Savory Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls for Holiday Feasts

The holiday season is the perfect time for gathering around the table with loved ones, and what better way to celebrate than with a delightful dish of cranberry turkey stuffing balls? These tasty bites bring a cozy and festive vibe to any meal, making them suitable for both Thanksgiving feasts and family dinners alike. With their combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberries, they’re sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.

This recipe is inspired by the classic flavors of traditional stuffing, combined with a fun twist that elevates it into a bite-sized treat. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a side dish, these stuffing balls encapsulate the spirit of togetherness and the joy of sharing hearty, delicious food. What makes this dish truly special is its easy preparation and the distinct flavors that harmonize perfectly, providing comfort while being suitable for various dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll absolutely love cranberry turkey stuffing balls for several reasons. First, they make for an excellent option for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners when you want something special without too much fuss. They are not only flavorful but also visually appealing, ensuring they will impress your family and friends.

Moreover, they can serve as versatile finger foods for parties or festive occasions. Their delightful balance of savory turkey paired with the natural sweetness of cranberries creates a delicious combination that tantalizes your taste buds. And best of all, they can be easily customized to suit different diets, making them inclusive for everyone at the table.

What Does The Recipe Taste Like

Imagine the perfect bite that embodies the essence of Thanksgiving in a single ball. These turkey stuffing balls are moist and tender, thanks to the juicy turkey, while the cranberries introduce a pop of sweetness that plays beautifully against the savory stuffing. The textures are delightful too, with a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. Each bite is an explosion of flavors—earthy sage, aromatic onions, and just a hint of tartness from the cranberries. They are comforting yet refreshing, making them irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delectable cranberry turkey stuffing balls, you will need the following ingredients:

• Ground turkey (1 pound): This is the main protein of the dish, providing a savory foundation and a leaner alternative to traditional stuffing.
• Cranberries (1 cup, dried): These add sweetness and a lovely tart contrast that balances the other flavors beautifully.
• Bread crumbs (2 cups): They serve as the binder, creating a moist and cohesive texture.
• Onion (1 medium, finely chopped): Adds depth and a savory element that enhances the stuffing balls.
• Celery (1 stalk, finely chopped): Provides crunch and freshness, making the stuffing balls lively in flavor.
• Sage (1 tablespoon, dried): A quintessential herb for stuffing that contributes an earthy aroma and flavor.
• Egg (1 large): Acts as a binding agent, helping to hold the ingredients together while adding moisture.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
• Pepper (½ teaspoon, black): Adds a subtle kick to the overall seasoning.

Optional Additions

If you’re looking to personalize your cranberry turkey stuffing balls, consider these optional additions:

• Nuts (½ cup, chopped): Walnuts or pecans can add a rich crunch and earthiness.
• Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Add some Parmesan or cheddar for a cheesy flair.
• Spicy kick: For a little heat, consider including a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Special Garnishes

Presentation can elevate your dish, so consider garnishing with:

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Bittersweet cranberry sauce: Drizzle some on top for an added flavor boost and visual appeal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your cranberry turkey stuffing balls:

1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and celery until they’re soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This will help release their flavors.
3. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, sautéed onion and celery, dried cranberries, bread crumbs, sage, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
4. Form the balls: With your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, roughly the size of a golf ball. Place them on a greased baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and cooked through. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let cool: Once baked, allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps them set a little, making them easier to handle.

Recipe Variations

There are plenty of ways to mix up this recipe! For a vegetarian option, replace ground turkey with lentils or a mix of roasted vegetables. Additionally, you can use different types of dried fruit, such as apricots or figs, for a unique twist. If you want a spicier flavor, consider adding jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the turkey mix.

Serving and Storage Tips

These cranberry turkey stuffing balls can be served hot or at room temperature, making them perfect for parties or gatherings. They pair wonderfully with a side of homemade cranberry sauce or a creamy dip. To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can also be frozen for longer storage; simply bake them and allow them to cool completely before freezing.

Helpful Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your cranberry turkey stuffing balls are a hit:

• Don’t overmix: When combining your ingredients, be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense stuffing balls.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality bread crumbs can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just form and bake the balls when you’re ready to serve.

Special Equipment

While this recipe is straightforward, having a few special tools can make the process smoother:

• Baking sheet: Perfect for baking the stuffing balls evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Having both large and medium mixing bowls can help separate wet and dry ingredients easily.
• Cookie scoop: This handy tool ensures that your stuffing balls are uniform in size, which helps with even cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries?

It’s best to use dried cranberries for this recipe, as they provide sweetness that fresh cranberries lack. However, if you want to use fresh ones, consider pairing them with a sweetener to balance the tartness.

Can I make these stuffing balls gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just switch out the regular bread crumbs for gluten-free bread crumbs to make them gluten-free. You could also use crushed gluten-free crackers as an alternative.

Can I prepare these stuffing balls in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time, keep it in the fridge, and bake them just before serving. They also freeze well, so you can batch-cook and store them for later use.

How can I reheat leftovers?

The best way to reheat stuffing balls is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven helps keep them crispy.

Conclusion

Cranberry turkey stuffing balls are not just a dish; they are an experience waiting to happen around your dining table. These flavorful, bite-sized delights capture the essence of comfort and celebration, making them perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your experiences or adaptations in the comments section. Let’s create memorable moments together, where good food brings family and friends closer around the table!

Savory Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls for Holiday Feasts

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• Author: souzanfood
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

Delight in savory turkey stuffing balls with a cranberry twistperfect for holiday feasts Elevate your celebrations with this festive dish

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Ingredients

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1 pound ground turkey

1 cup dried cranberries

2 cups bread crumbs

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 stalk celery, finely chopped

1 tablespoon dried sage

1 large egg

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

Optional: 1 cup shredded cheese (Parmesan or cheddar)

Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and celery until they’re soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, sautéed onion and celery, dried cranberries, bread crumbs, sage, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

With your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, roughly the size of a golf ball, and place them on a greased baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 180 calories
• Sugar: 3 grams
• Fat: 8 grams
• Carbohydrates: 16 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Protein: 12 grams