Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and joy to any table, you’ve found it with these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls. They’re not only a delightful twist on traditional stuffing but also a fantastic way to make use of turkey in a fun, bite-sized form. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these little morsels are always a hit. The balance of savory turkey and sweet cranberries makes them a comforting treat that everyone can enjoy.

I love how versatile these stuffing balls are! Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer at a holiday party or as part of a cozy dinner, they never fail to impress. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them an ideal choice for meal prep or when you’re short on time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls come together in just a few simple steps—perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the flavor combo; it’s hard to resist such delicious bites!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare them ahead of time and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat, simplifying your meal planning.
• Healthy Twist: Using ground turkey keeps this recipe light while still being hearty and satisfying.
• Endless Flavor: The combination of herbs and dried cranberries creates an amazing taste that elevates any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls. You probably have many of these staples on hand already!

• 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! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground chicken or even a plant-based alternative if you want something vegetarian.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
• Change the fruit: Instead of cranberries, you could use dried apricots or raisins for a different fruity kick.
• Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a little heat in their dishes.

How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your stuffing balls cook evenly and become perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the dried bread cubes, cranberries, celery, and onion. This combination serves as the base for your stuffing balls, adding both flavor and texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Turkey Mixture

In another bowl, combine the ground turkey with chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, dried sage, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients well helps infuse the turkey with wonderful flavors that complement the stuffing.

Step 4: Form the Balls

Add the turkey mixture to your bowl of bread cubes. Gently combine until everything is well mixed. Shape this mixture into 1 ½-inch balls and place them onto a lined baking sheet. This shaping process allows each ball to hold its form during baking while ensuring every bite is full of goodness.

Step 5: Bake

Bake your Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls in the preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes until they are golden brown on top. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible! Baking until golden ensures they develop that lovely crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist.

Enjoy making these delightful bites! They’re sure to become a favorite at your table just like they are at mine.

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls can be a delightful experience, and a few handy tips can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use stale bread cubes: Stale bread absorbs moisture better and provides the perfect texture for stuffing balls. Fresh bread can become too soggy, so consider leaving your bread out a day beforehand or toasting it lightly.
• Chill the mixture: After combining the ingredients, let the mixture chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together and make shaping easier!
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to swap out sage and thyme for your favorite herbs. Rosemary, parsley, or even a hint of basil can add a unique twist that complements the turkey beautifully.
• Don’t skip the browning: For an extra flavor boost, consider broiling the stuffing balls for the last few minutes of baking. This will give them a crispy golden exterior that’s simply irresistible.
• Make ahead and freeze: These stuffing balls freeze well! Prepare a batch, bake them, let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven when you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

These delightful stuffing balls are not only delicious but also versatile in how you present them! Here are some fun ideas to make your meal truly special.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top adds a pop of color and enhances flavor.
• Cranberry sauce: A dollop of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce next to your stuffing balls can add a sweet-tart contrast that complements the savory turkey.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes provide a nutritious and colorful addition to your meal.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic or chives create a comforting pairing that balances well with the stuffing balls.
• Green salad: A light mixed greens salad with vinaigrette offers freshness and crunch, making it a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of your dish.
• Wild rice pilaf: A herbed wild rice pilaf brings earthy notes that harmonize beautifully with the turkey stuffing balls while adding texture.

Enjoy crafting your meal around these tasty Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! They’re sure to be a hit at any dinner table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious stuffing balls:

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Arrange the cooled stuffing balls on a baking sheet in a single layer.
• Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Transfer the frozen balls to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label and date, then freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the desired number of stuffing balls on a baking tray.
• Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these stuffing balls, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

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

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken for turkey. It will yield similar results and still be delicious!

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

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when kept in an airtight container.

Can I add other ingredients to my Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts, different herbs, or even some vegetables like bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.

Are Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, simply use gluten-free bread cubes instead of regular ones.

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

These stuffing balls are great as appetizers or served alongside your favorite sides during dinner. They pair wonderfully with cranberry sauce!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe inspires you to create something special in your kitchen! These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are not just tasty but also bring warmth and joy to any meal. Enjoy cooking them, sharing with loved ones, and savoring every delightful bite. Happy cooking!