Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

There’s a certain magic that happens when you mix a hint of sweet with savory flavors. Growing up, our family gatherings during the holidays were defined by rich aromas wafting from the kitchen. One standout dish that stole the show each time was my grandmother’s stuffing. She would get creative with it, using leftovers and seasonal ingredients, but one of her greatest hits was undoubtedly the cranberry-infused turkey stuffing balls. These little morsels are not just a side dish; they have the power to spark joy and bring people together around the table, making memories that last long after the last bite.

As much as I cherish my grandmother’s recipe, I’ve put my own twist on it to create Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. They’re perfect for Thanksgiving, holiday parties, or even a cozy family dinner. The juicy turkey mingles beautifully with tart cranberries, while herbs elevate the overall flavor profile. Plus, they’re incredibly simple to make!

Recipe Timing

• Prep Duration: 15 minutes
• Active Cooking: 25 minutes
• Total Duration: 40 minutes
• Portion Size: Serves 4-6
• Complexity: Simple

Nutritional Recipe

• Calories per portion: 180 kcal
• Protein: 18g per serving
• Carbs: 14g per serving
• Fats: 7g per serving
• Fiber: 1g per serving
• Sugars: 1g per serving
• Sodium: 320mg per serving

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

These stuffing balls are a delightful bridge between classic holiday flavors and a modern, healthier twist. Every bite bursts with flavor, the moist turkey is complemented by pops of sweet and tart cranberries, and the herbs create an aromatic experience that’ll make your taste buds sing. Not only do they please both the kids and the adults at the table, but they’re also delightful as appetizers or snacks that can be enjoyed any time of year.

The Complete Cooking Journey

Creating these stuffing balls is a breeze! You’ll start with aromatic vegetables, mix in savory turkey and fresh cranberries, then shape them into balls that turn golden and crispy in the oven. Let’s embark on this delicious adventure!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried sage
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 0.5 cup chicken broth
• Olive oil, for drizzling

Method:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures easy clean-up and helps weight distribution.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet, sauté the finely chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic until fragrant and tender. Let the mixture cool slightly before mixing it into the turkey.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped cranberries, sautéed veggies, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. This is where the magic starts to happen!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Broth

Stir in the lightly beaten eggs and chicken broth until everything is evenly mixed. The mixture should feel slightly moist but not too wet.

Step 5: Form the Balls

Using your hands, roll the turkey mixture into 1-1½ inch balls and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Drizzle with Olive Oil

Lightly drizzle the formed balls with olive oil. This helps to give them that irresistible golden-brown crust as they bake.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the balls are golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once they’re out of the oven, let the stuffing balls cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This is the toughest part—waiting to enjoy!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These stuffing balls are versatile! Serve them with a dipping sauce like cranberry sauce or a herb-infused yogurt. Pair them with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even as part of your holiday dinner spread alongside mashed potatoes and turkey.

Storage & Leftovers Guide

If you have leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months! Just be sure to reheat them fully in the oven until heated through.

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

• Cook Them Evenly: To ensure even cooking, space the balls out on the baking sheet. It allows hot air to circulate.
• Customize the Flavor: Feel free to add in other ingredients like chopped nuts, or substitute turkey with chicken.
• Moisture Check: If the mixture feels too dry before the egg and broth, add a splash more broth to achieve the right consistency.

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

• Bacon Boost: Incorporate crispy cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add cayenne or chili flakes for a kick.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to adapt this recipe for gluten-sensitive guests.

Reader Questions & Solutions

1. Can I substitute ground turkey? Absolutely! You can use chicken, beef, or even a meat substitute like lentils.

2. What if I can’t find fresh cranberries? Dried cranberries work great too! Just remember they are sweeter, so you might want to reduce the sugar elsewhere in your dish.

3. How do I ensure they stay moist? Don’t skip the broth! Adding it helps keep the turkey from drying out while baking.

4. Can I prep these balls ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble them beforehand and store them in the fridge or freeze them for baking later.

5. What should I do if my mixture is too wet? If it’s soggy, add a few more breadcrumbs until a firm consistency is reached.

Wrapping Up

With their irresistible blend of sweet and savory, Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are destined to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen just like they are in mine. Make them for the holidays, special gatherings, or simply as a delicious dinner treat that warms the heart! Remember, every recipe you create in your kitchen tells a story and forges connections—so roll up your sleeves and get cooking! Enjoy every bite!

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