Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on traditional stuffing, these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are just the ticket! They combine savory ground turkey with sweet dried cranberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors. What makes this recipe even more special is how simple it is to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether served as a side dish for your holiday feast or enjoyed as a quick dinner option, these stuffing balls are sure to bring everyone together around the table.

You’ll love how versatile and comforting these little bites are. Plus, they make great leftovers for meal prep! So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delicious recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have these tasty bites ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberries.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare them in advance and bake them when you’re ready to eat.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The cozy blend of sage and thyme brings warmth to every bite—a true comfort food favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this recipe. Gather your items, and let’s get cooking!

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 these stuffing balls is their flexibility! You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground chicken or even a plant-based alternative for a different flavor profile.
• Add extra veggies: Incorporate grated carrots or bell peppers for an added crunch and nutrition boost.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary to give it your personal touch.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re looking for a little heat in your stuffing balls!

How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your stuffing balls cook evenly and get that lovely golden-brown color.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the dried bread cubes, cranberries, celery, and onion. This combination creates the perfect base for our stuffing balls. The bread cubes will soak up all those wonderful flavors while baking!

Step 3: Create the Turkey Mixture

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

Step 4: Form Balls

Now comes the fun part! Add the turkey mixture to the bowl with bread cubes and gently mix until everything is well combined. Then shape this mixture into 1 ½-inch balls. Place them on a lined baking sheet so they bake evenly without sticking.

Step 5: Bake

Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown. This step allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully while giving you that delightful crispy exterior.

And there you have it—your very own batch of delicious Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save some for later; they make fantastic leftovers!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

These stuffing balls are sure to be a hit at your dinner table, and with a few helpful tips, you can make them even better!

• Use stale bread cubes: Stale or dried bread absorbs the flavors of the broth and seasonings better, resulting in a more flavorful stuffing ball. If you’re using fresh bread, simply toast it lightly before cubing.

• Don’t overmix: When combining the turkey mixture with the bread cubes, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to tough stuffing balls, so be gentle!

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Feel free to tweak the seasonings according to your preference. A little extra sage or thyme can enhance the flavor profile beautifully.

• Make ahead: These stuffing balls can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just shape them, cover, and when ready, pop them in the oven for an easy meal prep solution.

• Experiment with add-ins: Mix things up by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch, or even some chopped apples for an unexpected sweetness. The possibilities are endless!

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Serving these delicious cranberry and turkey stuffing balls can turn a simple meal into something special. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the savory flavor of the stuffing balls.
• Cranberry sauce: A small bowl of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce on the side enhances the dish’s flavors and provides a lovely contrast.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes bring warmth and color to your plate while balancing out the richness of the stuffing balls.

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for a classic pairing that soaks up any sauces and adds comfort to your meal. Consider using garlic or herbs in your mash for an added twist.

• Green salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty stuffing balls.

• Quinoa pilaf: This nutty side dish provides a healthy option that pairs well with turkey and complements the flavors of cranberries beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls will shine at any gathering! Enjoy creating this comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or festive occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, ensuring you have delicious, healthy options ready for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing balls to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• For best results, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• After baking, let the stuffing balls cool completely.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place frozen or refrigerated stuffing balls on a lined baking sheet.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.

FAQs

Got questions? Don’t worry! Here are some common inquiries about Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls that might help you out.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works well as a substitute in this recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary slightly.

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

You can easily make these stuffing balls gluten-free by using gluten-free bread cubes. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well!

What can I serve with Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

These stuffing balls pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even a creamy gravy for dipping. They make a fantastic addition to any holiday spread!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! They’re not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these little bites are sure to impress. Enjoy the flavors and warmth they bring to your table—happy cooking!