Smoky Maple Turkey Meatballs Recipe with Cranberry Glaze

Name: Smoky Maple Turkey Meatballs Recipe with Cranberry Glaze
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko); 1 large egg; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 2 tbsp pure maple syrup; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup fresh or canned whole berry cranberry sauce; 2 tbsp pure maple syrup; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

Posted on November 3, 2025

smoky maple turkey meatballs - featured image

Introduction

The warm embrace of smoky maple turkey meatballs paired with a tangy cranberry glaze is like a holiday hug in every bite. I remember the first time I made these—it was a chilly November evening, and my goal was to create something comforting but fresh enough to stand out on the dinner table. That’s when the idea of combining smoky flavors with sweet maple and tart cranberry struck me. Let me tell you, they were an instant hit!

This recipe has become my go-to for gatherings and cozy family dinners. The turkey meatballs are succulent and packed with flavor, while the cranberry glaze adds the perfect balance of sweetness and tang. Whether you’re hosting a festive party or just craving something special, these meatballs are guaranteed to impress. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, and the ingredients are simple, wholesome, and readily available.

If you’re ready to take your meatball game to the next level, these smoky maple turkey meatballs with cranberry glaze are exactly what you need. Trust me—it’s impossible to stop at just one!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: These meatballs come together in under 45 minutes, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining.
Simple Ingredients: Everything you need can likely be found in your pantry or fridge—no fancy shopping trips required.
Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a holiday potluck or a casual game night, these meatballs are always a crowd-pleaser.
Smoky-Sweet Flavor: The combination of smoked paprika, maple syrup, and cranberry glaze creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Lean Protein: Made with ground turkey, these meatballs are a healthier alternative to traditional beef or pork meatballs.

What sets this recipe apart is the glaze—it’s not your basic ketchup-based sauce. The cranberry glaze is bold, vibrant, and the perfect complement to the smoky, maple-infused meatballs. It’s the kind of dish that makes you pause after the first bite and think, “Wow, this is really something special.” Plus, the recipe is forgiving, so you can adapt it to suit your needs without sacrificing its deliciousness.

Ingredients Needed

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground turkey: Lean ground turkey keeps the meatballs light yet flavorful.
Breadcrumbs: Regular or panko breadcrumbs add structure to the meatballs.
Egg: A single egg binds the mixture together.
Smoked paprika: The key to that irresistible smoky flavor.
Garlic powder: Adds depth and savory notes.
Maple syrup: Sweetness with a hint of richness—choose pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
Salt and pepper: Enhances and balances the flavors.
Olive oil: For cooking the meatballs (or use avocado oil if preferred).
For the cranberry glaze:

Fresh or canned cranberry sauce: Look for whole berry cranberry sauce for texture.
Maple syrup: Adds sweetness and complements the smoky flavor.
Apple cider vinegar: Balances the glaze with a touch of acidity.
Dijon mustard: For a subtle kick and creamy texture.

If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t worry! You can substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour for a gluten-free option or use honey instead of maple syrup if needed. You’ll still get delicious results.

Equipment Needed

smoky maple turkey meatballs preparation steps

Mixing bowls: One large bowl for the meatball mixture and one small bowl for the glaze.
Sheet pan: For baking the meatballs evenly.
Non-stick skillet: For browning the meatballs before baking (optional).
Measuring spoons and cups: Precision matters here!
Whisk: To mix the cranberry glaze into a smooth sauce.
Optional: A food thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked meatballs.

If you don’t have a skillet, you can bake the meatballs directly on the sheet pan—it may take a few minutes longer, but they’ll still turn out delicious.

Preparation Method

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, smoked paprika, garlic powder, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork it, or the meatballs may become tough.
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. You should get about 20-24 meatballs.
Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs for 2-3 minutes on each side. (This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.)
Transfer the browned meatballs to the prepared sheet pan and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
While the meatballs bake, prepare the cranberry glaze. In a small saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Cook over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to a serving dish and drizzle the cranberry glaze generously over them. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are a few tips to ensure your smoky maple turkey meatballs turn out perfectly:

Don’t overmix: Overworking the meatball mixture can make them dense and dry. Just mix until the ingredients are combined.
Browning adds flavor: While optional, searing the meatballs in a skillet before baking gives them a deeper, richer flavor.
Use a cookie scoop: For evenly sized meatballs that cook at the same rate, a cookie scoop is your best friend.
Taste the glaze: Before serving, taste and adjust the cranberry glaze to your liking. Add more maple syrup for sweetness or more vinegar for tang.

Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works for you. Even if something goes slightly off, you’ll still end up with a dish worth savoring!

Variations & Adaptations

Gluten-Free: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or gluten-free oats.
Low-Carb: Use a sugar-free maple syrup alternative and skip the cranberry glaze for a lighter dish.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the meatball mixture.
Vegetarian Option: Replace turkey with a plant-based ground meat substitute.
Seasonal Twist: Use pomegranate juice in the glaze for a festive variation during the holidays.

One of my personal favorites is adding a touch of orange zest to the cranberry glaze for a burst of citrusy flavor—it’s a game-changer!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These smoky maple turkey meatballs are best served warm, drizzled generously with cranberry glaze. Pair them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a party setting, serve them on a platter with toothpicks for easy eating.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat.

If you’d like to freeze them, store the meatballs and glaze separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as instructed before serving.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (4 meatballs):

Calories: 240
Protein: 18g
Carbs: 14g
Fat: 10g

Turkey is a lean source of protein, making these meatballs a healthier choice. Plus, the cranberry glaze is packed with antioxidants, while maple syrup provides natural sweetness without refined sugars. It’s a dish you can feel good about eating and serving!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s flavorful, versatile, and perfect for any occasion, these smoky maple turkey meatballs with cranberry glaze are the answer. They’re comforting yet elegant—ideal for everything from casual dinners to holiday gatherings.

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your adaptations, leave a comment below, or tag me on social media. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works well as a substitute, though the flavor might be slightly milder.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and glaze a day in advance. Store them separately and reheat before serving.

What can I use instead of cranberry sauce?

Pomegranate or cherry preserves can be a great alternative for a similar balance of sweetness and tartness.

Can I cook the meatballs entirely on the stovetop?

Yes, you can skip the oven and cook them in a skillet over medium heat. Just ensure they’re fully cooked (165°F/74°C internal temperature).

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely! The sweet and smoky flavors are usually a hit with kids. You can reduce the tanginess in the glaze if needed.

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smoky maple turkey meatballs recipe