Ingredients
Scale
For the Turkey Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for holiday warmth)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning)
For the Cranberry Maple Glaze:
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves (optional for a holiday touch)
For the Butternut Squash Mash:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash Mash
- Cook the squash: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the cubed butternut squash and cook for about 10-12 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the water and return the squash to the pot.
- Mash the squash: Using a potato masher or immersion blender, mash the squash until smooth and lump-free. Add the butter, milk, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until the butter melts and the mash is creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste. Cover the pot to keep warm.
Step 2: Make the Turkey Meatballs
- Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, and cinnamon (if using). Mix thoroughly using your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Shape the meatballs: Scoop about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the turkey mixture at a time and roll into small, even meatballs. You should have about 18-20 meatballs, depending on the size.
- Brown the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches (avoid overcrowding the pan). Brown the meatballs on all sides, cooking for about 4-5 minutes per side. They do not need to be fully cooked through at this point as they will finish cooking in the glaze. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a plate.
Step 3: Make the Cranberry Maple Glaze
- Prepare the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes).
- Simmer the meatballs: Add the browned meatballs back into the skillet with the glaze. Gently toss the meatballs in the glaze until they are fully coated. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook for another 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are cooked through and the glaze has thickened and caramelized onto the meatballs.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Plate the mash: Spoon a generous portion of the butternut squash mash onto each plate.
- Add the meatballs: Place 4-5 glazed turkey meatballs over the mash.
- Drizzle with extra glaze: For added flavor and presentation, drizzle some of the extra cranberry maple glaze over the top.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: If desired, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Serve: Serve the meatballs hot, ideally with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad to complete the meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sodium: 480mg
- Protein: 18g