Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and joy to your dinner table, then these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are just the ticket! They are not only delicious but also bursting with flavor and texture. I love how they combine the savory taste of turkey with the sweet, tangy pop of cranberries. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a festive family gathering, these little bites are sure to impress everyone.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to whip up. You can prepare them ahead of time and bake them just before serving. They make for an excellent addition to any meal or even as a tasty snack on their own!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These stuffing balls come together in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the delightful combination of flavors.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them ahead of time and pop them in the oven whenever you need a delicious side.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you can feel good about serving.
• Versatile Dish: Great as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls use simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to bring this delicious recipe to life!

• 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 wonderfully flexible, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture and richness.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat if you enjoy spicy flavors.
• Go seasonal: Mix in other dried fruits such as apricots or raisins for a twist on sweetness.

How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your stuffing balls cook evenly and develop that beautiful golden color we all love.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the dried bread cubes, cranberries, celery, and onion. Mixing these ingredients together creates a flavorful base that will soak up all those lovely seasonings later.

Step 3: Mix the Turkey Mixture

In another bowl, combine the ground turkey, chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, sage, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your stuffing balls—don’t skip this step!

Step 4: Form the Balls

Now comes the fun part! Add the turkey mixture to your bread cube mixture. Use your hands to shape everything into 1½-inch balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. This is where they start taking shape!

Step 5: Bake

Place your baking sheet in the oven and let them bake for about 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen—trust me; it’s heavenly!

And there you have it! A delightful dish ready to be enjoyed at any occasion. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Creating the perfect Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls can be a delightful experience with a few helpful tips!

• Use day-old bread: Stale bread absorbs moisture better, resulting in firmer stuffing balls that hold their shape while baking.
• Chill the mixture: After mixing the ingredients, let them chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to form the balls.
• Don’t overmix: Gently combine the turkey mixture with the bread cubes. Overmixing can lead to tough stuffing balls, so keep it light and fluffy!
• Test for seasoning: Before shaping all your stuffing balls, cook a small patty on the stovetop to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed to ensure great flavor.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to customize the herbs according to your preference. Rosemary or parsley can add a fresh twist that complements the cranberries beautifully.

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

These stuffing balls are not only delicious but also versatile! Here are some creative ideas on how to present this mouthwatering dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Cranberry sauce: A dollop of cranberry sauce on top of each ball enhances flavor and provides a lovely contrast in texture.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts bring warmth and balance to your meal, making it hearty yet healthy.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort alongside these stuffing balls, creating a classic pairing that everyone loves.
• Green salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette dressing refreshes your palate between bites, adding a nice crunch and freshness to your plate.
• Gravy: A rich gravy drizzled over the stuffing balls can take them to another level of deliciousness, providing extra moisture and flavor.

Now you’re ready to serve up these scrumptious Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls at your next gathering or cozy dinner at home! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious home-cooked flavors throughout the week. You can whip up a batch ahead of time and store them, ensuring that you have tasty snacks or sides ready when you need them!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure they cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing

• Allow cooked stuffing balls to cool completely.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, labeling with the date. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffing balls in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave them for about 1-2 minutes on high, checking frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls:

Can I use chicken instead of turkey for stuffing balls?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken for ground turkey in this recipe. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!

How long can I store Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls in the fridge?

You can keep cooked stuffing balls in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make these stuffing balls without bread?

While bread is a key ingredient, you could try using gluten-free bread or even quinoa as a base if you’re looking for alternatives!

What can I serve with Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

These stuffing balls pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to create these delightful Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! They’re not only easy to make but also bring warmth and comfort to any meal. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite herbs and spices, and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family. Happy cooking!