Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

If you’re looking for a delicious and festive dish to bring to your holiday table, you’ve come to the right place! These Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are one of my all-time favorites. They combine the savory goodness of ground turkey with the delightful sweetness of cranberries and aromatic herbs. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!

What makes this recipe so special is its versatility. You can whip it up for busy weeknights, serve it at family gatherings, or even make it ahead for those special occasions. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these stuffing balls ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love them! The sweet cranberries add a fun twist that even picky eaters will enjoy.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Bursting with Flavor: Each bite is packed with savory herbs and a hint of sweetness, making them unforgettable.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for any meal—these stuffing balls complement turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian feast!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to create something delicious without any fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Stuffing Balls:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley

Variations

One of the best things about these stuffing balls is how flexible they are! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile.
• Add some spice: Incorporate red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper if you like a little heat!
• Change up the herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary or basil can give these balls an exciting twist.
• Mix in veggies: Chopped bell peppers or spinach can add extra nutrients and color.

How to Make Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your stuffing balls cook evenly and develop a lovely golden brown color.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, dried cranberries, breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mixing everything together allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Mix in the chicken broth, beaten eggs, and chopped parsley until everything is well combined. The eggs help bind the mixture while adding moisture—this keeps your stuffing balls from being dry.

Step 4: Shape into Balls

Shape the mixture into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easier and helps prevent sticking.

Step 5: Bake Them Up

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the stuffing balls are cooked through and golden brown. Baking gives them that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve hot as a side dish or as part of your festive meal. These little bites of joy are sure to please everyone at your table! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Creating the perfect stuffing balls can be a breeze with these handy tips!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like sage and thyme can enhance the flavors immensely compared to their dried counterparts. They add a vibrant taste that will make your stuffing balls truly stand out.

• Don’t overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense stuffing balls, while a gentle hand keeps them light and fluffy.

• Chill the mixture: If you find the mixture too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. This makes it easier to shape into balls and helps them hold their form during baking.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or seasonings! A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper can introduce an extra layer of flavor that complements the cranberries beautifully.

• Check for doneness: To ensure your stuffing balls are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

How to Serve Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

These delightful stuffing balls not only taste amazing but also look fantastic on your festive table! Here’s how to present them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Cranberry sauce: A dollop of cranberry sauce on top or on the side provides a sweet contrast that pairs wonderfully with the savory stuffing balls.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes offer a deliciously colorful accompaniment that balances the meal.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette is refreshing and adds texture alongside the stuffing balls.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes make for classic comfort food that complements the flavors of your festive meal beautifully.
• Green bean almondine: Sautéed green beans with slivered almonds provide a crunchy texture and bright green color that bring life to your plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are sure to impress family and friends at any gathering! Enjoy cooking and celebrating together!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, making your festive gatherings a breeze. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat these flavorful stuffing balls.

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

• After baking, let the stuffing balls cool completely.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen balls to an airtight freezer bag or container.
• Label with the date and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the stuffing balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, checking regularly.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delightful stuffing balls, you’re in the right place!

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey for Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great alternative and will work beautifully in this recipe, maintaining that delicious flavor.

How do I keep my Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls from drying out?

To prevent dryness, ensure you don’t overbake them. Using enough chicken broth and keeping them covered while they bake can help retain moisture as well.

Can I add other ingredients to my stuffing balls?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like nuts, different herbs, or even vegetables for extra flavor and texture.

How long can I store leftover stuffing balls?

You can keep your leftover stuffing balls in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls as much as I do! They’re not just a delicious addition to any meal but also bring warmth and joy to your table. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or just looking for a comforting dish, these stuffing balls are sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!