If you’re searching for a holiday dish that beautifully marries the savory and the sweet, look no further than these delightful Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. Perfectly golden and packed with flavor, these stuffing bites are not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly versatile. They’re excellent as a festive appetizer, an addition to the main course, or even as a cozy dinner on a chilly evening. The combination of ground turkey with the tart burst of fresh cranberries makes every bite a delicious harmony of textures and flavors, all while being relatively simple to prepare.
What truly sets these stuffing balls apart is how they bring the ambiance of holiday feasting into your cooking. Imagine a warm kitchen filled with the delicious aroma of herbs and roasted turkey, evoking memories of family gatherings. The use of fresh cranberries adds a seasonal touch, making this dish not only tasty but also visually appealing on any holiday table. Perfectly baked and adorned with a drizzle of olive oil, they turn a classic recipe into a modern favorite, ideal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Flavor Profile: The balance of savory turkey and tart cranberries creates a unique taste sensation.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple instructions, it’s a breeze even for novice cooks.
- Versatile: Enjoy them as an appetizer, side dish, or main course during the holiday season or on weeknights.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein from turkey and vitamins from vegetables, these are a healthy option compared to traditional stuffing.
- Make Ahead: Perfect for meal prep! You can shape the balls in advance and bake them right before serving.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the culinary adventure of making Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring that it reaches the right temperature before you pop in the stuffing balls. Gather your ingredients—fresh cranberries, ground turkey, onions, celery, and the various seasonings—which should all be fresh to capture the best flavors.
For this recipe, you’ll need a large mixing bowl for combining the ingredients and a parchment-lined baking sheet for baking. Having a pair of measuring cups and spoons handy will help with ingredient accuracy, and consider using silicone baking mats for an easier cleanup. A spoon for mixing and your hands for shaping the stuffing balls are also essential. Lastly, an olive oil spray or small drizzler will be useful to finish off your bites before baking.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Your first task is to preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This crucial step ensures that when your stuffing balls hit the oven, they start cooking immediately and bake evenly to a perfect golden brown. The right temperature will enhance their flavor and contribute to a delightful texture.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, place your ground turkey along with the breadcrumbs, fresh cranberries, finely chopped onion, and celery. Adding in the minced garlic will provide a depth of flavor that enhances the turkey. Sprinkle in dried sage, thyme, salt, and pepper to introduce aromatic spices. Finally, crack the two large eggs into the mixture and pour in the chicken broth. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything thoroughly; you want to ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed for consistent flavors in every bite.
Step 3: Shape the Stuffing Balls
With the mixture well combined, it’s time to shape your stuffing balls. Wet your hands slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking to them; then, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into 1 to 1½-inch balls. The size should be consistent to ensure even cooking. Place each ball onto your prepared baking sheet, making sure they have a little space between them for air circulation.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Drizzle your formed stuffing balls lightly with olive oil, which will help them brown beautifully in the oven. Now it’s time to bake them! Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let the balls cook for 20 to 25 minutes. They should come out golden brown and cooked through, with a slight crispiness on the exterior while remaining moist inside.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once your stuffing balls are baked to perfection, allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet. This cooling period helps them set as well. Serve them warm with your favorite sauce or gravy for an added touch of flavor.
Variations
- Protein: Swap ground turkey for ground chicken, beef, or sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetables: Mix in diced bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and color.
- Spices: Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or oregano, to switch up the flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Feel free to adjust the amount of salt and spices based on your preference.
- These stuffing balls can be prepared ahead of time and frozen. Just bake them when ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with homemade cranberry sauce for a festive touch.
- Pair them with a rich gravy or a creamy mushroom sauce for extra savoriness.
Tips
- Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to dry stuffing balls. Watch them closely during the last few minutes of baking.
- If using frozen cranberries, ensure to thaw and drain them before mixing in.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 210 per serving
- Protein: 18g per serving
- Sodium: 450mg per serving
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mixture, shape the balls, and store them in the fridge for up to a day in advance.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
What can I serve with these stuffing balls?
They pair well with a variety of sauces, salad, or even mashed potatoes. Enjoy them as a side or a hearty snack.
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, dried cranberries will work, but reduce the total amount of salt, as dried cranberries can be sweet. Hydrate them with a little water if desired.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a wonderful addition to any meal, especially during the holiday season. They’re not only delicious but also easy to make, making them a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced cooks alike. The balance of flavors and textures will surely impress your guests and your family. We encourage you to try this recipe, experiment with it, and even share your unique variations in the comments! Enjoy the blend of turkey and cranberries, and elevate your dining experience with this festive treat.
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Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
If you’re searching for a holiday dish that beautifully marries the savory and the sweet, look no further than these delightful Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, cranberries, onion, celery, garlic, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the eggs and chicken broth, mixing thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into 1 to 1½-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool slightly before serving warm.
Notes
Feel free to adjust salt and spices according to your taste preferences. These can be made ahead and frozen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Protein: 18 g