Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that combines comfort with a hint of festive cheer, you’ve come to the right place! These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly easy to whip up. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe has become a favorite in my home. The combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberries is simply irresistible.

These little bites of joy can be enjoyed as a main course or as an appetizer. They’re great for meal prep too, making them ideal for those nights when you need something quick yet satisfying. Let’s dive into why you’ll love these stuffing balls!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious stuffing balls ready in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the flavorful combination of turkey and cranberries.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare them in advance and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious flavor: The balance of savory and sweet makes these stuffing balls a hit at any table!
• Versatile: Great as a main dish or as finger food at parties.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create the perfect Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls. You might already have most of them in your pantry!

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 how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal tastes.

• Swap the protein: Try ground chicken or even plant-based alternatives for a lighter option.
• Change up the herbs: Use fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
• Add veggies: Sneak in some grated carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular bread cubes with gluten-free ones to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because starting off with a hot oven helps your stuffing balls bake evenly, resulting in that lovely golden-brown exterior.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the dried bread cubes, cranberries, celery, and onion. This combination adds texture and flavor to your stuffing balls. The sweetness of the cranberries will play perfectly against the savory turkey.

Step 3: Prepare the Turkey Mixture

In another bowl, combine the ground turkey, chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, sage, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 4: Form Balls

Now comes the fun part! Add the turkey mixture to your bread cube mix. Using your hands (or a spoon if you prefer), shape this mixture into 1½-inch balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. Making sure they are uniform in size will help them cook evenly.

Step 5: Bake

Pop those beauties into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make it hard to wait! Baking them until golden ensures they are crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside.

Enjoy these delicious Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls as part of your next meal; I promise they will become a beloved addition to your recipe collection!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Making these stuffing balls is a breeze, but a few extra tips will elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use Stale Bread Cubes: Stale bread absorbs moisture better, preventing your stuffing balls from becoming soggy. If you don’t have stale bread, simply toast fresh bread cubes lightly before using them.

• Chill the Mixture: After combining the ingredients, let the mixture chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to form the balls without them falling apart.

• Experiment with Herbs: While sage and thyme are classic choices, feel free to add other herbs like rosemary or parsley for a more personalized flavor profile. Fresh herbs can also enhance the aroma and taste of your dish.

• Check for Doneness: Ensure your stuffing balls are cooked thoroughly by using a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees they’re not only delicious but safe to eat.

• Make Ahead: These stuffing balls can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Just bake them right before serving for a quick, satisfying meal on busy nights!

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Serving these delicious Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls is just as fun as making them! Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or hosting friends, here are some thoughtful presentation ideas.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the savory flavors.
• Cranberry Sauce: Serving with a side of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce enhances the tartness and provides a delightful contrast to the savory stuffing balls.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A colorful mix of seasonal roasted vegetables—like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes—adds nutrition and vibrant colors to your plate.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, bell peppers, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the hearty stuffing balls.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic or herbs make for classic comfort food that pairs beautifully with these stuffing balls.
• Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans with slivered almonds provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that complements your dish perfectly.

Enjoy creating wonderful meals with these tips and serving suggestions! Your Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls will be a hit at any table.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making your weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat them so you can enjoy this tasty dish whenever you like.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Place the cooked stuffing balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Freeze them for about an hour until they are firm.
• Transfer the frozen balls to a freezer-safe bag or container and label with the date. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Arrange the stuffing balls on a baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• If reheating from the fridge, bake for about 10-15 minutes at the same temperature.

FAQs

You might have some questions about making these delicious Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls. Here are some common inquiries!

Can I substitute the ground turkey in Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Absolutely! You can use ground chicken or even a plant-based meat substitute if you’re looking for a different option.

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

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free bread cubes and ensure that your chicken broth is also gluten-free.

Can I add other ingredients to my stuffing balls?

Certainly! Feel free to include chopped nuts, different herbs, or even vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

How long can I keep leftovers of Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in crafting these delightful Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! They’re not just tasty but also versatile and perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Enjoy every bite as you create warm memories around your dinner table. Happy cooking!

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