Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that combines comfort and flavor, you’ve come to the right place! These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are a family favorite in my home. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or as a special treat during family gatherings. The combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberries creates a wonderful balance that everyone will enjoy.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to make. You can whip it up in no time, and they also freeze beautifully, making them an ideal meal prep option. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe even more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just a few steps, you can have these stuffing balls ready for the oven in under 30 minutes.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the flavorful blend of turkey and cranberries.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare these ahead of time, making weeknight meals stress-free.
• Versatile flavors: The ingredients are easily adjustable, so you can customize them to suit your taste preferences.
• Comforting goodness: Each bite is like a warm hug, perfect for cozy dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to cooking, I believe in keeping things simple and wholesome. For these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients that pack a lot of flavor!

For the 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 parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up based on what you have at home or your personal taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas to try:

• Swap the protein: Try ground chicken or even plant-based ground meat for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Mix in some grated carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Change the herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary instead of sage and thyme for a fresh twist.
• Make it spicy: Add some crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat if you’re feeling adventurous.

How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is important because it ensures your stuffing balls cook evenly and get that lovely golden brown color we all adore.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the dried bread cubes, cranberries, celery, and onion. This combination brings together the sweet and savory flavors that make these stuffing balls irresistible.

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 black pepper. Mixing these ingredients well is key to ensuring each stuffing ball is flavorful from every angle.

Step 4: Form the Balls

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the turkey mixture to your bread cube mixture. With clean hands (this part is fun!), shape them into 1 ½-inch balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. Make sure they have some space between them so they can bake evenly.

Step 5: Bake

Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown. The delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen will be hard to resist!

Enjoy these delightful Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls as part of any meal—your family will thank you!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Creating the perfect Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls is easier than you might think! Here are some handy tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use Stale Bread Cubes: Using slightly stale bread cubes allows them to absorb the broth better, ensuring your stuffing balls are moist and flavorful.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine your ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough stuffing balls, while a light touch keeps them tender.

• Chill the Mixture: If you have time, chill the mixture for about 30 minutes before forming the balls. This helps them hold their shape during baking.

• Check for Doneness: To ensure your stuffing balls are cooked through, use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative! Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even spices like cinnamon can give a unique twist to your stuffing balls.

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Serving your Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls can be as fun as making them! Here are some ideas that will make this dish shine on your dinner table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
• Cranberry Sauce: Serve with a side of homemade cranberry sauce for a sweet contrast that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes bring warmth and color to your plate, enhancing both nutrition and flavor.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that pairs perfectly with the stuffing balls’ texture and taste.
• Green Salad: A crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the stuffing balls.
• Quinoa Pilaf: This nutritious grain dish adds a nutty flavor and additional protein, making it an excellent choice for a complete meal.

With these serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress family and friends at your next dinner gathering! Enjoy crafting this delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are perfect for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze! You can prepare them in advance, ensuring you have a delicious and healthy option at your fingertips.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Arrange the cooled stuffing balls on a baking sheet in a single layer.
• Freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
• Transfer the frozen balls to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label and date, then freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the desired number of stuffing balls on a lined baking sheet.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delightful stuffing balls:

Can I make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls without bread?

Absolutely! You can substitute the dried bread cubes with gluten-free bread or even cooked quinoa for a different texture while keeping it delicious.

How do I ensure my Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls hold together?

Make sure to mix the ingredients well and let the mixture sit for a few minutes before forming the balls. This helps everything bind together better during baking.

What can I serve with Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

These stuffing balls pair wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, making for a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! While this recipe features ground turkey, feel free to swap it out with ground chicken or lean beef if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls as much as I do! They bring comfort and joy to any dinner table, whether it’s for a family meal or a cozy gathering with friends. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; I’m sure you’ll love how easy and delicious they are. Happy cooking!