Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and festive, you’ve come to the right place! These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are one of my go-to recipes for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a holiday gathering, these little bites of joy always steal the spotlight. They combine the savory goodness of turkey with the sweet pop of cranberries, making them perfect for all your meal prep needs.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up. You can even make them ahead of time, which is a lifesaver during busy weeknights or when hosting friends and family. Trust me, once you try these stuffing balls, they’ll become a regular in your rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delightful stuffing balls ready to bake in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the bite-sized shape and delicious flavors, making dinnertime stress-free!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare them in advance and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile dish: Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course; they fit into any meal plan.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of turkey and cranberries creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! These are pantry staples that blend together beautifully to create those delicious Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls.

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 its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on what you have or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground chicken or even plant-based ground meat for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary instead of dried sage and thyme.
• Try different fruits: Dried cherries or raisins can be great substitutes for cranberries if you want something new!

How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat Oven

First things first—let’s get that oven warmed up! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your stuffing balls cook evenly and become nice and golden brown.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together your dried bread cubes, cranberries, celery, and onion. This blend adds moisture and flavor to your stuffing balls.

Step 3: Make the Turkey Mixture

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

Step 4: Form Balls

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the turkey mixture to your bread mixture. Get your hands in there and shape everything into 1 ½-inch balls. Place them on a lined baking sheet so they don’t stick while baking.

Step 5: Bake

Pop those beautiful stuffing balls into your preheated oven. Bake them for about 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown on the outside. The aroma filling your kitchen will be simply irresistible!

And there you have it—your very own Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! Enjoy them hot from the oven or at room temperature; they’re sure to impress anyone who tries them!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure they’re absolutely perfect!

• Use Stale Bread: Using stale bread cubes gives your stuffing balls the right texture and helps them hold together better during baking.

• Chill the Mixture: After mixing the ingredients, let the mixture chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to form balls.

• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to taste the turkey mixture before forming the balls. If you prefer a more robust flavor, you can add additional herbs or spices according to your preference.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare these stuffing balls ahead of time! Just form them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This is especially handy for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.

• Check for Doneness: To ensure they’re perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer; stuffing balls should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are as versatile as they are delicious! Here are some fun ideas on how to present this hearty dish at your table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish.
• Cranberry Sauce: A small dollop of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce on top enhances the sweet-tart flavor profile beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes creates a colorful and nutritious plate.

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that complements the savory stuffing balls wonderfully.

• Green Salad: A light mixed greens salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances out the richness of the stuffing balls while adding a refreshing crunch.

• Gravy: A rich vegetarian gravy can be drizzled over the stuffing balls for added moisture and flavor, making each bite even more delightful.

With these serving suggestions, your Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on your dinner 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 to enjoy throughout the week or to serve at gatherings. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat them:

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 cooling, arrange the stuffing balls in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, usually about 1-2 hours.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, labeling with the date.
• Use within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For refrigerated stuffing balls, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place them on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• For frozen stuffing balls, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes of cooking time.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delicious Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I use different bread types for the stuffing balls?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite bread types such as whole wheat or sourdough. Just ensure they are dried out enough to absorb moisture without becoming mushy.

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

Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before storing!

Can I make these stuffing balls gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free bread cubes and check that your chicken broth is also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty dish!

What can I serve with Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

These stuffing balls pair wonderfully with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or even as a fun appetizer during holiday gatherings.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to create these delightful Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! They’re more than just a recipe; they’re a way to bring warmth and comfort into your home. Enjoy making them for family meals or special occasions, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences! Happy cooking!