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Smoky Paprika Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze

smoky paprika turkey meatballs - featured image

Tender turkey meatballs infused with smoky paprika and a touch of garlic, perfectly caramelized and coated in a tangy-sweet cranberry glaze. Perfect for holiday gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 minced garlic cloves
  • 1/4 cup (30g) finely chopped onion
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
  • 1 cup (240ml) cranberry sauce
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) honey
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid over-mixing.
  2. Using a cookie scoop or your hands, shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs—about 1-inch in diameter. You should get around 20-25 meatballs.
  3. Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  4. In a small saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, honey, fresh orange juice, and apple cider vinegar. Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently, until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
  5. Return the meatballs to the skillet and pour the cranberry glaze over them. Toss gently to coat each meatball evenly. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  6. Transfer the meatballs to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh parsley or orange zest for an extra pop of flavor and color.

Notes

[‘Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.’, ‘Sear the meatballs for flavor and a caramelized crust.’, ‘Use fresh ingredients for better taste.’, ‘If the cranberry glaze is too thick, add a splash of water or more orange juice to thin it out.’, ‘Ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey meatballs, cranberry glaze, smoky paprika, holiday recipe, easy dinner, meal prep, lean protein, healthy recipe