Name: Savory Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs with Gravy Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Turkey (Lean and hearty); 1 large Eggs (Essential for binding); 1 teaspoon Granulated Garlic (Adds savory flavor); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust according to taste); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground); 1 medium Onion (Grated or minced); 1 cup Stuffing Mix (Secret to classic flavors); 1 tablespoon Butter (For searing); 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (Prevents sticking); 2 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth (Flavorful base); 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme (Enhances flavors); 2 tablespoons Flour (Thickening agent)

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The aroma of Thanksgiving wafted through my kitchen as I prepared a batch of Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs with Gravy. It felt like a delightful time capsule, transporting me right back to those cozy family gatherings. These scrumptious meatballs combine the wholesome flavors of ground turkey with the comforting essence of stuffing, making them a crowd-pleaser for any busy weeknight dinner. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they also provide a hearty yet lighter alternative to traditional meatballs, paired with a rich homemade gravy that takes just minutes to whip up. Whether you’re craving that festive flavor or simply looking to elevate your dinner routine, these meatballs are bound to become a favorite in your home. Curious how to bring the taste of Thanksgiving to your table all year round? Let’s get cooking!

Why Are Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Amazing?

Flavorful Fusion: These meatballs blend ground turkey with savory stuffing, delivering that holiday taste anytime you crave it.

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, they require minimal prep and cook time.

Hearty and Wholesome: With 31g of protein per serving, they’re a satisfying option without the heaviness of traditional meatballs.

Versatile Pairing: Enjoy them with cranberry sauce, or serve over mashed potatoes for a comforting meal that pleases everyone.

Make Ahead: Cooked meatballs store well for 5 days and freeze beautifully, ensuring you always have a delicious dinner ready.

Elevate your family dinners with these delightful Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs with Gravy that are sure to impress!

Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs With Gravy Ingredients

For the Meatballs
• Ground Turkey – Lean and hearty, a healthier alternative to beef that still packs a punch.
• Eggs – Essential for binding the mixture while keeping the meatballs moist.
• Granulated Garlic – Adds a deep, savory flavor; fresh garlic is a great substitute for a stronger kick.
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors; opt for kosher salt and adjust according to taste.
• Black Pepper – Freshly ground elevates taste; try adding more for a spicy kick.
• Onion – Grated or minced, it brings moisture and sweetness; shallots are a mild alternative.
• Stuffing Mix – The secret to those classic Thanksgiving flavors; swap with homemade herb bread cubes for customization.

For the Cooking
• Butter – Used for searing the meatballs and making the gravy; olive oil is a lighter option.
• Olive Oil – Prevents sticking and adds richness; any cooking oil works too.

For the Gravy
• Low Sodium Chicken Broth – The flavorful base for the gravy; vegetable broth can be used for a lighter dish.
• Dried Thyme – This herb enhances flavors, but fresh thyme can bring in a brighter taste.
• Flour – A thickening agent for the gravy; gluten-free flour works for a gluten-free variant.

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating delicious Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs with Gravy that are perfect for any occasion! Happy cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs With Gravy

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs cook evenly and completely. While the oven heats up, gather all your ingredients and cooking equipment, so you’re ready for each step.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, crumble the ground turkey and then add the eggs, seasoning ingredients like salt, pepper, and granulated garlic, along with the finely minced onion and stuffing mix. Mix everything well until fully combined, ensuring each ingredient is evenly distributed for flavorful meatballs.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Using your hands or an ice cream scoop, form uniform meatballs from the mixture, aiming for about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Uniformity will help ensure that the Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs cook evenly and have the same delightful texture throughout. Place them on a baking sheet as you work.

Step 4: Sear the Meatballs
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of butter along with a drizzle of olive oil. Once the butter is foamy, sear the meatballs in batches, allowing them to brown for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step adds delicious flavor and texture to the meatballs.

Step 5: Cook with Broth and Thyme
After searing, return all the meatballs to the skillet and pour in the low sodium chicken broth. Add dried thyme and any remaining butter, gently stirring to combine. Let this simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb some of the broth flavor before moving to the next step.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake the meatballs for approximately 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures that your Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs are fully cooked while remaining juicy and tender.

Step 7: Prepare the Gravy
Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the skillet and keep them warm. To make the gravy, use the cooking liquid left in the skillet. Whisk in a mix of butter and flour over medium heat, slowly incorporating the cooking liquid until a smooth gravy forms.

Step 8: Thicken and Serve
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. If you prefer a smoother gravy, strain it before serving. Pour the rich gravy over your Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs and enjoy the delicious, comforting meal!

How to Store and Freeze Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs With Gravy

Fridge: Store cooked Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Ensure they cool completely before refrigeration to maintain moisture.

Freezer: Freeze meatballs individually on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months, keeping the flavors intact.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth to keep them moist. Alternatively, microwave until heated through.

Airtight Guidelines: Always ensure your meatballs are stored in airtight containers to prevent freezer burn and retain the delicious flavors of the homemade gravy.

What to Serve with Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs with Gravy

Picture a cozy gathering where flavors blend seamlessly into one delightful meal, inviting laughter and warmth around the dinner table.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky and rich, they soak up the savory gravy, creating a comforting duo that brings everyone back for seconds.
Cranberry Sauce: The sweet-tart contrast perfectly balances the savory meatballs, adding a festive flair that brightens the whole dish.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy exterior and tender interior bring a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that complements the moist meatballs wonderfully.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, it makes the perfect vehicle for scooping up those delectable meatballs and gravy.
Green Bean Almondine: With a light sauté of garlic and crunch from toasted almonds, this dish adds a fresh and vibrant touch to your plate.
Maple-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, the caramelized edges of these carrots enhance the savory notes of the meatballs, adding an irresistible flavor.
Apple Pie: Finish your meal on a sweet note with this classic dessert; its warm spices echo the comforting flavors of Thanksgiving.
Sparkling Apple Cider: For a refreshing drink, this bubbly option perfectly marries with the meal’s comforting essence, making it festive yet simple.

Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize these Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs with Gravy to suit your taste!

Ground Chicken: Swap out ground turkey for ground chicken for a lighter take while still enjoying tender meatballs.
Homemade Stuffing: Use homemade herb-seasoned bread cubes instead of boxed stuffing mix for a personal touch and added flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the meat mixture for a delightful heat that will warm your soul!
Vegetarian Version: Replace turkey with finely chopped mushrooms or lentils and use veggie broth for a hearty, meat-free alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar into the meatball mixture for a melty, cheesy twist.

Enhance your meal by serving these meatballs with cranberry sauce, alongside the comforting goodness of mashed potatoes, or try them in a nourishing bowl with a drizzle of tahini yogurt. You can also explore options like Bowl Tahini Yogurt to elevate your dining experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs with Gravy are fantastic for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking, making them just as flavorful when you finally serve them. Simply mix your meatball ingredients and form them, then store in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze formed meatballs for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy, follow the cooking steps as usual, and they will still turn out juicy and tender, delivering that comforting Thanksgiving flavor with ease.

Tips for the Best Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs

Uniform Size: Ensure meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking, preventing some from being undercooked while others are overdone.

Sear in Batches: Avoid overcrowding your skillet while searing to maintain shape and achieve a golden brown crust on your Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs.

Use an Ice Cream Scoop: For perfectly sized meatballs, utilize an ice cream scoop. This not only saves time but also ensures consistency.

Adjust Gravy Thickness: For a thicker gravy, increase the flour in your roux. If it’s too thick, simply add more broth to reach desired consistency.

Turkey Quality: Choose lean ground turkey for a lighter dish while still packing in flavor. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices or herb variations for distinct tastes.

Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs With Gravy Recipe FAQs

What kind of ground turkey should I use for the meatballs?
I recommend using lean ground turkey for the best flavor and texture without all the grease. Ground turkey breast has the least fat, making it a great option if you’re looking to keep it light!

How can I tell if my turkey is fresh enough for the recipe?
Fresh ground turkey should have a light pink color and no dark spots. Always check the sell-by date on the packaging, and avoid any turkey that looks dull or has an off smell.

How should I store leftover Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs?
Store your cooked Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure they are completely cool before sealing them, which helps preserve their moisture and flavor.

Can I freeze Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the meatballs out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, you can thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat them in a skillet.

How can I adjust the gravy if it’s too thick?
No worries! If your gravy turns out thicker than you’d like, simply whisk in a bit more low sodium chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Additionally, make sure to simmer it gently for maximum flavor without losing that lovely smooth texture.

Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider?
Yes, if you’re cooking for anyone with food allergies, be cautious! This recipe contains eggs, and gluten due to the stuffing mix and flour for the gravy. For a gluten-free version, you can opt for gluten-free stuffing mix and substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend. Additionally, you can leave out any spices that might trigger allergies.