There’s something magical about the aroma of Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls wafting through your kitchen, isn’t there? Imagine tender turkey mingling with the sweetness of dried cranberries, all wrapped up in a delightful stuffing. It’s like Thanksgiving decided to throw a party at your dinner table, and everyone showed up dressed in their best flavors.
You know those moments when food brings everyone together? Picture this: you’ve just pulled these golden-brown beauties from the oven, and as you take that first bite, it feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a cozy Sunday dinner, these stuffing balls are perfect for any occasion. Trust me; once you try them, you’ll be dreaming about them long after the plates are cleared.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are incredibly easy to prepare and require minimal cooking skills
- The sweet and savory flavor profile will have everyone coming back for seconds
- Their visual appeal makes them a standout dish at any gathering
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or a main dish!
Ingredients for Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Turkey: Opt for lean ground turkey for a healthier option while ensuring it’s juicy and flavorful.
- Dried Cranberries: These little gems add sweetness and a delightful chewiness that perfectly balances the savory flavors.
- Breadcrumbs: Use fresh or dried breadcrumbs as they help bind everything together while providing texture.
- Onion: Finely chopped onion adds depth of flavor; sauté it first for enhanced sweetness.
- Celery: Chopped celery gives these stuffing balls a nice crunch and freshness that brightens every bite.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to keep the flavors balanced without overwhelming saltiness.
- Herbs (Thyme & Sage): Fresh or dried herbs elevate the stuffing with aromatic notes; adjust according to your taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In a skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and celery. Sauté until they’re soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes—letting those aromas dance around your kitchen like they’re auditioning for a Broadway show.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, sautéed veggies, breadcrumbs, dried cranberries, herbs, and enough chicken broth to moisten everything without turning it into soup. Mix well but don’t go all Hulk on it; gentle hands work best here!
Step 4: Shape Your Balls
Using your hands (yes, get ready to get messy), form small balls about the size of golf balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet. They should look cute but not too perfect—after all, we’re going for comfort food here!
Step 5: Bake Them Up
Pop those bad boys into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. The smell will have you doing an impromptu happy dance—don’t worry; no one’s judging!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving. They’re fabulous on their own but can also be paired with gravy or cranberry sauce if you’re feeling extra fancy.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Now that you’ve got this wonderful recipe under your belt, it’s time to gather friends or family around the table. Enjoy your Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls while reminiscing about old memories or making new ones over delicious food!
You Must Know
- These delightful cranberry and turkey stuffing balls are not just delicious; they’re a fantastic way to use leftovers
- Their sweet and savory combination makes them a hit at any gathering
- Easy to make, they add a festive flair to your table while being incredibly satisfying
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfectly cooked cranberry and turkey stuffing balls, start by preheating your oven. While it warms up, mix your ingredients in a bowl. Shape and place them on a baking sheet, then bake until golden brown. Simple, right?
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize these stuffing balls! Swap turkey for chicken or add some chopped vegetables for extra crunch. You can even experiment with different herbs or spices to match your taste preferences. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cranberry and turkey stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring they stay crispy on the outside.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect cranberry and turkey stuffing balls, ensure your mixture is well combined without being overmixed
- Use stale bread for better texture and let them cool before storing for optimal flavor retention
Sometimes I think I should’ve opened a restaurant instead of a blog; my friends can’t get enough of these little bites! One friend exclaimed they were better than her grandma’s recipe—and trust me, that’s saying something!
FAQs:
What are Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are delightful bite-sized appetizers made from a mixture of turkey, breadcrumbs, and cranberries. They are seasoned with herbs and spices, then shaped into balls and baked or fried until golden brown. These savory treats combine the rich flavors of turkey with the tartness of cranberries, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or any festive occasion.
How do I store leftover Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?
To store leftover Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. You can refrigerate them for up to three days or freeze them for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. This way, you can savor their delicious flavor long after your initial meal.
Can I make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time for convenience. Prepare the mixture and shape it into balls, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them for later use. Just ensure they are fully cooked before serving.
What can I serve with Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls pair wonderfully with various dips and sauces. Consider serving them with cranberry sauce, gravy, or a tangy mustard dip to enhance their flavor. Additionally, they go well alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. These options will elevate your dining experience while complementing the stuffing balls perfectly.
Conclusion for Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls:
Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls offer a flavorful combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberries in a convenient form. They are easy to prepare ahead of time and perfect for entertaining guests during holidays or special occasions. With simple storage options and versatile serving suggestions, these stuffing balls will surely impress your family and friends. Enjoy crafting this delicious recipe that brings festive flavors to your table!
Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings (20 stuffing balls) 1x
Description
Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful combination of savory ground turkey and sweet dried cranberries, all enveloped in a cozy stuffing mix. Perfect for Thanksgiving feasts or intimate gatherings, these bite-sized treats are easy to prepare and sure to impress. With their golden-brown crust and flavorful interior, serve them warm with gravy or cranberry sauce for an unforgettable dish that will have your guests coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
- 2 tsp fresh sage (or 1 tsp dried)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté the onion and celery until soft (about 5 minutes).
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, cranberries, herbs, and enough chicken broth to moisten without making it soupy.
- Form the mixture into golf ball-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let cool slightly before serving with your choice of sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
