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Cocktail-Style Turkey Meatballs

These bite-sized turkey meatballs are perfect for any gathering or casual snack time. Packed with flavor and easy to make, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next party.

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TIME1 hr
SERVINGS4
RATING5.0 / 5
Cocktail-Style Turkey Meatballs
01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

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01

Step 1

Start by heating your oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. In a big bowl, combine the bread crumbs, egg, a quarter cup of chopped onion, water chestnuts, a quarter cup of applesauce, Parmesan, parsley, salt, mustard powder, and poultry seasoning. Add the ground turkey and gently mix everything together until just combined—don’t overwork it. Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1½ inches wide and set them on your prepared baking sheet. Pop them in the oven and bake for around 20 minutes, or until they’re cooked through (a meat thermometer should read 165°F in the center). While the meatballs cook, whisk together apple jelly, a cup of applesauce, cider vinegar, half a cup of minced onion, ketchup, chili sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, Dijon, dry mustard, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Let the sauce simmer gently, stirring now and then, for about 10 minutes so the flavors can meld. When the meatballs are done, transfer them into the simmering sauce, cover, and let everything cook together for another 10 minutes. Finish by sprinkling the remaining parsley on top before serving.

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use fresh herbs to enhance the flavor.
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
- Brown the meatballs in a hot pan before baking to add extra flavor and a nice crust.

Why you’ll love it

These meatballs are packed with flavor and have a great texture that’s both tender and juicy. They make a perfect appetizer or snack for any gathering. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time.

Serving ideas

Serve these meatballs with a tangy dipping sauce like cranberry mustard or a spicy aioli. They also go well with cocktail picks for easy handling at parties. Pair them with a crisp salad or some crunchy veggies for a balanced bite.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or microwave to keep them moist. You can also freeze cooked meatballs for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight before reheating.

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