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Cranberry Maple Glazed Turkey Meatballs Over Squash Mash


  • Author: Imili Johnson
  • Total Time: 50 minutes

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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

  1. 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).
  2. 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

  1. Plate the mash: Spoon a generous portion of the butternut squash mash onto each plate.
  2. Add the meatballs: Place 4-5 glazed turkey meatballs over the mash.
  3. 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

  1. Garnish: If desired, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
  2. 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