Christmas Stuffed Turkey Meatball Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 4 ounces cubed stuffing (prepared or from a box mix)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Shape the turkey mixture into approximately 12-16 meatballs.
4. Using your thumb, create a small well in the center of each meatball.
5. Fill each well with about 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce and 1 teaspoon of stuffing. Gently reshape the meatball to enclose the filling.
6. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
7. Brown the meatballs on all sides in the skillet, about 5-7 minutes total. They don’t need to be cooked through at this point.
8. Pour chicken broth into the skillet around the meatballs.
9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
A Festive Twist on a Classic
This Christmas Stuffed Turkey Meatball Skillet is a delightful dish. It is perfect for a cozy holiday gathering. Forget slaving over a whole turkey. This recipe captures all the traditional flavors in a fun, easy-to-eat format.
### Why This Recipe Works
The combination of savory turkey meatballs with sweet cranberry sauce and stuffing is a holiday dream. The skillet format simplifies cooking and cleanup. Browning the meatballs before baking adds extra flavor and texture. The chicken broth keeps the meatballs moist and creates a light sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatball skillet as an appetizer. Or make it a main course with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. A simple green salad would also complement the richness of the dish. Consider offering extra cranberry sauce for dipping.
From Thanksgiving Leftovers to Christmas Delight
Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a brand-new Christmas creation. This recipe is a fantastic way to use leftover cranberry sauce and stuffing. It gives them a delicious, second life.
### Adapting the Recipe for Leftovers
If using leftover turkey, finely chop it and incorporate it into the meatball mixture. Adjust the breadcrumbs accordingly. If your stuffing is already seasoned, reduce or eliminate the Italian seasoning in the meatball mixture. Using leftover cranberry sauce adds an extra layer of flavor.
### Making it Ahead of Time
You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time. Store them uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Or freeze them for longer storage. If freezing, thaw completely before baking. The cranberry sauce and stuffing filling can also be prepped in advance. Simply assemble the meatballs just before cooking.
Customizing Your Meatball Skillet
Make this recipe your own with a few simple swaps and additions. Tailor it to your family’s tastes. Consider dietary restrictions or preferences.
### Swapping Out Ingredients
Ground chicken can be used instead of ground turkey. If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based ground meat substitute. Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth.
### Adding Extra Flavors
Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the stuffing for extra texture. A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the finished skillet adds a touch of sweetness and tang. Toasted pine nuts would also make a delicious garnish. You can also add a layer of cheese to the meatballs before adding to the oven.
Tips for Perfect Turkey Meatballs
Achieving tender, juicy turkey meatballs is easier than you think. Follow these simple tips for guaranteed success. Avoid dry, crumbly results.
### Keeping Meatballs Moist
Don’t overmix the meatball mixture. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Use a light hand when combining the ingredients. Ensure the breadcrumbs are moistened by the egg and other ingredients. Add a little extra chicken broth or milk if the mixture seems dry.
### Preventing Sticking
Use a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast iron skillet to prevent the meatballs from sticking. You can also line the skillet with parchment paper. Be sure to use enough oil to coat the bottom of the skillet. This helps the meatballs brown evenly.
### Ensuring Even Cooking
Make sure the meatballs are uniform in size. This ensures they cook evenly. Use a cookie scoop or measuring spoon to portion the meatball mixture. Avoid overcrowding the skillet when browning the meatballs. Work in batches if necessary.
Serving Your Christmas Meatball Skillet
Presentation matters. Here are some ideas to elevate your Christmas Meatball Skillet. It will wow your guests.
### Plating Suggestions
Serve the meatballs directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation. Or transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Arrange the meatballs around a bowl of mashed potatoes for a visually appealing presentation.
### Drink Pairings
Pair the meatball skillet with a light-bodied red wine. A Pinot Noir or Beaujolais would complement the flavors nicely. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling cranberry juice or apple cider. A festive holiday cocktail, such as a cranberry mimosa, would also be a great choice.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time and freeze it?
Yes, you can assemble the meatballs and freeze them before baking. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. You can also bake the meatballs and freeze them. Reheat them in the oven or microwave.
Can I use different types of breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can use plain, seasoned, or even gluten-free breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs will give the meatballs a crispier texture. Adjust the seasoning accordingly if using seasoned breadcrumbs.
How long will leftovers last?
Leftover meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I use store-bought stuffing?
Yes, you can use store-bought stuffing mix. Prepare it according to the package directions. Then use it to fill the meatballs.
Can I add cheese to the meatballs?
Yes, you can add cheese to the meatballs. Incorporate shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone into the meatball mixture.
