The aroma of roasting turkey mingling with sweet cranberries wafts through the air, promising a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance. These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are not just a side dish; they are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug from Grandma, perfect for your holiday table or any cozy gathering.
Imagine biting into these delightful morsels, where savory turkey meets tangy cranberries, and all of it is hugged tightly by seasoned stuffing. It’s the kind of dish that can turn any meal into a festive occasion and leave you wondering how something so simple could taste so extraordinary.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can whip these up in no time, even on a busy day.
- The flavor profile balances savory and sweet, making them irresistible.
- Their golden-brown exterior is visually appealing and sure to impress guests.
- Versatile enough to serve as appetizers or a side dish at your next holiday feast.
Ingredients for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey provides great flavor without being overly greasy. Look for fresh options for the best results.
- Stuffing Mix: Use your favorite brand or homemade stuffing mix for added texture and flavor.
- Dried Cranberries: Sweet and tart, these add a pop of color and flavor. Opt for unsweetened if you prefer less sugar.
- Chicken Broth: This helps to moisten the mixture while adding depth of flavor; low-sodium broth is a good choice.
- Onion and Celery: Sautéed until soft, they bring an aromatic base to the stuffing balls that elevates their taste.
- Herbs (Thyme & Sage): Fresh or dried herbs give that classic stuffing aroma and flavor profile.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter. Add finely chopped onion and celery, sauté until soft—about five minutes should do it.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, sautéed vegetables, stuffing mix, dried cranberries, chicken broth, and herbs. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
Step 4: Form Balls
Using your hands (or an ice cream scoop if you’re fancy), form the mixture into golf ball-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake
Pop those beauties in the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell divine!
Step 6: Serve
Transfer to a serving platter and watch them disappear as friends and family flock like turkeys at Thanksgiving! You can drizzle them with extra gravy or serve with cranberry sauce on the side for an extra kick.
And there you have it—Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls that are sure to steal the show at any dinner table! Enjoy every bite while laughing over stories shared with loved ones; after all, food tastes better when it’s accompanied by good company.
You Must Know
- These delectable cranberry turkey stuffing balls are not just a delicious way to enjoy leftovers; they also bring a festive flair to any meal.
- Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the perfect cranberry turkey stuffing balls, start by cooking your turkey until it’s golden brown. While it cools, mix your stuffing ingredients. Form the balls and bake them until crispy on the outside. It’s a one-pan wonder!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your cranberry turkey stuffing balls! Swap out turkey for chicken or add in some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist. You can even sprinkle in herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cranberry turkey stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring they stay crispy on the outside.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Start with day-old bread for a better texture in your stuffing balls.
- Ensure your mixture is moist but not soggy to hold together well when baking.
- Always taste your mixture before forming the balls—seasoning is key!
Sometimes I whip these up for family gatherings, and watching everyone dig in is pure joy! My cousin once declared them “the best thing since sliced bread,” which was quite the compliment from a self-proclaimed food critic!
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
To make delicious Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, you need ground turkey, dried cranberries, breadcrumbs, onion, celery, garlic, and various herbs like sage and thyme. Additionally, you’ll require chicken broth to moisten the mixture. These ingredients blend perfectly to create a savory and slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with holiday meals. Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also yields flavorful stuffing balls that everyone will love.
How do I store leftover Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
After cooking the Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, let them cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffing balls by placing them on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This makes for a convenient meal option later.
Can I make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls a day in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients as per the recipe and form them into balls. Then, cover the formed balls with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to cook them, just bake as directed in your recipe. Making them ahead saves time during busy holiday meals while still delivering a fresh taste at your gathering.
Are there any variations for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Certainly! There are various ways to customize your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. For instance, you can add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch or incorporate different herbs such as rosemary or parsley for added flavor depth. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. You could also experiment with adding diced apples or even cheese for a unique twist that complements the sweetness of cranberries perfectly.
Conclusion for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls :
In conclusion, Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls make a delightful addition to any meal, especially during holidays. Using simple ingredients like ground turkey and dried cranberries creates a flavorful dish that everyone will enjoy. Storing leftovers is easy—just keep them refrigerated or frozen for future meals. Additionally, don’t hesitate to experiment with variations to suit your taste preferences. These stuffing balls are not only delicious but also versatile enough to adapt for every occasion!
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 stuffing balls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight your guests with these savory and sweet Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, perfect for holiday feasts or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 cups stuffing mix
- 1 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened preferred)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 2 tablespoons butter (for sautéing)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped onion and celery; sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, sautéed vegetables, stuffing mix, dried cranberries, chicken broth, thyme, and sage. Mix until well combined.
- Form Balls: Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy with extra gravy or cranberry sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 115
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: For added flavor, feel free to incorporate sautéed mushrooms or different herbs like rosemary. These stuffing balls can be made ahead of time—just refrigerate formed balls overnight before baking.
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