Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that brings warmth to any table, you’ll absolutely love these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls. They’re a delightful twist on traditional stuffing, packed with flavor and perfect for both busy weeknights and festive gatherings. The combination of ground turkey and sweet cranberries creates a comforting bite that everyone will enjoy.

These little gems are not just tasty; they’re also incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or planning a family dinner, these stuffing balls are versatile enough to suit any occasion. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: These stuffing balls come together in no time, making them perfect for those busy evenings when you need a satisfying meal fast.
• Family-Friendly: With their mild flavor and fun shape, even picky eaters will enjoy these bites!
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare them in advance and bake them just before serving, saving you time on the day of your event.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of turkey, cranberries, and herbs creates a savory yet slightly sweet flavor that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls. These are all easy to find at your local grocery store and come together beautifully in this recipe.

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

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to make it your own! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Use ground chicken or even a plant-based alternative for a different flavor profile.
• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a lovely crunch and extra richness.
• Incorporate veggies: Toss in finely diced bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and color.
• Change the herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary instead of sage and thyme for a unique twist.

How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the stuffing balls bake evenly and become perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together your dried bread cubes, dried cranberries, finely chopped celery, and onion. This combination adds texture and sweetness that complements the turkey beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare the Turkey Mixture

In another bowl, combine your ground turkey with chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, sage, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mixing these ingredients well is key because it helps infuse all those delicious flavors into the turkey.

Step 4: Form the Balls

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the turkey mixture to your bread cube mixture. Mix gently until everything is combined. Then shape this mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. Shaping them consistently ensures they cook evenly.

Step 5: Bake

Finally, pop those beauties in the oven! Bake for about 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be irresistible!

And there you have it—your very own Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls ready to be enjoyed! Perfect as an appetizer or served alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the flavor significantly. Using fresh celery and onions instead of dried will give your stuffing balls a vibrant taste and texture.

• Let the Mixture Rest: Allowing the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes before forming the balls helps the bread absorb the turkey mixture, leading to a moister and more cohesive final product.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or some crushed red pepper flakes can give your stuffing balls a unique twist that surprises your palate.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the turkey mixture with the bread cubes, mix gently. Overmixing can lead to tough stuffing balls instead of tender, juicy bites.

• Check for Doneness: To ensure your stuffing balls are cooked through, use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption while ensuring they’re perfectly moist.

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

These delightful stuffing balls are versatile and can be served in various ways that make them perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, presentation matters!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each serving.
• Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce on top provides a sweet contrast that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted with olive oil brings warmth and adds nutritious value to your meal.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with the stuffing balls.
• Green Salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the stuffing.
• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans seasoned lightly with salt and pepper add color and crunch, making them an excellent accompaniment.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to impress your guests or family with a deliciously satisfying meal! Enjoy every bite of your Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat these tasty treats.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing balls to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They can be stored for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Before baking, you can freeze the formed stuffing balls.
• Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes or until heated through.
• If reheating leftovers from the fridge, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
• For a quicker option, you can microwave them on medium power in short intervals until warm.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute if you prefer it over turkey. Just keep the rest of the ingredients the same for delicious results!

How do I make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free bread cubes. Everything else remains unchanged, and you’ll still have delightful stuffing balls!

What can I serve with Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

These stuffing balls pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. They also make a great addition to any holiday meal!

Can I add nuts or seeds to my stuffing balls?

Yes! Feel free to get creative by adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds for added crunch and flavor.

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

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

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! They’re perfect for family gatherings or as a simple weeknight dinner. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience with others. Happy cooking!