My Turkey Stuffing Meatballs with Herbed Gravy offer a delightful twist on classic Thanksgiving flavors. These turkey meatballs, made with savory stuffing mix and fresh herbs, are perfectly seasoned and baked to a golden brown perfection. Paired with a rich and flavorful herbed gravy, this dish brings the comforting taste of holiday season meals right to your table. Ideal for a cozy family dinner or a special holiday treat, these turkey stuffing meatballs are both easy to prepare and impressively delicious. Enjoy the taste of Thanksgiving in every bite!
I’ve always loved the comforting flavors of Thanksgiving, and these Turkey Stuffing Meatballs bring that holiday warmth into everyday meals. I was inspired to create this recipe because I wanted to find a fun and easy way to enjoy classic stuffing flavors without waiting for the big holiday. Using a combination of lean turkey and herbed stuffing mix, these juicy meatballs are not only flavorful but also a healthier option. The homemade herbed gravy is the perfect finishing touch, adding richness and depth. This recipe is special to me because it captures the essence of Thanksgiving dinner and brings it to the table anytime you need a little holiday cheer. I hope you find it as comforting and delicious as I do!
Be sure to check out some of my other meatball recipes like Sicilian Meatballs, Turkey Meatballs with Red Pepper Sauce, Easy Ground Beef Meatballs, Chicken Breast Stuffed with Stuffing and my Turkey Swedish Meatballs.
This recipe is great served with my Chorizo Cornbread Stuffing.
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🌟 Why You'll Love this Recipe
- Classic Flavors Made Easy! With just a few simple ingredients and a straightforward process, these turkey stuffing meatballs are incredibly easy to make. You can find everything you need at your local grocery store, and the recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
- Holiday Comfort Anytime! These meatballs capture all the delicious flavors of Thanksgiving stuffing in a convenient, bite-sized form. Paired with herbed gravy, this dish brings the warmth and satisfaction of a holiday feast to any day of the year.
- Healthy and Flavorful! Made with lean ground turkey and seasoned with fresh herbs, these meatballs are a lighter yet flavorful twist on traditional stuffing. The homemade herbed gravy adds an extra layer of richness without being overly heavy, making it a great choice for a nutritious and delicious meal.
🥘 Ingredients
Meatballs
- Olive Oil – Olive oil is used to sauté the onion and garlic, adding a rich, subtle flavor to the base of the meatballs. It helps soften the vegetables and provides a smooth texture to the mixture.
- Yellow Onion – Finely diced yellow onion brings sweetness and depth to the turkey meatballs. When sautéed, it caramelizes slightly, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- Garlic – Minced garlic adds a pungent, aromatic quality to the meatballs, complementing the savory ingredients and contributing to the depth of flavor.
- Classic Herbed Stuffing Mix – This mix provides the classic dry stuffing mix texture and flavor, adding a blend of herbs and spices that infuse the meatballs with traditional stuffing tastes. You can also use leftover stuffing to make Thanksgiving meatballs.
- Fat-Free Chicken Broth or Chicken Stock – Chicken broth is used to rehydrate the stuffing mix, giving it the right consistency and infusing it with a savory flavor that ties the meatballs together.
- Ground Turkey Breast – Lean ground turkey is the main protein in these meatballs, offering a healthier alternative to higher-fat meats while still being juicy and flavorful.
- Egg – Beaten egg acts as a binder, helping to hold the turkey mixture together and ensuring the meatballs stay intact during baking.
- Salt – Salt enhances the natural flavors of the meatballs and ensures they are well-seasoned.
- Poultry Seasoning – This blend of spices adds a distinctive herby flavor to the meatballs, reminiscent of classic stuffing. It typically includes sage, thyme, and marjoram.
- Fresh Parsley (Optional) – Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness, brightening up the meatballs with a touch of herbaceous flavor.
Herbed Gravy
- Butter – Butter is the base of the gravy, providing a rich, creamy texture and a savory foundation for the herbs and seasonings.
- Salt – Salt is used to season the gravy, enhancing the flavors of the chicken broth and the herbs.
- Black Pepper – Black pepper adds a bit of heat and complexity to the gravy, balancing out the richness of the butter.
- Sage Leaves – Chopped sage leaves bring a warm, earthy flavor that complements the stuffing and turkey meatballs, adding depth to the gravy.
- Rosemary – Fresh rosemary adds a fragrant, piney note that pairs well with the other herbs and adds a robust flavor to the gravy.
- Garlic – Minced garlic adds a savory, aromatic quality to the gravy, enhancing the overall taste.
- Chicken Broth – Chicken broth forms the bulk of the gravy, providing a savory liquid base that absorbs the flavors of the herbs and spices.
- Cornstarch – Cornstarch is used to thicken the gravy, giving it a smooth, velvety texture. It’s mixed with water to form a slurry before being added to the simmering broth.
See recipe card for quantities.
🔪Step by Step Instructions
Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a pan, sauté 1 cup onion and 2 cloves garlic in 1 teaspoon olive oil until soft, about 5 mintues.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl combine 1 ½ cups of classic herbed stuffing mix and ½ cup of chicken broth. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to rehydrate, then lightly mash wi´th a fork to break up any large chunks.
To the large bowl with stuffing, add 1 pound of ground turkey, 1 beaten egg, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of poultry seasoning, 3 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley (if using) and the sautéd onion and garlic to the large mixing bowl. Gently mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Shape the mixture into 20 meatballs, each about 3 tablespoons in size. Place them on a prepared baking sheet, spacing them 1-2 inches apart.
Bake the Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Add foil or parchment paper to the sheet pan then spray with booking spray. Bake the meatballs for 14-16 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For extra browning, broil the meatballs for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Prepare the Herbed Gravy: In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, 1 tablespoon of chopped sage leaves, ½ teaspoon of chopped rosemary, and 1 minced garlic clove. Cook for about 2 minutes to release the flavors of the herbs and garlic.
Whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
To thicken the delicious gravy, mix 1 ½ tablespoons of cornstarch with a few drops of water to form a slurry. Pour this into the simmering broth while whisking continuously. Cook until the gravy has thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
Assemble and Serve: Place the baked turkey stuffing meatballs on a serving platter. Spoon the herbed gravy over the meatballs and serve immediately. Enjoy!
👩🏼🍳 Chef's Tip
- For perfectly tender and juicy turkey stuffing meatballs, avoid overmixing the turkey mixture. Combine the ingredients just until they are mixed together; overworking the mixture can result in tough meatballs.
📖 Substitutions & Variations
Different Meats – If you prefer a different protein, you can substitute the ground turkey with ground chicken or lean ground beef. Ground chicken will provide a similar texture with a milder flavor, while lean ground beef will give the meatballs a heartier taste. Adjust the cooking time as needed for different meats.
Different Stuffing Mix – To give your meatballs a unique twist, try using a different stuffing mix, like cornbread or savory herb stuffing. Cornbread stuffing will add a touch of sweetness and a crumbly texture, while savory herb stuffing will deepen the herbal notes of your meatballs. You can also try using bread crumbs but add accordingly since they will alter the texture and flavor of the turkey meatballs.
Add a Kick – For a bit more heat, you can mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small amount of hot sauce into the turkey mixture. This will add a subtle spicy kick without overpowering the dish.
Cheese – Adding a bit of shredded Parmesan cheese to the turkey mixture can enhance the flavor and add a nice salty, nutty element. Mix it in with the other ingredients before forming the meatballs for an extra layer of richness.
Vegetable Additions – You can incorporate finely chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, or celery, into the turkey mixture for added texture and flavor. Sauté the vegetables before adding them to the mixture to soften them and bring out their natural sweetness.
Garnish – For an added touch of freshness and flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the meatballs just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the herbal notes in the dish.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied Pinot Noir complements the savory turkey stuffing meatballs and herbed gravy recipe beautifully. For a white wine option, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay will work well, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Fresh Vegetables: Serve the turkey stuffing meatballs with a side of easy green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts. The crisp, tender vegetables add a vibrant color and a fresh, crunchy element to balance the meal.
Mashed Potatoes: Pair with a side of creamy mashed potatoes to make it a hearty, comforting meal. The smooth, buttery potatoes are perfect for soaking up any extra herbed gravy.
Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of store-bought or homemade cranberry sauce adds a tart and sweet contrast to the savory turkey meatballs. It’s a great way to bring in a touch of Thanksgiving flavor.
Crispy Bread: Accompany the meal with a slice of crusty bread, such as a baguette or sourdough. It’s ideal for sopping up any leftover gravy and adds a satisfying crunch to the meal. My butter rolls are also a great side option!
💭 Recipe FAQs
Yes, you can substitute ground beef or ground chicken for the ground turkey in this recipe. Keep in mind that different meats will affect the flavor and fat content of the meatballs. For a leaner option, you might choose ground chicken or even lean ground beef. Adjust the cooking times as necessary, especially if using a different type of meat.
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs up to a day in advance. After shaping the meatballs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake them. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
If the herbed gravy turns out too thick, simply whisk in a bit more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens up. You can also mix a small amount of cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the simmering gravy to help thicken it. Adjust the seasoning as needed after making any adjustments.
🥣 Storage & Reheating
Storage
- Meatballs: Allow the turkey stuffing meatballs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Gravy: Store the herbed gravy in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating
- Meatballs: To reheat, place the meatballs on a baking sheet and heat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, covered, in 1-minute intervals until hot. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry them out.
- Gravy: Reheat the gravy gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until it reaches the desired temperature. If it has thickened too much in the fridge, you can thin it out with a little bit of chicken broth. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until hot.
Freezing
- Gravy: Let the gravy cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a bit more chicken broth to adjust the consistency after freezing and reheating.
- Meatballs: Place cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
👩🏼🍳 Top Tips
Use Lean Ground Turkey: Opt for 93% lean ground turkey to keep the meatballs flavorful yet lean. The balance of fat helps the meatballs stay moist and tender without being overly greasy.
Monitor the Internal Temperature: Use an instant read thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F. This ensures they are cooked through and safe to eat while remaining juicy.
Broil for Extra Browning: If you prefer a more golden brown crust on the meatballs, use the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Let the Meatballs Rest: Allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making them even more flavorful and moist.
Adjust Gravy Thickness: If the herbed gravy becomes too thick, simply whisk in a bit more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it's too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken further.
🌿 Related Recipes
🥗 Pairing Recommendations
Did you make this recipe? Please leave a 5-star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating & comment below to let me know how it came out. Thanks for visiting!
📋 Recipe
Best Turkey Stuffing Meatballs with Herbed Gravy
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Equipment
- Small skillet
- Medium bowl
- Large mixing bowl
- Fork or clean hands
- Spoon or cookie dough scoop
- Baking sheet
- Meat Thermometer
- Fork or tongs
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 cup finely diced yellow onion
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 ½ cups classic herbed stuffing mix
- ½ cup fat-free chicken broth
- 1 lb 93% lean ground turkey
- 1 egg beaten
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- Optional: 3 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Gravy
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon sage leaves chopped
- ½ teaspoon rosemary chopped
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions
Meatballs
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or coat it with nonstick cooking spray.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until onions are translucent.
- Prepare Stuffing Mix: In a small bowl, combine the stuffing mix with chicken broth. Let it sit for 5 minutes to rehydrate. Lightly mash with a fork to break up any large chunks.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with the stuffing mixture, ground turkey, beaten egg, salt, poultry seasoning, and parsley (if using). Gently mix until just combined—avoid overmixing.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 20 meatballs, each about 3 tablespoons in size. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 1-2 inches apart.
- Bake: Cook for 14-16 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For extra browning, you can broil the meatballs for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Enjoy with herbed gravy.
Herbed Gravy
- Melt Butter: In a small saucepan, heat the butter over medium heat until fully melted.
- Add Herbs and Garlic: Stir in the salt, pepper, sage, rosemary, and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Add Broth: Whisk in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cook for 5 minutes. Reduce heat to a simmer.
- Thicken Gravy: In a small glass or bowl, mix the cornstarch with a few drops of water to form a slurry. Pour this into the simmering broth while whisking continuously. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the gravy has thickened.
- Serve: Remove from heat and transfer to a gravy bowl.
🌡️ Food safety
- Turkey - Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
- Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
- Wash hands after touching raw meat
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooking food unattended
- Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
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