Thanksgiving Dinner Meatballs
Festive and savory meatballs infused with stuffing, cheddar, walnuts, and herbs, perfect for holiday gatherings or hearty family dinners with a comforting, flavorful profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together and let set for a while, even overnight if desired.
- Shape the mixture into approximately 16 balls.
- Place the meatballs in a serving dish and cover with sauce.
- Bake, covered, at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding cooked sausage or swapping the walnuts for pecans for a different texture. Ensure the stuffing mix is well-seasoned for maximum flavor. If you're short on time, use pre-made stuffing mix and skip the overnight setting. Fresh herbs can enhance the taste, so feel free to incorporate thyme or sage.
Serving Suggestions
These Thanksgiving Dinner Meatballs are delightful served with a side of mashed potatoes or Pepper Jack Potatoes for a spicy kick. A fresh green salad can balance the richness, and a dollop of cranberry sauce adds a festive touch. They also make a great appetizer for holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a little sauce and cover with foil, warming them in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Thanksgiving Dinner Meatballs contains roughly 401 calories, with 12g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance and shape them before baking. Just cover the mixture tightly and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making them even more delicious when baked.
What sauce works best with these meatballs?
A simple homemade gravy or a tangy BBQ sauce pairs wonderfully with these meatballs. You could also try a cranberry glaze for a festive touch. Pour the sauce over the meatballs while baking to infuse them with flavor.
Can I make these meatballs vegetarian?
Yes! To make vegetarian meatballs, substitute the stuffing mix with a vegetable-based alternative and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) instead of regular eggs. You can also incorporate finely chopped mushrooms for added texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).