Save it
Can't wait to tell you about my twist on holiday eating - these Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs! After hosting tons of friendsgiving parties, I came up with these tasty bites that pack all those warm holiday flavors we crave. Think of them as the tastiest parts of your Thanksgiving meal wrapped up in perfect little balls.
What Makes This Dish Special
These meatballs have turned into my go-to party food! They deliver all that yummy turkey flavor in bite-sized form. My friends always ask me how to make them. And guess what? They give you that Swedish meatball feel but with holiday flair that works amazingly with your usual Thanksgiving fixings.
What You'll Need for Thanksgiving Turkey Meatballs
- Ground Dark Meat Turkey: Our main player - dark meat makes them super juicy.
- Ground Pork: My trick for getting softer, tastier meatballs.
- Fresh Herbs: Sage, thyme and oregano remind me of old-fashioned stuffing.
- Mirepoix: Celery, carrots and shallots working together for rich flavor.
- Panko Bread Crumbs: They help keep everything light and fluffy.
- Lemon Zest: A tiny bit adds unexpected freshness.
- Heavy Cream and Eggs: These make sure your meatballs stay moist.
- Turkey or Chicken Stock: The base for that amazing holiday sauce.
Creating Your Holiday Masterpiece
- Cook Your Veggies First
- Melt some butter and cook those veggies until they're soft. Your kitchen will smell like Thanksgiving already! Give them about 6-8 minutes, then toss in those fresh herbs.
- Combine Everything
- After your veggie mix cools down, add your meats, spices and binding stuff. I mix with my hands but don't overdo it or they'll get tough!
- Form and Cool
- A ⅓ cup scoop makes perfect-sized meatballs. Stick them in the freezer for 15 minutes so they don't fall apart later.
- Get Cooking
- Brown them in hot oil, then let them finish in the rich stock. Your house will smell amazing!
- Create Your Sauce
- That gravy is everything! Start with butter and flour, then slowly add your cooking liquid. A little lemon juice at the end makes everything taste better.
Storage Tips
These meatballs stay good in the fridge for several days, making them great for leftover meals! Just warm them up on the stove or in your microwave when you want them. They freeze really well too, so I usually make extra just to have some ready to go.
Pro Advice
I've made these so many times and learned a few things. Don't skip the frying part, it adds tons of flavor! Be careful with your measurements and remember, cooling them before cooking really helps them stay together.
Answers to Your Questions
- Plan ahead: You can form these up to two days before you cook them.
- Not holding together? Check your wet to dry balance and mix gently.
- Don't want to fry? A good sear in a pan works great too!
Freezer Ready
I always keep some of these in my freezer! Brown them first, then freeze them on a tray until hard. Put them in a freezer bag and you've got quick holiday flavor whenever you want it.
What Goes Well With These
These meatballs taste amazing with creamy mashed potatoes and tangy cranberry sauce. Throw in some roasted vegetables or a green salad and you've got a complete holiday-inspired meal!
Customize It
Don't be afraid to change things up! Sometimes I use only turkey or try different herbs. Need gluten free? Almond flour works instead of panko. You can really make this recipe your own.
Seasonal Joy
These meatballs have become a key part of how I celebrate the holidays. When I serve them with my creamy mascarpone mashed potatoes and homemade cranberry sauce, they help create wonderful memories around my dinner table.
Save it
Common Questions
- → Can I prepare the meatballs early?
Totally! You can shape the meatballs and store them in the fridge (covered) for up to two days. Fry and finish cooking them fresh on the day you serve.
- → Is frying the only option?
Nope, pan-frying works just fine with a drizzle of oil. It might take a bit longer to braise after, but you'll get the same golden crust.
- → Why use pork with turkey?
Pork makes the meatballs juicier and more flavorful since turkey can be a little dry on its own.
- → Can I store these in the freezer?
Of course! Freeze the uncooked meatballs for up to three months. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight before you fry or cook them.
- → What pairs well with these?
Go for classic Thanksgiving sides like mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, roasted veggies, or even some stuffing.