Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Maple Dijon Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 10 reviews

These Maple Dijon Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze are a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors, perfect for a cozy meal or entertaining guests. Ground turkey meatballs are seasoned with Dijon mustard, garlic, and maple syrup, then baked to golden perfection. The meatballs are tossed in a tangy cranberry glaze infused with apple cider vinegar and fresh herbs, creating a glossy, flavorful coating that complements the tender meat perfectly.

  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • ⅓ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Spray oil

For the Cranberry Glaze:

  • ¾ cup cranberry sauce
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • Pinch of salt
  • A few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Make the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep the meatballs tender.
  3. Form the meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the meatballs with oil to help with browning.
  4. Bake the meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. Prepare the cranberry glaze: While the meatballs bake, in a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the cranberry sauce, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs. Let the mixture simmer for 5 to 6 minutes until it becomes glossy and slightly thickened.
  6. Coat the meatballs and serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven and toss them in the warm cranberry glaze until fully coated. Serve immediately, garnished with extra glaze and fresh thyme or rosemary for added aroma and visual appeal.

Notes

  • Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for the best flavor in the glaze, but dried herbs can be substituted if needed.
  • Ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee they are safely cooked.
  • This recipe can be doubled easily for larger gatherings.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
  • Meatballs can be prepared ahead and reheated in the oven or a skillet before glazing.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American