Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that combines festive flavors with comforting goodness, Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are an absolute must-try. These little bites are bursting with juicy ground turkey, tangy dried cranberries, and the classic savory notes of sage and thyme, all wrapped in a tender, golden crust. Perfect as an appetizer, side, or even a main course for a light meal, these stuffing balls bring warm holiday vibes to any table but are so easy to make that they’re destined to become a year-round favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the balance of flavors and textures just right in Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls is all about simple, fresh ingredients that work beautifully together. Each component adds its own special touch to make these stuffing balls irresistible.

• Ground turkey: A lean and juicy base that keeps the stuffing balls moist without overwhelming heaviness.
• Dried bread cubes: Provide the perfect structure and a classic stuffing texture that holds everything together.
• Dried cranberries: Offer a pop of tart sweetness that cuts through the savory flavors with a festive flair.
• Celery: Adds a refreshing crunch and a subtle earthiness that brightens the mix.
• Onion: Gives a mild sweetness and aromatic depth that infuses every bite.
• Chicken broth: Keeps the mixture moist and infuses it with a gentle savory background note.
• Unsalted butter, melted: Brings richness and helps everything bind beautifully.
• Egg, beaten: The natural binder that keeps the balls intact during baking.
• Dried sage: A classic herb with a warm, slightly peppery flavor essential for that traditional stuffing taste.
• Dried thyme: Adds subtle herbal earthiness to round out the spice profile.
• Garlic powder: Provides a mellow garlic punch that enhances the savory notes.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into crisp focus.

How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by heating your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C)—this ensures it’s hot and ready for baking your stuffing balls to a perfect golden brown. Meanwhile, get your bowls ready for mixing the delicious components.

Step 2: Combine the Bread Mixture

In a large bowl, gently toss together the dried bread cubes, dried cranberries, finely chopped celery, and onion. This mixture forms the hearty base of your stuffing balls, blending soft and chewy textures with bursts of tangy, vegetal freshness.

Step 3: Mix the Turkey and Seasonings

In a separate bowl, whisk together the ground turkey, chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, sage, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This flavorful blend infuses the meat with warmth and moisture, ensuring each bite is succulent and well-seasoned.

Step 4: Combine and Shape

Pour the turkey mixture into the bowl with the bread mixture, folding everything together gently but thoroughly. Once combined, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls, packing them just enough to hold their shape without squeezing out the tender crumb.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Arrange the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing a little space between each. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (74°C) for safety and perfect juiciness.

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary not only add a pop of vivid green color but also complement the herbal notes already baked into the balls. Sprinkle some finely chopped parsley on top before serving or tuck a small sprig of rosemary beside each for a fancy, festive touch.

Side Dishes

Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls play well with traditional sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or a crisp green salad. Their savory-sweet flavor profile is versatile enough to pair beautifully with many dishes, making holiday or everyday meals feel special.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning appetizer at your next gathering, serve the stuffing balls with a tangy cranberry dipping sauce or a smooth gravy on the side. You can also skewer them with toothpicks and sprinkle a little crumbled feta or toasted nuts for added texture and flavor bursts that your guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers — which might be unlikely because these are so delicious — store Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, ready to be enjoyed as a quick snack or meal addition.

Freezing

These stuffing balls freeze beautifully! After baking, let them cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, where they’ll keep for up to 3 months. Just thaw before reheating for an easy meal anytime.

Reheating

To warm up leftover Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls, bake them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but baking helps keep their lovely crispy edges intact.

FAQs

Can I make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground turkey with plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils to maintain the texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version that still captures the heart of the recipe.

Are these stuffing balls gluten-free?

The traditional recipe calls for dried bread cubes, which contain gluten. To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free bread cubes or gluten-free stuffing mix. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this switch simple.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries can be used, but they are much more tart and contain more moisture. If you choose fresh, consider lightly cooking them with a bit of sugar first or using fewer cranberries to balance the flavors and maintain the right texture.

What is the best way to ensure the stuffing balls stay moist?

The combination of melted butter, chicken broth, and the egg helps lock in moisture. Be careful not to overbake, and check the internal temperature to avoid drying out. If you feel the mixture is a bit dry, add a splash more broth before shaping.

Can I add other herbs or spices?

Definitely! Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are quite versatile; you can add rosemary, parsley, or even a pinch of nutmeg for an extra festive kick. Just keep the seasoning balanced to let the turkey and cranberry flavors shine.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls that makes every bite feel like a warm hug from the inside. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or just craving a cozy, flavorful snack, this recipe is a winner every time. I can’t wait for you to try these—your taste buds will thank you!

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