Imagine transforming your traditional holiday flavors into a mouthwatering, easy-to-make dish that will have everyone asking for seconds! These Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs are about to revolutionize your meal prep, combining the classic comfort of Thanksgiving stuffing with the lean, protein-packed goodness of ground turkey. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving those nostalgic holiday tastes without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is a game-changer that brings gourmet flavor to your dinner table in just 40 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup stuffing mix
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, stuffing mix, finely chopped onion, and finely chopped celery.
- Crack the egg into the mixture and use your hands or a fork to thoroughly blend all ingredients until well combined. Ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture.
- Using clean hands, shape the mixture into uniform meatballs approximately
- 5 inches in diameter. This should yield about 18-20 meatballs.
- Place the formed meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove from oven and let the meatballs rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot with your choice of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Mix Gently: When combining ingredients, use a light touch to prevent the meatballs from becoming tough. Overmixing can make the meat dense and dry.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Moisture Matters: If the mixture seems too dry, add a tablespoon of chicken broth to keep the meatballs juicy.
- Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop or weigh each meatball to ensure even cooking and consistent results.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These meatballs can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking, making them perfect for meal prep.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with cranberry sauce, gravy, or a light herb sauce to enhance the Thanksgiving-inspired flavor profile.
- Freezer-Friendly: These meatballs freeze beautifully for up to 3 months, making them a convenient make-ahead meal option.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 85mg
