Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

Introduction

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful twist on traditional stuffing, combining savory turkey with sweet cranberries. These bite-sized treats are perfect as a side dish or appetizer for any holiday meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 cups stuffing mix (gluten-free if needed)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup butter, melted (optional for extra flavor)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, stuffing mix, dried cranberries, chicken broth, beaten egg, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Step 3: Mix all ingredients thoroughly but avoid overmixing to keep the texture light.
4. Step 4: Shape the mixture into 16 golf ball-sized balls and arrange them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Step 5: If desired, brush each ball with melted butter to add extra crispiness and flavor.
6. Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the outsides turn golden brown.
7. Step 7: Let the stuffing balls cool slightly before serving warm alongside gravy or cranberry sauce.

Tips & Variations

• Use gluten-free stuffing mix to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
• Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for a fresher taste.
• Swap dried cranberries with dried cherries or raisins for a different fruity note.
• For extra crispiness, broil the stuffing balls for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Storage

Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the balls a day in advance. Keep them covered and refrigerated until ready to bake.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works well as a substitute and will produce a similar texture and flavor.

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 90 reviews

• Author: Charlotte
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 16 stuffing balls 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful twist on traditional stuffing. Made with ground turkey, dried cranberries, and savory herbs, these bite-sized morsels are perfect as a festive appetizer or a tasty side dish. Baked until golden and juicy, they bring a burst of flavor and a beautiful pop of color to your holiday table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein and Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 cups stuffing mix (gluten-free if needed)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 egg, beaten

Seasonings and Extras

• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup butter, melted (optional for extra flavor)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, stuffing mix, dried cranberries, chicken broth, beaten egg, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until all ingredients are well combined but avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender.
3. Form balls: Roll the mixture into 16 golf ball-sized portions, ensuring they are evenly sized for uniform cooking. Place these on the prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
4. Add butter (optional): Brush each stuffing ball with the melted butter to add richness and help them develop a golden, crispy exterior during baking.
5. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the stuffing balls for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the outsides are nicely golden brown.
6. Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let the stuffing balls cool slightly so they set up before serving warm. They pair beautifully with gravy or cranberry sauce for an extra festive touch.

Notes

• For gluten-free preparation, be sure to use a gluten-free stuffing mix.
• You can substitute ground chicken if you prefer a lighter meat option.
• Brushing with melted butter is optional but adds a delicious crispy texture and richer flavor.
• Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure food safety when cooking poultry.
• These stuffing balls can be prepared up to a day in advance and refrigerated before baking for convenience.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: cranberry, turkey, stuffing, holiday recipe, gluten-free, baked appetizers, Thanksgiving, Christmas side dish, savory bites