Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

If you’re looking for a cozy recipe that brings warmth to your table, let me introduce you to my beloved Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls. This dish is not just about the flavors; it’s about the memories we create while making and sharing them. I love how the combination of ground turkey, sweet cranberries, and savory herbs creates a comforting bite that feels like a warm hug.

These stuffing balls are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and delicious but also shine at family gatherings or holiday feasts. They’re easy to prepare, making them a go-to option for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-Friendly: Everyone in the family will love these tasty bites, making dinner time a breeze.
• Quick Preparation: With simple steps, you’ll have these delicious little balls ready in no time!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep them ahead of time and simply bake when you’re ready to eat.
• Packed with Flavor: The blend of turkey and cranberries provides a delightful balance of savory and sweet.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Enjoy them as snacks or add them to salads for a nutritious twist!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome, allowing for a flavorful dish without any fuss. Gather these pantry staples and fresh items to create your 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 swap out ingredients or add new flavors based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground chicken or even quinoa for a meatless version.
• Add veggies: Incorporate chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Change up the flavor: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley to suit your taste.
• Make it spicy: Toss in some red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat!

How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your stuffing balls cook evenly and become perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 3: Prepare 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 is crucial as it binds everything together beautifully.

Step 4: Form the Balls

Add the turkey mixture to your bread cube mixture. With clean hands, shape this mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls. Place them on a lined baking sheet; this makes cleanup easier later!

Step 5: Bake

Now it’s time to bake! Place your stuffed balls in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen—it’s pure comfort food magic!

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls as they bring warmth and joy to your meals!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Making the perfect stuffing balls is all about attention to detail, and these tips will help you create a deliciously satisfying dish every time.

• Use day-old bread: Using slightly stale bread cubes helps them absorb the moisture from the turkey mixture better, resulting in a more flavorful and cohesive stuffing ball.

• Don’t overmix: When combining the turkey mixture with the bread cubes, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough stuffing balls instead of tender, fluffy bites.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone has different preferences when it comes to seasoning. Feel free to taste the mixture before forming the balls and adjust the herbs or spices according to your liking.

• Experiment with add-ins: If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch, or some fresh herbs like parsley for a burst of freshness.

• Make ahead and freeze: These stuffing balls freeze beautifully! Prepare them ahead of time and freeze them before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, just bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls not only make for a delightful centerpiece but can also be served in various creative ways that are sure to impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme on top adds a pop of color and freshness that enhances both presentation and flavor.
• Cranberry sauce: Serve with a side of tangy cranberry sauce for dipping; it complements the savory stuffing balls perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted with olive oil brings out their natural sweetness and pairs wonderfully with the stuffing balls.

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, bell peppers, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast while keeping it healthy.

• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that makes any meal feel special—plus they’re perfect for soaking up any extra flavors on your plate!

Now that you have your pro tips and serving ideas ready, get excited about creating delicious Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls that everyone will love! Perfect for gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious stuffing balls.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing balls to cool completely.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Arrange the cooled stuffing balls in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until firm, about 1-2 hours.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the stuffing balls on a baking sheet.
• Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls:

Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great alternative and will work just as well in this recipe, giving you similar flavor and texture.

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

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free bread cubes. You can also ensure that any broth used is certified gluten-free.

Can I customize the herbs in Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley to suit your taste preferences. Just keep the proportions similar for best results.

What can I serve with Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

These stuffing balls pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. They make a delightful addition to any holiday table!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! They’re not just delicious but also incredibly versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for dinner or looking for meal prep ideas, these little bites of comfort are sure to bring warmth to your table. Enjoy every moment of cooking, and feel free to share your experiences with me—happy cooking!