If you are looking for a flavorful, comforting dish that brings together the best of holiday flavors in a fun, bite-sized form, the Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe is a must-try. This recipe combines tender ground turkey with savory stuffing, seasoned sausage, and a mix of aromatics to create juicy meatballs that bake to golden perfection. It’s a clever and delicious twist on classic stuffing, perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, and will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, yet essential ingredients come together effortlessly to create a tasty dish loaded with texture and flavor. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s the moisture from the broth, the seasoning from the sausage, or the richness added by butter and egg to bind everything perfectly.
- ½ cup yellow onion (minced): Adds sweetness and subtle crunch to the meatballs.
- 1 rib celery (very finely diced): Brings a fresh, aromatic bite that balances richness.
- ¾ cup chicken broth: Moisturizes the stuffing and infuses savory depth.
- ¼ cup water: Helps soften the stuffing mix for perfect texture.
- 4 tablespoons butter (divided): Adds richness and helps sauté the veggies.
- 1 (6 oz.) box turkey Stovetop stuffing: The flavorful base that makes these meatballs unique and hearty.
- 1 lb. ground turkey (85% lean): The lean protein core, keeping the meatballs juicy without heaviness.
- Salt/pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning that enhances all the flavors.
- ½ lb. ground sausage: Brings savory fat and spice for a perfectly balanced taste.
- 1 large egg (whisked): Acts as a binder, ensuring the meatballs hold together beautifully.
How to Make Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400° F – getting the heat set early ensures even cooking later on. A properly heated oven is key to achieving that perfect golden-brown exterior on your meatballs.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Melt half of the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then add the minced onions and finely diced celery. Sauté them gently, stirring frequently for about 5 to 6 minutes, until they soften and release their sweet and fresh aromas. This step builds a flavorful foundation for the stuffing.
Step 3: Cook the Stuffing Mix
Next, add the remaining butter, chicken broth, and water to the pan with your softened veggies. Bring this mixture to a boil before stirring in the turkey Stovetop stuffing. Lower the heat and stir continuously until the stuffing is fully incorporated and warmed through. Then, transfer the mixture to a large bowl to cool for 2 to 3 minutes – this makes it easier to combine with the meat without cooking the eggs prematurely.
Step 4: Combine Meat and Stuffing
Season your ground turkey with salt and pepper to taste, then add it along with the ground sausage and whisked egg to the stuffing mixture. Using your hands or a sturdy spoon, stir until everything is evenly incorporated. This mixture is what brings the turkey and stuffing magic together in every bite.
Step 5: Shape the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into meatballs about 1 ¾ inches in diameter. Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly. Place the meatballs on a lightly greased baking sheet (light-colored is best to monitor browning), spaced just enough apart to allow heat to circulate.
Step 6: Bake and Broil
Bake the meatballs in your preheated oven for 15 minutes. Once baked, switch your oven to broil at 450° F and broil the meatballs for an additional 2 minutes to get that beautiful, slightly crisp exterior. Keep a close eye during broiling so they don’t brown too much – the goal is golden, not burnt.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from heat and prepare to impress. These meatballs are warm, juicy, and bursting with flavor – almost like a holiday tradition reinvented. Serve them alongside classic comfort sides for a complete meal.
How to Serve Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnishes can elevate your Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe instantly. Fresh sprigs of rosemary, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, or a drizzle of warm gravy make the dish visually inviting and add layers of delightful flavor.
Side Dishes
These meatballs pair beautifully with mashed potatoes for creamy softness, tangy cranberry sauce to cut through the richness, and green beans for a crisp, fresh contrast. Together, they create a balanced plate reminiscent of cozy holiday dinners.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the plate: serve these meatballs on skewers as hearty appetizers at your next gathering, pile them atop a toasted baguette with melted cheese for a savory sandwich, or incorporate them into a cozy casserole layered with sauce and vegetables for a comforting twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover turkey and stuffing meatballs in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making for a convenient, ready-to-heat meal.
Freezing
You can easily freeze these meatballs for future meals. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your meatballs gently in the microwave or in a 350° F oven until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. If desired, add a little extra gravy or broth to keep them moist and flavorful during reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without sausage?
Absolutely! While the sausage adds great flavor and richness, you can omit it or replace it with extra ground turkey or a plant-based alternative if you prefer a lighter or different version. Just be mindful of adjusting the seasoning to keep the flavor balanced.
What type of stuffing mix is best to use?
Turkey Stovetop stuffing works wonderfully because it’s herb-infused and convenient, but you can experiment with other seasoned stuffing mixes if you like. Just make sure the flavors complement the turkey and sausage rather than overpower them.
Can I bake these meatballs ahead of time and warm them later?
Yes, baking the meatballs ahead and reheating them is a smart time-saver. Bake as directed, cool thoroughly, refrigerate, and then warm gently in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
Are these meatballs suitable for freezing?
Definitely! This recipe freezes beautifully, making it perfect for batch-cooking. Just freeze the uncooked meatballs for best texture upon cooking, or freeze cooked meatballs and reheat when needed.
Can I substitute ground turkey with chicken?
Yes, ground chicken can be used instead of turkey for a slightly different flavor but similar texture. Just ensure it’s well-seasoned as chicken tends to be milder in taste.
Final Thoughts
This Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe is a charming and delicious way to enjoy familiar, hearty flavors in a new, fun form. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, these meatballs are sure to become a beloved favorite. Don’t hesitate to give them a try – your taste buds will thank you!
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Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: 35 meatballs
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs combine lean ground turkey and savory sausage with flavorful Stovetop stuffing for a moist, tender, and delicious appetizer or main dish. Baked to perfection and finished under the broiler, they make a perfect accompaniment to classic holiday sides or a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- ½ cup yellow onion, minced
- 1 rib celery, very finely diced
Liquids & Fats
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup water
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
Meat & Protein
- 1 lb ground turkey (85% lean)
- ½ lb ground sausage (see notes)
- 1 large egg, whisked
Dry Ingredients
- 1 (6 oz.) box turkey Stovetop stuffing
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) to prepare for baking the meatballs.
- Cook vegetables in butter. Melt half the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced onion and finely diced celery. Sauté, stirring frequently, for 5-6 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add liquids and stuffing. Pour in the remaining butter, chicken broth, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then stir in the turkey Stovetop stuffing. Reduce heat to low and stir until fully combined. Remove from heat and transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Allow to cool for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine meat and stuffing mix. Season ground turkey with salt and pepper, then add it to the bowl with the stuffing mixture. Add the ground sausage and whisked egg. Stir everything together until evenly combined to create your meatball mixture.
- Form meatballs. Roll the mixture into 1 ¾-inch meatballs, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a lightly greased, light-colored baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Bake and broil. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then switch the oven to broil at 450°F (232°C) and broil the meatballs for an additional 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent over-browning.
- Serve. Remove the meatballs from the oven and serve immediately. They pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, and cranberry sauce for a complete meal.
Notes
- Ground sausage adds moisture and flavor; you can substitute with ground pork or eliminate for a leaner option.
- Use a light-colored baking sheet to help monitor browning during broiling.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference before cooking.
- These meatballs freeze well for up to 3 months; thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
