Name: Easy Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 43 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; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 (6 oz.) box turkey Stovetop stuffing (chicken or turkey flavor); 1 lb. ground turkey (85% lean); ½ lb. ground sausage (recommend mild or spicy based on preference); 1 large egg, whisked

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 256 reviews

If you’re on the lookout for a cozy, comforting dish that brings together all the flavors of a classic holiday meal in just one delightful bite, you have to try this Easy Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe. These meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned, combining tender ground turkey and savory sausage with stuffing soaked in chicken broth and buttery goodness. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a simple weeknight dinner with the essence of Thanksgiving, this recipe delivers unbeatable taste without hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A small silver pot sits on a white marbled surface, filled with three layers: on the left side is a creamy white cube of butter, next to finely chopped white onions that cover about a third of the pot, and finely chopped bright green celery filling the remaining space. The second image shows the same pot with the onions and celery mixed and slightly cooked to a more translucent color, stirred by a teal silicone spatula held by a woman's hand. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this recipe lies in a few simple, well-chosen ingredients that create incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays its part perfectly—from the moisture and richness brought by the broth and butter to the savory bite of seasoned sausage and hearty stuffing mix.

Yellow onion (½ cup minced): Adds sweetness and a gentle depth of flavor once softened.

Celery (1 rib, very finely diced): Provides a subtle crunch and fresh aroma.
Chicken broth (¾ cup): Essential for moistening the stuffing and packing in savory goodness.
Water (¼ cup): Helps balance the liquid and keep the stuffing tender.

Butter (4 tablespoons, divided): Adds richness and carries flavor throughout the dish.
Turkey stovetop stuffing (1 box, 6 oz.): The hearty base that ties the meatballs together with classic flavor.
Ground turkey (1 lb, 85% lean): Light, lean meat that keeps the meatballs tender yet satisfying.

Salt and pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings to enhance all the other ingredients.
Ground sausage (½ lb): Adds delicious seasoning and juiciness; choose your favorite variety for extra personality.
Large egg (1, whisked): Acts as the binder to hold everything in perfect shape for baking.

How to Make Easy Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe

The image shows two large metal trays side by side on a white marbled surface. Each tray holds 30 evenly spaced round balls arranged in six rows and five columns. The left tray has raw meatballs, light pink with small bits of yellow and white visible in the texture. The right tray shows cooked meatballs, golden brown with a slightly rough texture and small bits of yellow and white still visible. Both trays are full, and the meatballs have a consistent shape and size. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by melting half of your butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Toss in the minced onions and finely diced celery, then cook them gently for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring often. This softens them nicely, releasing their beautiful fragrance and sweetness that will infuse the entire dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing Mixture

Add the remaining butter, chicken broth, and water to the pan and bring everything to a boil. Stir in the turkey stovetop stuffing mix, then reduce the heat to low. Mix it thoroughly so the stuffing absorbs all those flavorful liquids. Once everything is combined, remove the pan from heat and transfer the warm stuffing into a large bowl to cool just for a couple of minutes.

Step 3: Combine the Meat and Stuffing

Season your ground turkey with salt and pepper, then add it to the bowl with the stuffing. Next, add the ground sausage and whisked egg. Stir everything together until the mixture is evenly combined, making sure every bite has that perfect balance of meat and savory stuffing.

Step 4: Form the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into meatballs about 1 ¾ inches in diameter. Placing them on a lightly greased baking sheet (a light-colored one helps you keep an eye on browning), space them evenly so they cook beautifully on all sides.

Step 5: Bake and Broil to Perfection

Bake the meatballs in a preheated 400° F oven for 15 minutes. Then, crank up the heat to broil at 450° F and broil for 2 minutes. Keep a close watch during this short broiling step to achieve that perfect golden brown color without burning.

How to Serve Easy Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe

Garnishes

A simple garnish of chopped fresh parsley brightens the dish both visually and flavor-wise. If you love a little tang, try a drizzle of cranberry sauce on the side to add that perfect holiday-inspired zing that complements the savory richness.

Side Dishes

This recipe naturally pairs beautifully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans. Gravy on the side is almost mandatory, soaking into each bite and creating the ultimate comfort meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these meatballs as sliders with a dollop of cranberry mayo and some crisp lettuce on small buns. They also make wonderful appetizer bites at holiday parties when skewered with toothpicks and served alongside a savory dipping sauce like a tangy mustard or aioli.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Easy Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve their moisture.

Freezing

You can freeze these meatballs after baking and cooling. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months, making meal prep a breeze on busy days.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the meatballs in the oven at 350° F for about 10 to 15 minutes or microwave in short bursts, covered, to retain their juiciness. Adding a splash of broth when reheating helps keep them moist.

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs without sausage?

Absolutely! You can omit the sausage if you prefer a leaner meatball. Consider adding extra seasoning or a bit more salt and pepper for extra flavor, since sausage adds seasoning and fat.

What’s the best way to bind the meatballs if I don’t have an egg?

You can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or even a bit of breadcrumbs soaked in milk. These binders work well for holding the meatballs together.

Can these meatballs be cooked on the stovetop instead of baking?

Yes! You can pan-fry the meatballs in a little oil over medium heat until cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally. This method will give a nice crust but watch carefully to avoid burning.

Is it okay to use chicken stuffing instead of turkey stuffing?

Definitely. Both chicken and turkey stuffing work beautifully in this recipe and will give just the right flavor profile. The important part is that it’s a boxed stovetop stuffing mix that soaks up the broth nicely.

Can I add extra herbs or spices to the meatballs?

Feel free! Fresh herbs like sage, thyme, or rosemary complement the turkey and stuffing flavors spectacularly. A pinch of garlic powder or paprika can also add a nice subtle kick.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like the holidays but cooks up quickly and easily, this Easy Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s approachable, bursting with flavor, and a perfect way to treat yourself and your loved ones any time of year. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite in your recipe collection!