Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Introduction

Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls offer a fresh take on classic holiday flavors in a convenient, bite-sized form. Featuring ground turkey, sweet dried cranberries, aromatic herbs, and bread cubes, these stuffing balls are easy to prepare and bring a unique touch to your festive feast. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

Why Make This Recipe

  • Festive Flavor Fusion: Combines comforting turkey and stuffing with the sweetness of cranberries for a holiday-inspired bite.
  • Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or potlucks, these stuffing balls are portable, shareable, and delicious.
  • Quick and Stress-Free: With minimal prep and baking time, these are a no-fuss addition to your holiday menu.

Ingredients

  • For the Stuffing Balls:
    • 1 pound ground turkey
    • 4 cups dried bread cubes
    • ½ cup dried cranberries
    • ½ cup finely chopped celery
    • ½ cup minced onion
    • ½ cup chicken broth
    • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
    • 1 large egg, beaten
    • 1 teaspoon dried sage
    • ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
    • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
    • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Mixture

  1. In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, cranberries, celery, and onion.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix together ground turkey, chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, sage, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Gently combine the turkey mixture with the bread cube mixture until evenly incorporated. If the mixture feels too dry, add a bit more chicken broth.

3. Form the Balls

  1. Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands or a cookie scoop for uniform sizes.
  2. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each for even cooking.

4. Bake

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (74°C).

5. Serve

  • Serve warm as an appetizer or side dish. Optionally garnish with fresh herbs such as rosemary or parsley for a festive touch.

Pro Tips

  1. Texture Matters: Gently mix the ingredients to keep the bread cubes intact for a softer texture.
  2. Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffing balls in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
  3. Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra holiday flair.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair these stuffing balls with classic holiday sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and gravy.
  • Serve with cranberry sauce for a sweet and tangy complement.
  • Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for an elegant presentation.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze uncooked stuffing balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the cook time.
  • Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.

Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful twist on traditional holiday flavors, perfect for entertaining or elevating a family dinner. Enjoy this festive and flavorful dish!

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