Healthy Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs for Cozy Fall Meals

Name: Healthy Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 small apple, grated; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp onion, finely chopped; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil, for searing; 1 cup apple cider; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tsp water; salt and pepper to taste

Posted on December 11, 2025

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Introduction

These Healthy Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs are the perfect cozy fall dinner — juicy, flavorful, and gently spiced with cinnamon and apple goodness. Each bite bursts with warmth and comfort, balanced by a tangy apple cider glaze that feels like autumn in every forkful. Whether you’re planning a family meal or a festive weeknight dinner, this wholesome recipe adds a seasonal twist to classic meatballs, making your kitchen smell incredible while keeping things nutritious and simple.

meatballs coated in glossy apple cider sauce — Healthy Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs for Cozy Fall Meals 4

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Light and healthy, made with lean ground turkey
Delicious apple cider glaze with a hint of sweetness
Quick 30-minute dinner for busy fall nights
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
Pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies

Ingredients Needed

For the Turkey Meatballs:

1 lb ground turkey
1 small apple, grated
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp finely chopped onion
½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)

For the Apple Cider Glaze:

1 cup apple cider
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tsp water (for thickening)
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, grated apple, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
Shape:
Form into small, even meatballs (about 1 to 1½ inches).
Sear:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown on all sides, about 6–8 minutes.
Prepare the Glaze:
In a small saucepan, whisk together apple cider, vinegar, mustard, and honey. Bring to a simmer for 5 minutes.
Thicken:
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook another 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine:
Pour the glaze over the browned meatballs. Simmer on low for 10 minutes until fully cooked and coated.
Serve:
Spoon extra glaze on top before serving warm.

Tips for Success

Don’t overmix the turkey — gentle mixing keeps meatballs tender.
Use freshly grated apple for moisture and natural sweetness.
Make the glaze ahead of time for quick prep.
If baking instead, bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes.
Use a meat thermometer — internal temperature should reach 165°F.

meatballs on a white plate with mashed — Healthy Apple Cider Turkey Meatballs for Cozy Fall Meals 5

Variations & Substitutions

Chicken instead of turkey: Swap with ground chicken for a lighter option.
Gluten-free: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Sweetener swap: Try maple syrup for a richer fall flavor.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.
Vegan version: Replace turkey with plant-based mince and a flax egg.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over creamy mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash.
Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes.
Serve as a holiday appetizer with toothpicks.
Make it a cozy fall bowl with quinoa and sautéed kale.
Drizzle leftover glaze over rice or roasted veggies.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze cooked meatballs (with or without glaze) for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a splash of water or cider, or microwave gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen ground turkey?
Yes, just thaw it fully before mixing to ensure even cooking.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Form the meatballs and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.

How do I thicken the glaze if it’s too runny?
Add another small splash of cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tsp water) and simmer.

Can I bake these instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes or until cooked through.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Swap breadcrumbs for oat flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.