Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are like little flavor bombs of joy that burst in your mouth, mixing savory turkey with the sweet pop of cranberries. Imagine biting into a golden-brown ball that combines the best of Thanksgiving flavors, perfectly seasoned and just crispy enough to make your taste buds dance with delight.

I remember the first time I made these little delights; my family went from polite chewers to enthusiastic gobblers faster than you can say “second helping.” These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy dinners, or even as a fun appetizer at parties. Trust me; once you serve these, they will vanish faster than leftovers after a holiday feast.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These delicious cranberry turkey stuffing balls are quick and easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal
  • The sweet and savory flavor combination makes them irresistible for any palate
  • Their beautiful golden color adds visual appeal and elegance to any occasion
  • Versatile enough for holidays or casual gatherings, they fit seamlessly into any menu

I once served these at a family gathering, and the compliments kept rolling in—my aunt even requested the recipe for her next potluck!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ground Turkey: Use lean ground turkey for a healthier option that still brings delicious flavor.

  • Cranberries: Fresh or dried cranberries add a sweet-tart burst that complements the savory elements perfectly.

  • Bread Crumbs: Choose seasoned bread crumbs to enhance the flavor profile without adding extra spices.

  • Onion: A finely chopped onion adds depth and sweetness when sautéed until translucent.

  • Garlic: Minced garlic brings aromatic warmth that elevates every bite of these stuffing balls.

  • Herbs (Thyme and Parsley): Fresh herbs provide brightness and freshness; don’t skimp on them!

  • Egg: A beaten egg binds everything together, ensuring your stuffing balls hold their shape.

  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors in this delightful dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, warm some olive oil and add finely chopped onion and garlic. Cook until the onions turn translucent and release their sweet aroma.

Mix the Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, sautéed onions and garlic, bread crumbs, cranberries, thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, and beaten egg. Mix until well combined but be careful not to overwork it to keep them tender.

Shape into Balls: With clean hands (or rubber gloves if you’re fancy), scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet about an inch apart.

Bake Them Up!: Pop those beauties into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen like a warm hug from Grandma.

Serve Warm!: Once done baking, let them cool slightly before serving. Serve with dipping sauces like cranberry sauce or gravy for an added treat!

Enjoy your flavorful Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls that are perfect for any occasion!

You Must Know

  • These delightful cranberry turkey stuffing balls are perfect for any festive gathering
  • The sweet and savory combination creates a mouthwatering experience that will have your guests asking for seconds
  • Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making holiday cooking a breeze!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by prepping all your ingredients before mixing. Cook the turkey first, then combine it with the bread and seasoning. This ensures an even blend and prevents overcooking.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cranberries for raisins or add chopped nuts for extra crunch. You can even use different herbs to match your flavor preferences.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F until warm and crispy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • When preparing these cranberry turkey stuffing balls, consider using day-old bread for better texture
  • Always season thoroughly to enhance flavors
  • Don’t forget to let them cool before storing to maintain their crispiness!

You know, the first time I made cranberry turkey stuffing balls, my kitchen transformed into a chaotic mess. Flour everywhere and my cat eyeing the ingredients as if they were her next prey! But when my family tasted them, their smiles made all the chaos worth it.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use leftover turkey for these stuffing balls?

Absolutely! Leftover turkey adds great flavor and is perfect for this recipe.

How long can I freeze cranberry turkey stuffing balls?

You can freeze them for up to three months; just ensure they are well-wrapped.

What’s the best way to serve cranberry turkey stuffing balls?

Serve them warm with a side of gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping!

Print
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Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls


  • Author: Ethan Brooks
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 servings (48 stuffing balls) 1x

Description

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect blend of savory turkey and sweet cranberries, creating delightful bites that will elevate any holiday gathering or cozy dinner. These golden-brown morsels are easy to make and packed with flavor, making them an irresistible choice for festive occasions. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces, and watch them disappear quickly as your guests come back for seconds!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground turkey
  • 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until the onion is translucent.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, sautéed onions and garlic, bread crumbs, cranberries, thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, and beaten egg. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. 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: 4 stuffing balls (120g)
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Use day-old bread for better texture in the stuffing balls. For added crunch, consider mixing in chopped nuts or swapping cranberries for raisins. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.

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