Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

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Why Make This Recipe

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are not just delicious; they are a fantastic way to use up any leftover turkey from your holiday meals. This recipe combines the savory taste of turkey and stuffing with the sweet, tart flavor of dried cranberries, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering or simply looking for a tasty weeknight dinner option, these stuffing balls are sure to please everyone at the table.

They are incredibly versatile and can be served as an appetizer, a main dish, or even a side. Plus, they are easy to make and require only a few ingredients, making them perfect for those busy days when you want something tasty but don’t have a lot of time. The combination of flavors and textures will leave your family and friends asking for more.

How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Making Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls is easy and fun. With just a few steps, you can prepare this mouth-watering dish that is sure to impress. Below is a detailed guide on how to create these flavorful bites.

Ingredients

To make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, you will need the following ingredients:

2 cups cooked turkey (shredded or chopped)
3 cups prepared stuffing
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup chicken broth (or turkey broth)
1/4 cup peas (optional)
1 egg (beaten)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
Salt & pepper to taste
Cranberry sauce (for serving)

Directions

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your stuffing balls cook evenly and become nicely golden brown.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey, prepared stuffing, dried cranberries, peas (if you are using them), beaten egg, and chicken broth. Mix everything together well until all the ingredients are evenly combined. You can use your hands or a large spoon for this step. Ensuring that the mixture is uniform will help the balls hold together during baking.
Form the Stuffing Balls: Take a handful of the mixture and roll it into golf ball-sized portions. The size is up to you, but keeping them uniform helps with even cooking. Place the formed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. The parchment paper will prevent them from sticking to the baking sheet and make cleaning up easier.
Bake Them: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. The stuffing balls should become golden brown and be heated through. You can check them by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean, they are ready.
Garnish and Serve: Once baked, take the stuffing balls out of the oven and let them cool for a minute. Garnish them with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve with cranberry sauce on the side for dipping. The sweet and tangy cranberry sauce complements the savory stuffing balls beautifully.

How to Serve Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls can be served in various ways that suit different occasions:

As an Appetizer: Serve these stuffing balls at parties as bite-sized appetizers. Place them on a platter with a bowl of warm cranberry sauce in the center for dipping. This presentation is not only appealing but encourages guests to help themselves.
As a Main Course: For a hearty family meal, serve the stuffing balls alongside traditional sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. This will create a balanced dish that everyone will enjoy.
As a Side: They can also be served alongside turkey or chicken dishes. The flavors complement each other and add a delightful twist to your standard dinner.
Watch Parties or Casual Gatherings: These stuffing balls are perfect for game day or casual gatherings. They are easy to grab and eat while socializing, making them an excellent finger food option.

How to Store Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

If you have leftovers or want to prepare these stuffing balls in advance, proper storage will keep them fresh:

Refrigeration: Once completely cooled, place the stuffing balls in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat them again, simply reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–15 minutes until hot. You can also microwave them, but reheating in the oven keeps them crispy on the outside.
Freezing: Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls can also be frozen for later use. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, you can bake them directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Tips to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Chop the Ingredients Finely: Ensuring that the turkey and any other mixed ingredients are chopped finely will help the balls hold together better and create a more uniform texture.
Use Leftover Stuffing: If you have leftover stuffing from a previous meal, this is the perfect use for it. It adds a familiar flavor that everyone will love.
Don’t Overmix: While it’s essential to combine the ingredients well, overmixing can make the stuffing balls tough. Mix just until combined.
Experiment with Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs can add extra flavor. Consider adding thyme, sage, or rosemary for added depth.
Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your mixture before forming the balls. Add more salt and pepper if needed to ensure you have the right flavor.

Variation

While this recipe is classic and delicious, you can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences:

Different Protein: Instead of turkey, you can use shredded chicken, ham, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian option.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers, celery, or carrots, to give your stuffing balls more color and nutrition.
Cheesy Stuffing Balls: For a cheesy twist, mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella to your stuffing mixture. This will add gooeyness and richness.
Spicy Kick: If you want a spicy version, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried ones?
While you can technically use fresh cranberries, they are quite tart and will not provide the same sweetness as dried cranberries. If you choose to use fresh cranberries, consider adding a bit of sugar to balance the flavor.

Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Form the balls and bake them when you’re ready to serve.

How can I tell when the stuffing balls are cooked through?
The stuffing balls should be golden brown on the outside and firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

What can I serve with Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
They are great with cranberry sauce for dipping. Additionally, you can serve them with a light salad or alongside your favorite vegetable sides.

Can I bake the stuffing balls in an air fryer?
Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) and arrange the stuffing balls in a single layer. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are not only a seasonal favorite but also an easy, delicious dish that can celebrate leftovers at their finest. With their delightful blend of flavors and textures, these savory bites will undoubtedly become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire. Don’t hesitate to customize the recipe according to your tastes, and enjoy sharing this tasty treat with family and friends!