Name: Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup yellow onion, minced; 1 rib celery, very finely diced; ¾ cup chicken broth; ¼ cup water; 4 tablespoons butter, divided; 1 (6 oz.) box turkey Stovetop stuffing; 1 lb. ground turkey (85% lean); Salt and pepper, to taste; ½ lb. ground sausage; 1 large egg, whisked

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 3.8 from 38 reviews

If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the best flavors of the holidays in a fresh and approachable way, then you’re going to adore this Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe. It’s a brilliant twist on traditional turkey and stuffing that turns these familiar favorites into convenient, bite-sized delights. Imagine juicy ground turkey mixed with classic stovetop stuffing, baked to perfection with a crispy golden finish—each meatball delivering a burst of savory warmth that’s perfect for dinner or game day. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or craving cozy weeknight fare, these meatballs hit all the right notes with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe relies on simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and satisfying texture. Each component plays a special role: from the aromatic onions and celery that soften to add a gentle sweetness, to the rich butter and broth that moisten the stuffing, and of course, the perfectly seasoned ground turkey and sausage that keep the meatballs juicy and flavorful.

Yellow onion (½ cup, minced): Adds a mild sweetness and depth to the stuffing mixture.
Celery (1 rib, finely diced): Provides a subtle crunch and freshness to balance the meat’s richness.
Chicken broth (¾ cup): Moistens the stuffing, infusing it with savory flavor.
Water (¼ cup): Helps soften the stuffing for perfect meatball texture.
Butter (4 tablespoons, divided): Adds richness and helps soften the aromatics and stuffing.
Turkey stovetop stuffing (1 box, 6 oz.): The heart of this recipe, bringing classic herb seasoning and texture.
Ground turkey (1 lb., 85% lean): The main protein, lean yet juicy and tender.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
Ground sausage (½ lb.): Adds a deliciously savory and slightly spicy kick, boosting the flavor profile.
Large egg (1, whisked): Acts as a binder to keep the meatballs together during cooking.

How to Make Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics and Stuffing

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to get it ready for baking. Melt half of the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Toss in the minced onions and finely diced celery, stirring frequently to soften them over 5 to 6 minutes. These softened veggies create a flavorful base and add moisture to the stuffing.

Step 2: Combine Butter, Broth, and Stuffing

Next, add the remaining butter, chicken broth, and water to the pan. Bring this mixture to a boil before stirring in the box of turkey stovetop stuffing. Reduce the heat to low and mix thoroughly to combine all the ingredients. This step ensures the stuffing is perfectly hydrated and full of flavor. Once combined, remove the pan from heat and transfer this mixture to a large bowl to cool slightly for a couple of minutes.

Step 3: Mix in the Proteins and Egg

Season your ground turkey with salt and pepper, then add it to the bowl with the stuffing. Layer in the ground sausage for extra richness and a hint of spice. Pour in the whisked egg, which helps hold everything together. Mix everything evenly until you have a uniform mixture, ensuring every bite of your Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe is equally delicious.

Step 4: Shape the Meatballs

Grab a tablespoon-sized amount and roll the mixture into meatballs about 1 ¾ inches in diameter. Place them on a lightly greased baking sheet, preferably light colored so you can monitor their browning. Even spacing allows for even cooking and browning later on.

Step 5: Bake and Broil the Meatballs

Bake your meatballs in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. This cooks them through perfectly. Then, raise the oven temperature to broil at 450 degrees Fahrenheit and broil the meatballs for 2 minutes. Keep a close eye on them during this step to avoid burning but still get a beautiful golden crust on the outside that adds great texture and flavor contrast.

How to Serve Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate your Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe beautifully. Fresh chopped parsley or thyme leaves add a pop of color and freshness. A light drizzle of gravy over the meatballs adds richness and a silky finish. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top gives a nice bite at the final moment.

Side Dishes

These meatballs pair perfectly with traditional sides that bring out their cozy, homestyle charm. Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic, soaking up every bit of meatball juices and any sauce you serve alongside. Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts offer a fresh contrast with a bit of crunch. Don’t forget a tart cranberry sauce to add a sweet and tangy note that cuts through the savory meat.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe on mini slider buns with a smear of cranberry mayo for a handheld holiday-inspired snack. Alternatively, serve them over buttered egg noodles tossed with fresh herbs for a hearty comfort meal. You can also stack them on skewers alongside vegetables and broil for delicious meatball kebabs that offer a party-ready presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Storing them properly helps maintain their moisture and flavor, making them perfect for quick lunches or easy dinner add-ons.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the cooked and cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last up to 3 months frozen. This makes for a fantastic ready-to-go meal option when you’re short on time.

Reheating

Reheat meatballs gently in a covered skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to keep them moist, or heat in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. You can also warm them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through to retain their texture and taste.

FAQs

Can I use all ground turkey instead of sausage in the Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe?

Absolutely! Using all ground turkey will make the meatballs leaner and milder in flavor. If you want to keep some richness, consider adding herbs like sage or a pinch of red pepper flakes to boost the taste.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the regular stovetop stuffing for a gluten-free version, which many brands offer. Ensure any broth you use is gluten-free as well to keep the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I cook these meatballs on the stovetop instead of baking?

While baking and broiling give a nice crust, you can cook them on the stovetop by searing each side in a pan with a bit of oil and then covering and simmering with a splash of broth until cooked through. This method works well if you prefer pan-frying.

How do I prevent the meatballs from drying out?

Using a combination of ground turkey and sausage keeps them juicy. Also, don’t overbake them—15 minutes baking followed by a quick broil helps seal in moisture. Adding broth and butter when preparing the stuffing keeps the texture just right.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time and freeze before baking?

Yes, you can roll the raw meatballs and freeze them on a tray before baking. When you’re ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they cook through.

Final Thoughts

This Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe is one of those incredible dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and so versatile you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation well beyond the holidays. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy turkey and stuffing all year round!