Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls
If you’re looking for a cozy dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table, you’ve come to the right place! These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are not just a delicious addition to any meal; they’re a true crowd-pleaser. Perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings, this recipe combines savory turkey with the sweetness of cranberries, creating a delightful flavor explosion in every bite.
The beauty of these stuffing balls lies in their versatility. They can be served as an appetizer, paired with a salad for dinner, or enjoyed as a tasty snack. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead of time, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your loved ones!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these stuffing balls in no time.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of flavors and textures.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep them in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to serve—ideal for hectic days!
- Deliciously Flavorful: The mix of ground turkey and cranberries makes each bite juicy and satisfying.
- Customizable: Feel free to get creative with ingredients based on your preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are made with wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Each component adds its unique flavor and texture, making this dish truly special.
For the Stuffing Balls
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 4 cups dried bread cubes
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily swap out ingredients or add new ones based on what you have on hand or your personal taste.
- Swap the protein: Instead of ground turkey, try using chicken or even plant-based meat for a different twist.
- Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra layer of texture.
- Go bold with spices: If you love heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Mix in veggies: Add shredded carrots or diced bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your stuffing balls cook evenly and develop that beautiful golden-brown color we all love.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the dried bread cubes, dried cranberries, finely chopped celery, and onion. This mixture serves as the base for your stuffing balls, providing both flavor and texture.
In another bowl, combine the ground turkey, chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, sage, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This blend adds moisture and flavor to our stuffing balls.
Step 3: Form Balls
Now comes the fun part! Add the turkey mixture into the bowl with the bread cubes and gently combine everything together until well mixed. Using your hands (this is where it gets personal!), shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls. Place them on a lined baking sheet so they don’t stick while cooking.
Step 4: Bake
Pop those deliciously formed stuffing balls into your preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown. This final step brings all those lovely flavors together while ensuring they’re cooked through.
And just like that, you’ve created mouthwatering Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls that are sure to impress anyone at your table! Enjoy every bite!
Pro Tips for Making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls
Making these stuffing balls is a delightful experience, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!
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Use Day-Old Bread: Using dried bread cubes that are a day or two old helps them absorb the moisture from the turkey mixture without becoming soggy, resulting in perfectly textured stuffing balls.
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Chill the Mixture: Refrigerating the turkey mixture for about 30 minutes before forming the balls makes it easier to handle and ensures they hold their shape while baking.
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Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like rosemary or parsley for additional flavor. This can enhance the overall taste profile and make your stuffing balls even more aromatic.
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Adjust the Size: If you prefer bite-sized snacks, shape smaller balls. Just remember to reduce the baking time slightly to prevent overcooking.
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Add Nuts or Seeds: For an added crunch and nutrition, consider mixing in some chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds. This not only provides texture but also enhances the flavor.
How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls
These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are versatile and can be served in various ways that will impress your family and friends. Here’s how you can present this delicious dish beautifully!
Garnishes
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, making the dish visually appealing.
- Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce on top adds a sweet contrast that complements the savory stuffing balls perfectly.
Side Dishes
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Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized pairs wonderfully with the stuffing balls, adding vibrant color and nutrients.
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Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad loaded with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the hearty stuffing balls while keeping things healthy.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide comfort and are always a crowd-pleaser. The rich flavors make for a wonderful accompaniment alongside your turkey stuffing balls.
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Green Bean Almondine: Crunchy green beans sautéed with almonds offer both texture and brightness on your plate. It’s an easy side that elevates any meal!
Enjoy making these delicious stuffing balls, and let your creativity shine through in how you serve them!
Make Ahead and Storage
These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, healthy bites throughout the week. Prepare them ahead of time to save time on busy days or for holiday gatherings!
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
- Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.
Freezing
- To freeze, place the cooked stuffing balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper if desired.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- For best results, reheat the stuffing balls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
- Alternatively, you can microwave them in short bursts (30 seconds) until heated through.
- Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
FAQs
Got questions? Here are some common ones about these yummy bites!
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey for the stuffing balls?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great alternative and will still provide a delicious flavor similar to Turkey.
How do I make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls more flavorful?
You can enhance the flavor by adding additional herbs like rosemary or parsley. Also, consider incorporating spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper for a little kick!
Can I make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free bread cubes and ensure your broth is also gluten-free. You’ll have a delightful dish that everyone can enjoy!
What can I serve with Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?
These stuffing balls pair wonderfully with salads, roasted vegetables, or even as appetizers with dipping sauces like cranberry sauce or mustard.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! They bring together comforting flavors and are perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Enjoy every bite, share them with loved ones, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite flavors. Happy cooking!
Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
If you’re seeking a dish that combines comfort and flavor, these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect choice! Juicy ground turkey is paired with sweet dried cranberries, creating a delightful blend that’s sure to impress. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they also offer versatility in serving options—perfect as appetizers, dinner companions, or snacks. Make them ahead of time for stress-free entertaining, and enjoy the warm embrace of this cozy dish with your loved ones.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 4 cups dried bread cubes
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine dried bread cubes, cranberries, celery, and onion.
- In another bowl, mix ground turkey with chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, and seasonings until well blended.
- Combine both mixtures gently and form into 1 1/2-inch balls.
- Place on a lined baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
