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Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs

Delicious Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs for Cozy Nights

Try these Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs for a healthy, delicious dinner that brings the essence of autumn to your table.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chill Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Turkey Lean protein base; chicken works great as a substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Apple Cider Provides moisture and natural sweetness; don’t confuse it with cider vinegar.
  • 1/2 cup Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs Binds the mixture while adding fiber; use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 large Egg Essential for holding the meatball texture together.
  • 1/2 medium Onion Finely diced, it adds aromatic depth to the dish.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced garlic certainly amps up the flavor!
  • 1 tsp Cinnamon Brings warmth and hints of autumn to the meatballs.
  • 1/4 tsp Nutmeg A pinch enhances cozy flavors beautifully.
  • 1/4 tsp Allspice Complements the fall spices for a unique twist.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Sage Gives a fresh, bright flavor; dried works too in smaller amounts.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Thyme Herbaceous goodness that enhances the dish; use dried if fresh is unavailable.
For the Glaze
  • 2 tbsp Maple Syrup Adds sweetness that balances the savory elements.
  • 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard Provides tang for an exciting glaze.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Skillet
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

Directions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, apple cider, whole wheat breadcrumbs, egg, diced onion, minced garlic, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, fresh sage, and thyme. Use your hands to gently mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix. Set the mixture aside for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  2. Using a small scoop or your hands, portion the mixture into equal-sized meatballs, about 1–1.5 inches in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on a parchment-lined tray and chill in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes.
  3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the meatballs in a single layer and sear for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown on the outside and cooked through, at an internal temperature of 165°F.
  4. Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the skillet. Reduce heat to medium and pour in 1 cup of apple cider. Add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Stir and simmer until the glaze thickens slightly, about 3–5 minutes.
  5. Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet with the glaze, gently tossing to coat them evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  6. Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving platter and serve hot, ideally with seasonal sides like roasted vegetables or quinoa.

Nutrition

Serving: 4meatballsCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Avoid overmixing for tender meatballs. Refrigerate meatballs before cooking for better shape retention.

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