Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on a classic favorite, then these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are just what you need! They are a perfect blend of savory turkey and sweet cranberries, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even holiday feasts. I love how easy they are to whip up, and they always earn compliments at the dinner table. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, which is a total lifesaver!

These little bites of joy are not just tasty; they also pack a punch of flavor. Each bite is filled with the comforting essence of stuffing, combined with the tartness of cranberries. They make for a delightful appetizer or side dish that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: These stuffing balls come together in no time, perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and savory combination.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare them in advance and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve!
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy them as an appetizer or as part of your main meal – they fit any occasion.
• Healthy Twist: Using lean ground turkey makes these stuffing balls a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

I love how simple and wholesome the ingredients for these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are. You probably have most of them on hand already! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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 these stuffing balls is their versatility! You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have available. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use ground chicken or even quinoa for a vegetarian version.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some finely chopped bell peppers or carrots for added crunch.
• Change up the bread: Use whole grain or gluten-free bread cubes to suit your dietary needs.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños if you like 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 ensures that your stuffing balls will 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 flavorful combination sets the stage for delicious stuffing balls.

Step 3: Mix Turkey Mixture

In another bowl, combine your ground turkey with chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, dried sage, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your stuffing balls.

Step 4: Form Balls

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the turkey mixture to the bowl with the bread cubes. Gently mix until everything is well combined. Shape this mixture into golf ball-sized balls (about 1 ½ inches) and place them on a lined baking sheet. This step is important – shaping them well helps create that perfect bite size!

Step 5: Bake

Pop those baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

And there you have it—your very own Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are ready to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Making delicious stuffing balls can be a breeze with just a few simple tips that will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread cubes absorb moisture better, helping to create the perfect texture for your stuffing balls. Fresh bread can make them too mushy.

• Chill the Mixture: After mixing all your ingredients, let the mixture chill for about 30 minutes. This firms up the mixture and makes it easier to shape the balls without them falling apart.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the turkey mixture with the bread cubes. Overmixing can lead to tough stuffing balls. You want them tender and fluffy!

• Test with a Small Batch: Before baking all your stuffing balls, cook one or two in the oven. This way, you can adjust seasoning if needed!

• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like rosemary or parsley to customize the flavor profile of your stuffing balls. Fresh herbs can add a vibrant touch!

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are not only delicious but also versatile! Present them in various ways to impress your family and guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley adds color and freshness, enhancing the overall presentation.
• Cranberry Sauce: Serve with a side of cranberry sauce for dipping; it complements the flavors beautifully and adds a tangy contrast.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil and herbs brings a hearty element that pairs nicely with the stuffing balls.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and balance out the savory flavors of the stuffing balls; consider using garlic for an extra kick!
• Green Salad: A crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warm stuffing balls. Consider mixed greens tossed with sliced apples for added sweetness.
• Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans lightly seasoned add color and crunch to your plate, making for an appealing meal.

With these serving suggestions, you can turn this delightful recipe into a stunning meal that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy sharing these comforting bites with loved ones around your dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week, making your dinner planning so much easier.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• After baking, let the stuffing balls cool completely.
• Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, sealing well to prevent freezer burn.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffing balls in the refrigerator overnight.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the stuffing balls on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works wonderfully as a substitute for ground turkey in this recipe. It will still deliver great flavor and texture.

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

To make these stuffing balls gluten-free, simply use gluten-free bread cubes. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it an easy adaptation!

Can I add other vegetables to the stuffing mixture?

Yes! Feel free to get creative by adding other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. Just be sure to chop them finely so they mix well into the stuffing balls.

How long can I store leftover Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Leftover stuffing balls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delicious Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls as much as I do! They’re not just a fantastic addition to any meal but also a great way to enjoy a comforting dish throughout the week. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your results with family and friends—everyone will love them!