Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Spread the love

Why Make This Recipe

Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful addition to any meal, making them perfect for gatherings or family dinners. These tasty bites bring together the savory flavor of turkey with the sweetness of dried cranberries, creating a unique taste that leaves everyone wanting more. They are easy to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and can be served as an appetizer or a side dish. The combination of texture from the stuffing mix and the burst of flavor from the cranberries will surely impress your guests and family alike.

These stuffing balls not only taste great, but they are also versatile and can fit into various dietary preferences. They can be made ahead of time and served warm, making them a convenient option for busy cooks. Their attractive appearance and delicious aroma make them a showstopper on any table.

How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Let’s dive into the details of making these flavorful stuffing balls! The recipe is straightforward, consisting of easy-to-find ingredients. You will be delighted at how quickly you can prepare this dish. Whether you are cooking for a holiday meal or a simple weeknight dinner, Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls will fit perfectly into your menu.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls:

1 pound ground turkey
1 cup dried cranberries
2 cups stuffing mix
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup chopped celery
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your stuffing balls:

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the balls cook evenly and become nicely golden brown.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, stirring occasionally. Sauté them until they are softened, which typically takes about 3-5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the ground turkey, dried cranberries, stuffing mix, and the sautéed onion and celery. Pour in the chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it is well combined. Be sure not to overwork the mixture; combine until all the ingredients are nicely distributed.
Form the Balls: Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter. Place these balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent them from sticking and make clean-up easier.
Bake the Stuffing Balls: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You want them to be cooked through and have a nice golden appearance on the outside.
Serve: Once they are done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These stuffing balls are best enjoyed warm as an appetizer.

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are a few suggestions:

Appetizer: Serve them on a platter with toothpicks or small skewers for easy handling at parties or gatherings. They can be paired with dips such as cranberry sauce or a honey mustard dip for added flavor.
Main Dish: For a more substantial meal, serve the stuffing balls with a side of steamed vegetables and cranberry sauce. They can be a great alternative for those looking for a lighter option compared to traditional meat dishes.
Garnish: Add some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top when serving for a pop of color. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a hint of freshness to the dish.

How to Store Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

If you have leftovers or wish to make them ahead of time, storing your stuffing balls properly is essential:

In the Refrigerator: Place any leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat them in the oven to restore warmth and crispiness.
In the Freezer: To store for a longer period, freeze the uncooked or cooked stuffing balls. If they are uncooked, wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months. If they are cooked, similarly, store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat from frozen, baking them at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes if cooked, or follow the cooking instructions if they are uncooked.

Tips to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

To make your Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls stand out, consider these helpful tips:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables like onion and celery makes a noticeable difference in flavor. Aim for freshness to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Customize with Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the mixture. Thyme, sage, or other traditional stuffing seasonings can elevate the flavor even more.
Make a Test Batch: Before you make a full batch, try cooking a small portion to see if the seasoning levels are to your liking. This allows you to adjust flavors without wasting ingredients.
Add Cheese: If you like cheese, adding a little shredded cheese to the mixture can boost flavor and take the texture to another level.
Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix just enough to incorporate everything. Overmixing the turkey can make the stuffing balls dense.

Variation

There are many variations you can make to adapt this recipe to your taste or dietary needs:

Vegetarian Option: Replace ground turkey with a plant-based meat alternative or omit it entirely, using more vegetables like mushrooms or lentils as a base.
Different Fruits: Instead of dried cranberries, try using raisins, chopped apples, or apricots for a twist on flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the mixture to spice things up!

FAQs

Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. You can also form the balls and freeze them before cooking.
Can I bake these stuffing balls instead of frying them?
Yes, this recipe is designed for baking, which is a healthier option compared to frying.
How can I tell when the stuffing balls are cooked through?
The stuffing balls should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through in the center, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What can I serve with Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?
They pair well with cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them as part of a larger spread for a holiday meal.
Can I substitute ground turkey with another meat?
Yes, ground chicken, pork, or beef can effectively replace ground turkey in this recipe.

Enjoy making, serving, and savoring your Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! Not only are they delicious, but they also create a warm and inviting atmosphere around the dining table. These stuffing balls are certain to become a cherished dish in your recipe repertoire.