Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table, you’ve come to the right place! These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are not just easy to whip up, but they also pack a punch of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is a go-to for any occasion when you want something hearty yet simple.

What makes these stuffing balls truly special is the combination of savory turkey with sweet cranberries. The result? A delicious bite that’s packed with nostalgia. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or as part of your main course, they’ll surely become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you need a tasty meal without the fuss.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love these flavorful bites, making it a win-win for everyone at the dinner table.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare these ahead of time, saving precious minutes on busy days or during holiday feasts.
• Delicious flavor: The balance of turkey and cranberries creates an irresistible combination that is sure to delight your taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create these scrumptious Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls:

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 things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: If you prefer chicken or even plant-based ground meat, feel free to use those instead of turkey.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra texture boost.
• Experiment with herbs: Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for a unique twist on flavor.
• Make it spicy: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!

How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! Set it to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your stuffing balls bake evenly and achieve that lovely golden-brown color.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together your dried bread cubes, dried cranberries, finely chopped celery, and onion. This step builds the base flavors and textures for your stuffing balls. Combining these ingredients now allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully!

Step 3: Mix Turkey Mixture

In another bowl, combine your ground turkey, chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, sage, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, the moisture from the broth and butter helps keep everything juicy!

Step 4: Form Balls

Now it’s time for some hands-on fun! Gently fold the turkey mixture into the bread cube mixture until well combined. Then shape this mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. Shaping them evenly will help ensure they cook uniformly.

Step 5: Bake

Pop those beautiful stuffing balls in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown. The baking process will transform them into crunchy bites on the outside while remaining tender on the inside—absolutely irresistible!

Enjoy creating these delightful Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! They’re sure to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Making these stuffing balls is a breeze, and with a few tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use stale bread cubes: Stale bread absorbs moisture better than fresh bread, helping your stuffing balls hold their shape while ensuring they don’t become too soggy.

• Customize your herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley to suit your taste preferences. This not only enhances flavor but also adds a personal touch to the recipe.

• Ensure even mixing: When combining the turkey mixture and bread cubes, mix gently but thoroughly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. This helps distribute the ingredients evenly, leading to deliciously consistent stuffing balls.

• Adjust baking time based on size: If you decide to make larger or smaller balls, be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. This ensures that they cook through without burning or remaining undercooked.

• Let them rest after baking: Allowing the stuffing balls to rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute. This results in juicier and tastier bites!

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

These delightful cranberry & turkey stuffing balls can be served in various ways that make them visually appealing and deliciously satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, here’s how you can present this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness that enhances both presentation and flavor.

• Cranberry sauce: A small dollop of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce on the side brings a sweet-tart contrast that complements the savory stuffing balls beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized offer a hearty and healthy accompaniment that balances out the meal.

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast in texture and flavor while keeping things nutritious.

• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food pairing. Their rich texture complements the stuffing balls perfectly for a satisfying meal.

• Green bean almondine: Sautéed green beans tossed with toasted almonds add crunch and brightness, creating an appealing dish that rounds out your dinner nicely.

With these serving suggestions, your cranberry & turkey stuffing balls will be the star of the table! Enjoy every flavorful bite as you gather around with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week. Let’s talk about how to store them properly so you can savor their deliciousness even after the first serving.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing

• To freeze, arrange the cooked stuffing balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Ensure they are heated all the way through before serving.

FAQs

If you’re curious about these delightful stuffing balls, here are some common questions answered!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute ground turkey with ground chicken. The flavor will be slightly different but equally delicious.

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

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free bread cubes. The rest of the ingredients are already suitable for a gluten-free diet!

Can I add other ingredients to my stuffing balls?

Yes! You can customize your stuffing balls by adding nuts, different herbs, or vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms according to your taste preferences.

How long do Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls last after cooking?

Cooked stuffing balls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when kept in an airtight container.

What’s the best way to serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

These stuffing balls can be served as an appetizer or a side dish. Pair them with a simple salad or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to make these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! They’re not just easy and quick; they’re also perfect for cozy family dinners or as part of meal prep for busy weeks ahead. Enjoy every bite and share this wonderful dish with your loved ones. Happy cooking!