Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings warmth to your kitchen, you’ve come to the right place! These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are a favorite in my home, and I believe they’ll quickly become a staple in yours too. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, offering that cozy feeling we all crave without taking hours to prepare.

What makes these little bites so special is the delightful combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberries. Each bite is packed with flavor, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re super versatile—serve them as a side dish or a hearty appetizer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for those bustling weeknights when you need something delicious without the fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids love them! The combination of flavors makes even the pickiest eaters excited for dinner.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these ahead of time and just pop them in the oven when you need them. Perfect for meal prepping!
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of herbs, turkey, and cranberries creates a mouthwatering taste that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
• Comfort Food Delight: There’s something about stuffing balls that feels like a warm hug on a plate—ideal for any occasion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should be simple and enjoyable! For these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls, you’ll be using wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you need:

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 its flexibility! Feel free to mix it up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground chicken or even a plant-based meat alternative if you’re looking for something different.
• Add veggies: Toss in some grated carrots or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost and a pop of color.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary instead of dried ones for an aromatic twist.
• Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat!

How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is essential as it ensures that your stuffing balls cook evenly and turn golden brown.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the dried bread cubes, cranberries, celery, and onion. This will form the base of your stuffing balls. Then, in another bowl, combine your ground turkey with chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, sage, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mixing these separately helps incorporate flavors evenly.

Step 3: Form Balls

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the turkey mixture into the bowl with the bread cubes and gently combine until well mixed. Shape this mixture into 1 ½-inch balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. The shaping process is important—it helps create those perfectly round bites that will hold their shape while baking.

Step 4: Bake

Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re done when they turn golden brown and smell heavenly. Baking not only cooks through the turkey but also allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Enjoy these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls as part of your next meal—they’re sure to make everyone smile!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Making the perfect Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls is easier than you think with a few helpful tips!

• Choose the Right Bread Cubes: Opt for a mix of whole grain and white bread cubes for a balanced texture and flavor. Whole grain adds a nutty taste, while white bread keeps it light and fluffy.

• Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: Be generous with your herbs and spices! The seasoning is what brings all the flavors together, making your stuffing balls delicious and aromatic.

• Let the Mixture Rest: Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes before forming the balls. This helps the bread absorb moisture better, resulting in a more cohesive texture.

• Use a Cookie Scoop: For uniformity in size, use a cookie scoop to shape your stuffing balls. This ensures even cooking and makes for a lovely presentation.

• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative! Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add crunch, while diced apples can introduce a hint of sweetness that complements the cranberries beautifully.

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

These stuffing balls are versatile and can be presented in many delightful ways! Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or as part of a cozy family dinner, here are some ideas to elevate your dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or thyme over the top just before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Cranberry Sauce: A small dollop of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce on the side adds tanginess and enhances the festive feel of this dish.
• Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor along with bright color, making your plating more appealing.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized complements the savory stuffing balls beautifully.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing offers a refreshing contrast that balances out the richness of the stuffing.
• Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy mashed cauliflower infused with garlic provides a low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes while still being comforting and satisfying.
• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in olive oil and lemon juice add brightness to your plate, rounding out the meal nicely.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dining experience featuring your delicious Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and nutritious dish throughout the week. With just a bit of planning, you can make these ahead of time and have them ready to go when you need a quick meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing balls to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• After baking, let the stuffing balls cool completely.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen balls to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated stuffing balls, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the balls on a lined baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• If reheating from frozen, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making these tasty stuffing balls.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey for Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will give you similar flavor and texture in your stuffing balls.

How long do Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls gluten-free?

Yes! Just use gluten-free bread cubes instead of regular ones, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version.

What can I serve with Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

These stuffing balls pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, salad, or even as a hearty appetizer at gatherings!

Can I add other ingredients to my Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Definitely! Feel free to customize them by adding nuts, different herbs, or even vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! They’re not only easy to whip up but also packed with flavor that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Whether you’re prepping for busy weeknights or looking for a comforting dish to share with loved ones, this recipe is special. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!