Turkey Stuffing Meatballs (Printer-Friendly)

Tender turkey meatballs with stuffing, mushrooms, and cranberries baked golden with aromatic herbs and spices.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Produce

01 - 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms
02 - ½ cup finely chopped onion
03 - ½ cup finely chopped celery

→ Meats

04 - 1 pound ground turkey breast (lean, not extra lean)

→ Dry Ingredients

05 - ½ cup coarsely ground dry cornbread stuffing or cornmeal
06 - ¼ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened, plump)
07 - 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning blend
08 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
09 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
10 - ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Other

11 - 1 large egg

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Heat the oven to 375°F. Line a rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly oil to prevent sticking and facilitate cleanup.
02 - Finely chop mushrooms, onion, and celery. For an even finer texture that enhances moisture, pulse in a food processor.
03 - In a large bowl, gently mix ground turkey, chopped vegetables, stuffing or cornmeal, dried cranberries, egg, poultry seasoning, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper until just combined to avoid toughness.
04 - Using a small ice cream scoop or melon baller, shape meatballs approximately 1.5 inches in diameter. Arrange them about 1 inch apart on the prepared pan, ensuring they hold their shape while remaining moist.
05 - Bake uncovered for 18 to 22 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and they are golden brown on top.
06 - Serve the meatballs warm, optionally garnished with fresh parsley. Ideal with cranberry sauce for dipping or as is, perfect for appetizers or main dishes.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Finely chopping vegetables retains moisture, ensuring tender, juicy meatballs.
02 - Space meatballs evenly on the pan to promote even browning and cooking.
03 - Avoid overmixing to prevent dense texture.