Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are the ultimate holiday snack that combines savory turkey with the delightful zing of cranberries. Imagine biting into a golden, crispy exterior only to discover a warm stuffing bursting with flavors that make your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I freeze Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
- What herbs work best in stuffing balls?
- How do I know when they are cooked through?
- 📖 Recipe Card
These little morsels are perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties, or just because you deserve a treat! They remind me of my Aunt Marge, who always managed to sneak these onto the dinner table when no one was looking—much to the delight of my cousin and me. The anticipation of those stuffing balls was almost as thrilling as waiting for Santa Claus!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are easy to prepare and come together quickly
- Their sweet and savory flavor profile adds a festive touch to any meal
- Visually appealing, they look stunning on any platter and are versatile enough for appetizers or as part of a main course
I still remember the first time I made these; my friends devoured them so fast that I barely got one!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey keeps things light while offering a deliciously rich flavor. Feel free to substitute with chicken if you prefer.
Breadcrumbs: Use fresh breadcrumbs for better texture, but dried will work too; it’s all about personal preference.
Cranberries: Dried cranberries provide that sweet-tart flavor balance; choose plump ones for the best results.
Onion: Finely chopped onions add sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.
Celery: Chopped celery contributes crunchiness and freshness; it’s the veggie that brings everything together!
Herbs and Spices: Fresh thyme, sage, salt, and pepper elevate your stuffing balls’ flavor profile; don’t skimp on this part!
Eggs: Binding agents like eggs help hold everything together; use large eggs for optimal results.
Chicken Broth: A splash of chicken broth keeps everything moist and flavorful; low-sodium options work well here.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), creating an inviting warmth in your kitchen. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, add some oil and toss in your finely chopped onion and celery. Cook until they become soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes does the trick.
Mix the Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, dried cranberries, sautéed veggies, herbs, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated—think of it like giving them a big hug!
Add Moisture with Broth: Gradually pour in chicken broth while mixing until your mixture holds together but isn’t soggy. You want it moist but not swimming!
Shape into Balls: Using your hands (or an ice cream scoop if you’re feeling fancy), form small balls about 1-2 inches in diameter. Place them on your prepared baking sheet with a little space between each one.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Pop those beauties in the oven and bake for around 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Your kitchen will be filled with mouthwatering aromas that will have everyone flocking towards it!
These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls bring joy not just through their taste but also through their nostalgic ties to family gatherings. Enjoy every moment serving these delicious bites at your next celebration!
You Must Know
- Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful twist on traditional stuffing
- These savory bites pack flavor and are perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering
- The aroma of herbs and cranberries fills the kitchen, making everyone eager to dig in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Prepare the stuffing mixture, roll it into balls, and bake until golden brown for about 25-30 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap turkey for chicken or add nuts for crunch. Experiment with different herbs like sage or thyme for a personal touch that makes your dish stand out.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure the best flavor, let your stuffing mixture cool before shaping
- This prevents sogginess and allows flavors to meld beautifully
- Always taste-test your seasoning before rolling into balls; adjustments can make a world of difference!
I remember the first time I made these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. My family devoured them in minutes, leaving me with nothing but crumbs and joyful laughter echoing in my kitchen.
FAQ
Can I freeze Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking for later enjoyment.
What herbs work best in stuffing balls?
Thyme, sage, and rosemary create a wonderful flavor profile when combined with turkey.
How do I know when they are cooked through?
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls should be golden brown and firm to the touch when done.
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect festive treat, combining savory turkey and sweet cranberries in a crispy, golden package. These bite-sized delights are ideal for holiday gatherings or as a cozy snack at home. With their rich flavors and inviting aroma, they will become a hit at any table. Easy to make and even easier to devour, these stuffing balls will add a delicious touch to your celebrations.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sage, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add oil and sauté the onion and celery until soft (about 5 minutes).
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, cranberries, sautéed vegetables, herbs, salt, pepper, and eggs; mix gently.
- Gradually add chicken broth until the mixture holds together but isn’t soggy.
- Shape into 1-2 inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 stuffing balls (90g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
