Name: Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-484141H13M24S
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 4 cups dried bread cubes; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup finely chopped celery; 1/2 cup minced onion; 1/2 cup chicken broth (plus extra if needed); 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon dried sage; 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Looking for a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and totally festive? These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are just what you need! Packed with savory turkey, sweet cranberries, and all the cozy seasonings you love, these little bites are like comfort in a ball. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a main event at your next gathering—this recipe is bound to be a hit! Trust me, you’re going to love these little nuggets of flavor, and they’re super easy to whip up.

Why You’ll Love Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.

Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.

Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.

Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients

Here’s the magic behind these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both savory and sweet with the perfect amount of texture:

Ground Turkey: The lean protein that holds everything together. It provides a savory base while taking on the flavors of all the other ingredients. You can use white or dark meat, depending on your preference!

Cranberries: These little gems add a burst of sweetness and tang that perfectly contrasts the savory stuffing and turkey. Dried cranberries work best in this recipe—they stay chewy and give that festive pop of flavor.

Stuffing Mix: The heart and soul of stuffing balls! This base is full of flavor, and it’s what gives the balls that perfect texture. You could go with traditional stuffing mix or even a cornbread version if you want to mix things up.

Eggs: Binding everything together. Eggs add moisture and help the stuffing balls hold their shape when cooking.

Herbs and Seasonings: A blend of savory sage, thyme, salt, and pepper brings the stuffing balls to life. The herbs infuse the turkey and stuffing with delicious warmth, making every bite comforting and fragrant.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and gives your stuffing balls that perfect crisp on the outside.

Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the ground turkey, dried cranberries, stuffing mix, eggs, and all your herbs and seasonings. Stir gently until the mixture is just combined. You don’t want to overwork it; keep it light and fluffy!

Form the Balls: Scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place each ball onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. This step is simple but rewarding, as you’ll start to see those perfect little stuffing balls taking shape!

Bake to Perfection: Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when they’re crispy on the outside, but tender and juicy inside.

Serve and Enjoy: Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a minute or two. Serve warm and enjoy! These little gems are great on their own or as a side dish to complement your main course.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 130

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a creamy dip to complement the dish’s flavor profile.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.

Presentation matters too! Serving the dish in a beautifully arranged platter can elevate the dining experience. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for that extra pop.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.
Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular flour for gluten-free alternatives or dairy products for plant-based options.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.
Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute turkey with chicken?
A1: Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well and will give you a similar flavor and texture.

Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
A2: Yes, you can prepare and assemble the stuffing balls ahead of time, then bake them just before serving.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to maintain that crispy exterior.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Once baked, allow them to cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Once frozen solid, transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven from frozen.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat these?
A5: Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! If you’re feeding a crowd, doubling the batch works perfectly. Just make sure to bake them in batches to ensure they cook evenly.

Q7: Can I add other ingredients like cheese or vegetables?
A7: Yes, feel free to get creative! Grated cheese or chopped vegetables like onions or bell peppers would make great additions.

Q8: What other herbs can I use in the stuffing balls?
A8: If you love a different flavor profile, try rosemary, marjoram, or even a dash of nutmeg for a twist.

Q9: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried ones?
A9: Fresh cranberries are much too tart for this recipe, so stick with dried cranberries for that perfect balance of sweetness.

Q10: Are these gluten-free?
A10: The stuffing mix typically contains gluten, but you can swap it with gluten-free stuffing mix to make this dish gluten-free.

Conclusion

There you have it! These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are everything you need in one delicious bite—savory, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just for yourself, this recipe is bound to become a new favorite. It’s simple, flexible, and guaranteed to impress. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out—I promise you won’t be disappointed!