Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

Cranberry turkey stuffing balls are an explosion of flavor that brings together the essence of Thanksgiving in a single bite. Imagine warm, savory turkey mingling with tangy cranberries, all wrapped up in a delightful, crunchy exterior. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table in eager anticipation.

These little bites of joy are perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy family dinners, or even game-day snacks. They promise a burst of flavor that will have your guests asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds. Trust me; you’ll want to make these every chance you get.

When I first made these cranberry turkey stuffing balls for my family gathering, the reactions were priceless. Everyone was reaching for more before they even finished their first!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ground Turkey: Choose lean ground turkey for a healthier option while keeping the flavors rich.

• Breadcrumbs: Use fresh breadcrumbs for better texture; they soak up flavors beautifully.

• Cranberries: Dried cranberries add sweetness and tartness; opt for unsweetened if you prefer less sugar.

• Onion: Finely chop the onion for maximum flavor infusion; sweet onions work best here.

• Celery: Slice celery finely to add a crunchy texture and fresh taste to the stuffing.

• Herbs (Thyme and Sage): Fresh herbs elevate the flavor; use dried if fresh isn’t available.

• Eggs: Use eggs as a binder; they help hold everything together perfectly.

• Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth so you can control the saltiness better.

• Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil keeps everything moist and enhances richness.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients on the counter. Chop the onion and celery finely to ensure they incorporate well into the mixture.

Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and celery, cooking until they’re translucent and aromatic—about 4-5 minutes.

Mix It Up: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, cranberries, sautéed veggies, herbs, eggs, and chicken broth. Mix until everything is well incorporated but avoid overmixing.

Shape Balls: Scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about one inch wide. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the stuffing balls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. The smell will drive everyone wild!

Serve & Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra herbs if desired; enjoy these crowd-pleasers hot or at room temperature!

Making cranberry turkey stuffing balls is not only simple but incredibly rewarding when you see those happy faces around your table enjoying them! Happy cooking!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting your turkey before preparing the stuffing balls. This way, you can use those delicious drippings for extra flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cranberries for dried apricots or add nuts for a delightful crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to keep them crispy.

Cooking these cranberry turkey stuffing balls reminds me of a holiday dinner where my cousin tried to sneak extra helpings—and failed miserably because they were just that good!

FAQ

Can I make cranberry turkey stuffing balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What can I substitute for turkey?

Chicken or even plant-based alternatives work well as substitutes in this recipe.

How do I make them gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bread crumbs instead of regular ones for a safe option.