Irresistible Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs with Herb Rice

Name: Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs with Herb Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground turkey; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned); 1 large egg; 1 tsp garlic powder; 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium); 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or high-quality store-bought); 1 cup long-grain rice (white or brown); 2 cups water (for cooking rice); 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped

Recipe By:

Ruth

Posted:

December 14, 2025

Updated:

December 14, 2025

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Sometimes, life calls for a little culinary magic, and what better way to sprinkle that magic than with Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs with Herb Rice? Imagine succulent turkey meatballs, perfectly glazed in a sweet-tart cranberry sauce that dances on your taste buds while fluffy herb rice is the perfect companion. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?”

This dish isn’t just food; it’s a feast for the senses and an experience that brings people together. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these meatballs are sure to steal the spotlight. Trust me when I say your taste buds will be throwing a celebration!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
The sweet and tangy glaze creates an irresistible flavor profile
Vibrant colors make this dish visually stunning and inviting
They’re versatile enough for meal prep or serving at parties

I remember the first time I served these turkey meatballs at a family gathering. My cousin, who usually claims he only eats pizza, went back for seconds! Seeing everyone enjoying them made my heart swell.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Turkey: Use lean ground turkey for juicy meatballs without excessive fat. Freshness matters, so check the sell-by date.
Cranberry Sauce: Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought sauce to ensure rich flavor and texture.
Breadcrumbs: Plain or seasoned breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs while adding texture. Avoid stale ones!
Eggs: Use one large egg to help hold everything together without overpowering the flavors.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness and color; opt for bright green leaves for best flavor.
Garlic Powder: Adds depth of flavor; I prefer garlic powder over fresh for a subtle kick.
Soy Sauce: A splash enhances umami and balances sweetness in the glaze; low-sodium is best.
Rice: Long-grain white or brown rice pairs beautifully with herb flavors; rinse before cooking for fluffiness.
Herbs (Thyme & Rosemary): Fresh herbs elevate the rice; use finely chopped leaves for maximum flavor impact.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs with Herb Rice

How to Make Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs with Herb Rice

Prepare Your Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, soy sauce, and chopped parsley until well blended but not overworked.

Form Those Lovable Meatballs: With damp hands (to prevent sticking), shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Make That Glorious Glaze: While meatballs bake, heat cranberry sauce over medium heat in a saucepan until it simmers gently. Stir occasionally to keep it smooth—nobody wants chunky glaze!

Toss It All Together!: Once the meatballs are done baking, toss them carefully in the warm cranberry glaze until evenly coated.

Fluff Up That Herb Rice: Meanwhile, cook rice according to package instructions. Once done, stir in chopped thyme and rosemary before serving alongside those gorgeous meatballs.

Now you have Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs with Herb Rice ready to impress! Serve hot and watch as everyone dives in like it’s their last meal! Enjoy every bite!

You Must Know

The secret to perfect cranberry-glazed turkey meatballs lies in balancing flavors
Opt for fresh herbs and high-quality turkey for the best results
The sweet-tart glaze adds a delightful zing that complements the savory meatballs perfectly, making them irresistible at any gathering

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the turkey and seasonings first. Form meatballs, then bake until they’re golden before glazing them to lock in flavor.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding chopped spinach or grated carrots to the meatball mixture for extra nutrition and color. Experiment with different herbs for unique flavor profiles.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, ensuring they warm through without drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For juicier meatballs, don’t overmix the turkey; gentle hands mean tender bites
Use a spoon or ice cream scoop for uniform sizes
Finally, let them rest after baking for maximum flavor absorption

Creating these cranberry-glazed turkey meatballs has become a family favorite during holidays. They always get rave reviews and disappear faster than you can say “second helping.”

FAQ

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well but may result in slightly different flavor and texture.

How long do these meatballs last in the fridge?

They can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.

What sides pair well with cranberry-glazed turkey meatballs?

Serve with herb rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal experience.

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