Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

If you’re looking for a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or festive family gatherings, you’ve come to the right place! These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. With the delightful combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberries, they bring a lovely balance of flavors to your table. Plus, they make great leftovers, so you can enjoy them throughout the week!

This recipe has become a favorite in my home because it’s versatile and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, these stuffing balls are sure to impress everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love these tasty bites! They’re a fun way to get everyone excited about dinner.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these stuffing balls in advance and bake them just before serving.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of turkey and cranberries creates a unique taste that is irresistible.
• Comfort Food Delight: These little morsels are not just food; they’re a hug on a plate!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! You probably have most of these staples in your kitchen already. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful 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! Feel free to get creative with these ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground chicken or even 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 nutrition boost.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper if you like a little heat in your stuffing balls.
• Change the herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary instead of sage and thyme for a fresh twist.

How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Before anything else, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your stuffing balls cook evenly and develop that lovely golden brown color as they bake.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the dried bread cubes, dried cranberries, finely chopped celery, and finely chopped onion. This combination creates a wonderful base filled with texture and flavor.

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 ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Form Balls

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the turkey mixture into the bowl with the bread cubes. Mix gently until combined. Shape this mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; they’ll turn out delicious regardless!

Step 5: Bake

Pop your baking sheet into the oven and let those beauties bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn golden brown and fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Enjoy your Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls hot from the oven!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Making these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls can be a delightful experience, especially with a few handy tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right bread: Use a mix of whole grain and white bread cubes for added flavor and texture. This combination creates a heartier stuffing ball that holds up well during baking.
• Don’t skip the rest period: Allowing the mixture to rest for 10-15 minutes after combining helps the flavors meld together. This resting period ensures each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Use a cookie scoop: For uniformity in size, use a cookie scoop when shaping your stuffing balls. This not only makes them look professional but also ensures even cooking.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. A pinch more sage or thyme can make all the difference.
• Make ahead and freeze: These stuffing balls can be made ahead of time and frozen. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for an easy weeknight meal.

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

When it comes to serving these delightful stuffing balls, presentation can elevate your dish from ordinary to extraordinary! Here are some ideas on how to impress your guests or family.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
• Cranberry sauce: A small dollop of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce on top provides a sweet contrast that enhances the overall taste.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted with olive oil and herbs creates a colorful and nutritious side that pairs well with the stuffing balls.
• Green salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the stuffing balls beautifully.
• Quinoa pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with broth and tossed with herbs provides a nutty flavor that complements the stuffing balls while adding an extra protein punch.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a comforting choice. Their smooth texture contrasts nicely with the hearty stuffing balls, making for a satisfying plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to enjoy delicious Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls that will surely become a favorite in your household! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, making your weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing balls to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Arrange the cooled stuffing balls in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, about 2 hours.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and label with the date. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffing balls in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

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

Can I make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls without turkey?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option.

How do I ensure my Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls stay moist?

Using enough chicken broth and ensuring they are not overcooked will help keep your stuffing balls moist and flavorful.

What can I serve with Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

These stuffing balls pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I add other ingredients to my stuffing balls?

Yes! Feel free to experiment by adding nuts, such as chopped pecans, or additional herbs like rosemary for extra flavor.

How long does it take to bake Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

They typically take about 20-25 minutes to bake at 375°F (190°C), so keep an eye on them until they’re golden brown!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls as much as I do! They’re not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with flavor that brings comfort to any meal. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or prepping for the week ahead, these tasty bites are sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!