Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are the kind of dish that makes you want to dance in your kitchen. Imagine crispy, golden-brown balls bursting with savory turkey and sweet-tart cranberries. The aroma wafting through your home will have everyone flocking to the kitchen, eager to dive in. miso glazed brussels sprouts They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy family dinners, or even as a snack while binge-watching your favorite series.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What are Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
- How do I store leftover Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
- Can I make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time?
- What can I serve with Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
- Conclusion for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls:
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now, if you’re like me, you might have had a “culinary disaster” moment in the past—maybe it involved a burnt roast or a soup that could double as wallpaper paste. But fear not! These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are foolproof and will have you looking like a gourmet chef in no time. chicken and wild rice soup So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are incredibly easy to make, ensuring minimal stress in the kitchen.
- The combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberries creates an unforgettable flavor explosion.
- Their golden-brown appearance makes them an eye-catching addition to any meal or gathering.
- Plus, they are versatile enough to serve as appetizers, sides, or snacks for any occasion.
Ingredients for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Turkey: Use lean ground turkey for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- Cranberries: Dried cranberries work best; they add sweetness and chewiness that balance the savory turkey.
- Breadcrumbs: Choose plain breadcrumbs as they help bind the mixture together while absorbing flavors.
- Eggs: A couple of eggs act as the glue for these stuffing balls, keeping everything held together.
- Onion and Celery: Finely diced onion and celery provide moisture and a subtle crunch; sauté them first for enhanced flavor.
- Herbs (sage and thyme): Fresh or dried herbs elevate the taste profile; they add that classic stuffing flavor we all love.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. butter braised cabbage recipe.
How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps with easy cleanup later.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a skillet over medium heat, melt a bit of butter. Add finely chopped onion and celery, sautéing until soft—about five minutes should do it. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, dried cranberries, eggs, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Your hands work best here—get ready to dive in!
Step 4: Shape Balls
Using your hands (or an ice cream scoop if you’re feeling fancy), form mixture into golf ball-sized balls—about two inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake
Pop those beauties into the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Trust me; the wait will be worth it!
Step 6: Serve
Transfer your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls onto a serving platter. Drizzle with gravy or serve alongside cranberry sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
With these instructions in hand, you’re well on your way to impressing friends and family alike with your culinary prowess! Enjoy these delightful bites as an appetizer at holiday gatherings or as part of a cozy dinner spread—they’re sure to become a new favorite!
You Must Know
- These delightful cranberry turkey stuffing balls are the perfect blend of holiday flavors, making your gatherings extra special.
- They’re easy to prepare and can be served as appetizers or a side dish, bringing smiles and satisfaction to every table.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect cranberry turkey stuffing balls, start by preheating the oven. While it warms up, mix your ingredients thoroughly. Shape the mixture into balls, then bake until golden brown and cooked through, ensuring they stay juicy inside.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your cranberry turkey stuffing balls! Swap out herbs for your favorites, add chopped nuts for crunch, or use leftover turkey for a more personal touch. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cranberry turkey stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F until warm, maintaining their delicious texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly moist stuffing balls, don’t overmix the ingredients; this keeps them tender.
- Use day-old bread for better absorption of flavors.
- Always taste your mixture before baking to adjust seasoning if needed.
I remember the first time I made these cranberry turkey stuffing balls for Thanksgiving. My family devoured them faster than I could say “seconds,” and now they expect me to make them every year!
FAQs:
What are Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious twist on traditional stuffing. They combine ground turkey with breadcrumbs, herbs, and dried cranberries to create flavorful bites. These savory balls make an excellent side dish or appetizer during holiday meals, especially around Thanksgiving. They offer a delightful crunch on the outside while remaining moist and flavorful inside. The addition of cranberries adds a hint of sweetness, balancing perfectly with the savory turkey and spices. For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Garlic Shrimp Recipe recipe.
How do I store leftover Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
To store leftover Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the stuffing balls. To freeze, spread them out on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Can I make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time! Prepare the mixture as directed and form the balls, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows flavors to meld beautifully. If you’d like to prepare them further in advance, consider freezing unbaked stuffing balls. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to baking time.
What can I serve with Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls pair well with various dishes. They complement roasted turkey or chicken beautifully and can be served alongside mashed potatoes and gravy for a festive meal. Additionally, they make an excellent appetizer when served with cranberry sauce or a tangy dipping sauce. For a complete holiday feast, pair these stuffing balls with green bean casserole or a fresh salad. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Scalloped Potatoes recipe.
Conclusion for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls:
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful addition to any meal, especially during holiday gatherings. Their combination of ground turkey and sweet cranberries creates a unique flavor profile that everyone will love. You can easily prepare them ahead of time for convenience and enjoy their versatility as both an appetizer and side dish. Remember to store leftovers properly for future enjoyment. Elevate your dining experience with these scrumptious stuffing balls!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful twist on classic stuffing, featuring savory ground turkey and sweet dried cranberries. These golden-brown bites are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a cozy snack. With their aromatic flavor and impressive appearance, they’re sure to become a favorite at any meal. Easy to prepare and versatile enough for appetizers or sides, these stuffing balls will elevate your dining experience.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 stalks celery, finely diced
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt a bit of butter. Sauté the diced onion and celery until soft, about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, cranberries, eggs, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well using your hands.
- Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized balls (about 2 inches in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve warm with gravy or cranberry sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffing ball (45g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
