Add a festive twist to your holiday table with these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls! Packed with flavor, they’re easy to make and perfect as appetizers or side dishes.
A Holiday Favorite with a Twist
- Picture this: savory turkey, herby stuffing, and tart cranberries, all rolled into bite-sized, festive delights.
- These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion.
- Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re guaranteed to impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Flavorful: A perfect balance of savory, herby, and sweet flavors.
- Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep in advance and bake when needed.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Bite-sized goodness everyone will love!
Ingredients for Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground turkey | 1 lb |
| Stuffing mix (dry or prepared) | 2 cups |
| Dried cranberries | ½ cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Chicken broth (if using dry stuffing mix) | ½ cup |
| Onion (finely chopped) | ½ cup |
| Celery (finely chopped) | ½ cup |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Ground black pepper | ½ tsp |
How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- If using dry stuffing mix, combine it with chicken broth and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, prepared stuffing mix, dried cranberries, onion, celery, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Add the egg and mix until everything is well incorporated.
Step 3: Form the Balls
- Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into golf ball-sized portions.
- Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
Step 4: Bake the Stuffing Balls
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Perfect Stuffing Balls
- Moisture Balance: If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more chicken broth. If too wet, add breadcrumbs.
- Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop to ensure even cooking.
- Add Cheese: Mix in ½ cup of shredded Parmesan for an extra flavor boost.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the balls and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Variations and Customizations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free stuffing mix or breadcrumbs.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute turkey with mashed chickpeas or lentils.
- Extra Flavor: Add minced garlic or a pinch of sage and thyme for a herby kick.
- Cranberry Sauce Glaze: Brush the balls with cranberry sauce before baking for a sweet finish.
FAQ: Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Can I freeze these stuffing balls?
- Yes! Freeze them uncooked on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the cook time.
What can I serve with stuffing balls?
- Pair them with cranberry sauce, turkey gravy, or a fresh green salad.
Can I use leftover turkey?
- Absolutely! Finely chop cooked turkey and use it in place of ground turkey.
How long do these keep?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion: A Festive Bite-Sized Treat
- These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect addition to your holiday menu.
- Simple, flavorful, and versatile, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
- Try them this holiday season and make every bite count!