Who says Thanksgiving flavors are reserved for one day a year? These Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze bring all the holiday vibes in a healthier, bite-sized package. Whether you’re looking for a festive appetizer to wow your guests or an easy meal-prep option that makes lunch feel special, this recipe is your new go-to.  

Lean ground turkey is a protein-packed powerhouse, keeping things light without sacrificing flavor. Meanwhile, the cranberry glaze offers a sweet-tangy twist that’s rich in antioxidants and feels indulgent without the sugar crash. Bonus? These little guys are air-fried, so you get all the taste with none of the guilt.  

Serve them at your next gathering, or whip up a batch for the week ahead—because Thanksgiving doesn’t have to end at dessert. Let’s roll up our sleeves (and some turkey meatballs) and get cooking!

Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze

At 10 calories each, your guests won't be wobbling this Thanksgiving!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 18 meatballs
Calories 10 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Air Fryer
  • 1 Medium Glass Bowl
  • 1 Sauce Pan
  • 1 Cookie scoop

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb. Ground Turkey (93-99%)
  • 1/2 tsp. Sage
  • 1 tsp. Kinders Whiskey Apple Seasoning
  • 1/8 tsp. black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1 tbsp. minced garlic
  • 1/2 whole yellow onion
  • 1 cup Fresh cranberries Can also use frozen
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tbsp tapioca starch
  • 1 tbsp. stevia or monkfruit

Instructions
 

  • Chop onion.
  • In a medium bowl, add the ground turkey, seasonings, & chopped onion. Mix with a large spoon or your hands until seasonings are evenly disributed within meat mixture.
  • Using your cookie scoop, or hands, form mixture into balls and place into air fryer basket 1-2 inches apart.
  • Cook at 400 degrees F for 8 minutes.
  • In a sauce pan, mix cranberries, water, tapioca starch, and sweetener. Bring to a boil over a medium-high heat.
  • Cover and reduce heat. Allow to simmer for about 10 minutes, or until cranberries are fully broken and incorporated into the mixture.
  • Serve glaze as a dipping sauce or pour over meatballs. Can be stored for up to 5 days in refridgerator.
Keyword christmas, gluten free, healthy recipes, holiday recipe, ketogenic, low carb, meal prep, paleo, sugar free, thanksgiving