Name: 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; 1 (6 oz.) box turkey Stovetop stuffing (chicken or turkey flavor); 1 lb. ground turkey (85% lean); ½ lb. ground sausage; 1 large egg, whisked; Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 86 reviews

If you’re craving something that hits all the cozy, comforting notes at once, this Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe is an absolute winner. Combining lean ground turkey with flavorful sausage and classic stovetop stuffing, these meatballs bake up juicy and tender with a perfectly seasoned, savory bite every time. Whether you’re looking for a fresh spin on holiday leftovers or simply a delicious, crowd-pleasing dinner, this recipe blends simplicity and rich flavor into one irresistible dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A stainless steel pot sits on a white marbled surface, showing two stages of cooking. The first stage shows three layers inside the pot: finely chopped white onions occupying the top right half, small diced green celery filling the bottom left half, and a square of pale yellow butter placed near the celery on the left side. The second stage shows the same pot with the onions and celery softening and mixing together, stirred by a teal silicone spatula resting inside. The chopped vegetables now appear lighter and slightly translucent, sitting evenly on the bottom of the pot. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but incredibly important in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and warmth in your Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe. Each one contributes a layer of flavor or moisture that transforms these meatballs from ordinary to unforgettable.

Yellow onion (½ cup, minced): Adds a sweet, aromatic foundation that softens beautifully during cooking.

Celery (1 rib, very finely diced): Brings a subtle freshness and slight crunch that enhances the overall texture.
Chicken broth (¾ cup): Infuses the stuffing with rich savory notes, keeping the meatballs moist.
Water (¼ cup): Used to perfect the stuffing’s moisture balance without watering down flavors.

Butter (4 tablespoons, divided): Adds creaminess and helps soften the vegetables and stuffing for depth in every bite.
Turkey stovetop stuffing (1 box, 6 oz.): The star ingredient that brings that unmistakable comfort flavor and heartiness.
Ground turkey (1 lb., 85% lean): Keeps the meatballs lean yet tender, letting the other flavors shine.

Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all the ingredients.
Ground sausage (½ lb.): Adds fat and seasoning for richness and juiciness—don’t skip it!
Large egg (1, whisked): Acts as a natural binder, holding the mixture together perfectly while baking.

How to Make Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe

Two metal baking trays are placed side by side on a white marbled surface. The tray on the left holds 30 round balls of raw meat mixed with visible small yellow and white bits, arranged in 5 rows and 6 columns. The tray on the right shows the same 30 balls but cooked, with a brownish color and a slightly rough texture. Both trays are rectangular with slightly raised edges, evenly spaced with the meatballs, and the lighting shows soft shadows around the edges. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by preheating your oven to 400° F. Melt half of your butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then add the minced onions and finely diced celery. Cook these slowly, stirring often, until they soften and become fragrant—about 5 to 6 minutes. This creates that rich flavor base that sets the tone for what’s coming next.

Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing Mixture

Next, add the remaining butter, chicken broth, and water into the saucepan and bring everything to a lively boil. Stir in the turkey stovetop stuffing and then dial the heat back to low, mixing until everything is perfectly combined. This moist, flavorful stuffing mixture is the key component that will give your meatballs that beautiful taste and texture. Allow it to sit for a couple of minutes off the heat to cool slightly.

Step 3: Combine the Meatball Ingredients

While the stuffing cools, season your ground turkey with salt and pepper to enhance its natural flavor. In a large bowl, combine the seasoned turkey, stuffing mixture, ground sausage, and whisked egg. Stir everything thoroughly so the ingredients are evenly distributed—this ensures every meatball has a perfect balance of components.

Step 4: Form the Meatballs

With your hands, roll the mixture into meatballs about 1 ¾ inches in diameter. Using a light-colored, lightly greased baking sheet helps them cook evenly while making it easy to see when they’re perfectly browned. This size allows for juicy centers and a satisfying bite without any dryness.

Step 5: Bake and Broil to Perfection

Bake your meatballs in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. To get that irresistible golden top, switch your oven to broil at 450° F for an extra 2 minutes—just keep a watchful eye so they don’t brown too much. This final step locks in juices and adds a little crispness that contrasts beautifully with the tender interior.

Step 6: Ready to Serve

Remove the meatballs from the oven and get ready to dig in. They pair wonderfully with hearty sides, soaking up sauces and adding a nostalgic twist to your meal.

How to Serve Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe

Garnishes

A simple garnish of freshly chopped parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and an herbal brightness that balances out the richness of the meatballs. A drizzle of gravy or cranberry sauce complements the flavors by introducing a savory or sweet contrast.

Side Dishes

Mashed potatoes, garlic green beans, and a tart cranberry sauce are classic companions that elevate your Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe into a full meal experience reminiscent of a comforting holiday feast. These sides bring warmth and freshness that round out the hearty meatballs beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these meatballs over creamy risotto or buttery polenta for a comforting twist. Or, stack them on slider buns with a spoonful of gravy for a fun, crowd-pleasing appetizer. They also make for fantastic meatball soup additions or a protein-packed salad topping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your extra meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They retain their moisture well, making them perfect for quick lunches or a second dinner without fuss.

Freezing

If you want to stock your freezer with these tasty delights, place the cooked meatballs on a baking sheet to freeze individually first. When frozen solid, transfer them into freezer-safe bags or containers. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months and thaw easily for a quick meal anytime.

Reheating

Reheat leftover meatballs gently in the oven at 350° F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them covered on medium power to avoid drying out. Adding a splash of broth or sauce helps maintain their juiciness during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use all ground turkey instead of sausage?

Absolutely. Using all ground turkey makes the dish leaner, but the sausage adds extra fat and seasoning that really enhances the flavor and texture. You might want to add extra seasoning if you skip the sausage.

Is it necessary to broil the meatballs at the end?

Broiling adds a wonderful golden crust that balances the soft interiors, but if you prefer, you can skip it and just bake a little longer for a fully cooked yet softer finish.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, swap out the stovetop stuffing for a gluten-free alternative or homemade gluten-free stuffing mix. This lets you enjoy all the terrific flavors without gluten worries.

How long do these meatballs take to prepare and cook?

The entire process takes about 40 to 45 minutes from start to finish, including prep and baking, making it a relatively quick yet impressive dish.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheating in the oven with a little extra moisture, such as a splash of chicken broth or covering with foil, helps keep the meatballs juicy. Microwaving on medium power in short bursts works well too.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so satisfying about sinking your teeth into these flavorful Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs Recipe bites. They bring all the warmth of a holiday dinner in every tender mouthful, but you get to enjoy them any time of year with ease. Give this recipe a try—you might find yourself craving these meatballs long before any special occasion. Happy cooking and even happier eating!