Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy dinner idea that will please everyone at the table, then you need to try my Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls. These little bites of goodness are packed with flavor and are perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. I love making them because they combine the comforting flavors of turkey and cranberries, which makes every bite feel special. Plus, they’re a wonderful way to use up leftover bread!

What makes this recipe even more appealing is how simple it is to prepare. You can whip these up in no time, and they make for great meal prep options too! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking to have something tasty on hand throughout the week, these stuffing balls won’t disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious stuffing balls ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and savory combination of flavors.
• Make Ahead: Perfect for meal prep, you can store them in the fridge or freezer for quick snacks or meals later.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The mix of turkey, cranberries, and spices creates a warm, inviting dish that feels like a hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find that they are all simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s take a look at what you need to create these tasty Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 4 cups dried bread cubes
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some finely chopped carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
• Use Different Bread Types: Experiment with different types of bread cubes like sourdough or whole grain for unique flavor profiles.
• Try Other Dried Fruits: If cranberries aren’t your favorite, raisins or chopped apricots can be delightful alternatives.

How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Starting with a preheated oven ensures that your stuffing balls bake evenly and turn golden brown.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the dried bread cubes, cranberries, celery, and onion. This combination forms the base of your stuffing balls and gives them texture and flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Turkey Mixture

In another bowl, combine the ground turkey with chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, sage, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture is packed with moisture and flavor that will keep your stuffing balls juicy.

Step 4: Form Balls

Add the turkey mixture into the bowl with bread cubes. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined. Then shape the mixture into 1 ½-inch balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. This step is crucial as it allows each ball to hold its shape while baking.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them; you want that beautiful color! The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible.

Enjoy these delightful Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls—they’re sure to become a favorite in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

These little bites of goodness are sure to impress, and with a few handy tips, you’ll have them turning out perfectly every time!

• Use stale bread: Using dried bread cubes allows for better absorption of moisture, ensuring your stuffing balls hold together and have great texture.

• Let the mixture rest: Allowing the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes before shaping helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to form into balls.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Always taste your mixture before baking. This way, you can tweak the salt and spices according to your preference, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to customize your stuffing balls by adding ingredients like chopped nuts for crunch or different herbs for a unique twist. This flexibility can make the dish even more special!

• Bake in batches: If you’re making a larger quantity, bake them in batches instead of overcrowding the baking sheet. This ensures even cooking and browning, resulting in perfectly crispy exteriors.

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Presentation is key when serving these delightful stuffing balls! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, here are some ideas to bring your dish to life.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the plate.
• Cranberry sauce: Serve alongside a small bowl of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce for an extra sweet-tart flavor that complements the turkey beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts provide a colorful addition and balance out the savory flavors nicely.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast and keeps things healthy.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a classic pairing that adds heartiness to your meal while soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Green bean almondine: Sautéed green beans with slivered almonds bring in a lovely crunch and vibrant color, making your table look inviting and festive.

With these serving suggestions, your Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls will not only taste fantastic but also look beautiful on your dining table! Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making your weeknight dinners even more convenient. With the right storage methods, you can enjoy these tasty bites throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing balls to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Arrange the cooled stuffing balls in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, labeling with the date.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place frozen or refrigerated stuffing balls on a baking sheet.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some frequently asked questions about our Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls.

Can I make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing balls a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply bake as directed.

How do I store leftover Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze them, and they’ll keep well for about three months.

What can I serve with Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

These delicious stuffing balls pair wonderfully with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or even as part of a holiday spread!

Can I substitute ground turkey with another meat?

Yes! You can easily substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives if you’re looking for a different flavor profile or dietary option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! They embody comfort and flavor while being easy enough for any weeknight meal. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your results. Happy cooking!