Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

If you’re looking for a cozy and delicious addition to your dinner table, these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are just the ticket! They are a perfect blend of savory turkey and sweet cranberries, creating a delightful bite that everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight or hosting a family gathering, these little gems are sure to impress. Plus, they are easy to make ahead of time, so you can enjoy more time with your loved ones.

What makes this recipe extra special is how comforting it feels. Each bite brings warmth and nostalgia, reminding us of those lovely family gatherings filled with laughter and joy. Trust me; once you try these stuffing balls, they will become a go-to favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These stuffing balls come together quickly, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy the flavor combination of turkey and cranberries—perfect for everyone at the table!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep them in advance and bake when you’re ready; they hold up wonderfully in the fridge.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of herbs and sweet dried cranberries creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely have on hand already. Here’s what you’ll need to make those scrumptious 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your own spin on these stuffing balls. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground chicken or even a plant-based ground meat for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some finely chopped bell peppers or carrots for an extra crunch and color.
• Change the herbs: Try using rosemary or oregano instead of sage and thyme to mix up the flavors.
• Make them spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give your stuffing balls a little kick!

How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat Oven

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

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the dried bread cubes, dried cranberries, finely chopped celery, and onion. This combination adds both texture and flavor to your stuffing balls.

Step 3: Prepare the Turkey Mixture

In another bowl, combine ground turkey with chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, sage, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is where all the savory goodness comes from!

Step 4: Form Balls

Add the turkey mixture to the bowl of bread cubes. Mix well until everything is combined. Shape this mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. This step helps ensure that each ball holds together during baking.

Step 5: Bake

Pop them in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen as they bake—a truly delightful experience!

These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are not just easy to make; they bring joy to every meal! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Making the perfect Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls is easy with a few helpful tips!

• Use stale bread cubes: Stale bread absorbs moisture better, creating a firmer texture that holds together nicely when baked.

• Don’t overmix the turkey mixture: Gently combining your ingredients will keep the stuffing balls tender and prevent them from becoming dense.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to modify herbs and spices according to your preference; this allows you to customize the flavor profile of your stuffing balls to suit your palate.

• Make ahead for convenience: Prepare the stuffing balls in advance and refrigerate them. You can bake them just before serving, making meal prep a breeze!

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas that will make your dish even more appealing!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds vibrant color and freshness to your dish.
• Cranberry sauce: Serving with a side of cranberry sauce enhances the sweet-tart flavor and complements the stuffing balls perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes, bring warmth and earthiness to your plate.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the savory stuffing balls.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and richness that pairs beautifully with the flavors of the turkey stuffing.
• Green beans almondine: Crisp-tender green beans tossed with toasted almonds create a delightful crunch alongside the soft stuffing balls.

With these serving suggestions, your Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are sure to impress at any gathering or family dinner! Enjoy crafting this delicious dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance, store them properly, and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your delicious creations fresh:

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

• Arrange the cooled stuffing balls in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Label and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

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

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about these tasty Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls.

Can I use other types of meat for the Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for ground turkey, you can substitute it with ground chicken or even a plant-based alternative if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.

How can I make my Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls healthier?

To boost the nutritional content, consider adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. You can also use whole grain bread cubes instead of white bread for added fiber.

Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time for the Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Yes! You can mix all your ingredients together and store the mixture in the fridge for up to a day before shaping and baking. This makes it super convenient for busy weeknights!

What should I serve with my Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

These stuffing balls pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. They also make great appetizers at gatherings!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired by this recipe for Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! They’re not only comforting and delicious but also offer flexibility for meal prep and entertaining. Enjoy bringing this dish to your table, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with family and friends. Happy cooking!