Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Deliciously savory and slightly sweet, these Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect addition to your holiday feast.
These Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful twist on traditional stuffing, perfect for using up leftover turkey and adding a festive touch to your dinner table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Savory turkey combined with sweet cranberries for a unique flavor
- Easy to make ahead and bake just before serving
- Perfect for holiday gatherings and family dinners
The Perfect Holiday Treat
Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful fusion of flavors that elevate any holiday meal. The savory turkey provides a hearty base, while the addition of sweet cranberries adds a unique twist that tantalizes the taste buds. These stuffing balls not only serve as a fantastic side dish but can also stand alone as a tasty appetizer, making them a versatile addition to your festive spread.
Their bite-sized form makes them easy to serve and even easier to enjoy. Guests can pop them in their mouths, savoring the delightful combination of flavors in each ball. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or a cozy family dinner, these stuffing balls are sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Make-Ahead Convenience
One of the best features of these stuffing balls is their convenience. They can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen on the day of your celebration. Simply mix the ingredients, form the balls, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This make-ahead strategy not only reduces stress but also ensures that you can enjoy your guests' company without feeling rushed.
When you’re ready to serve, all you need to do is pop them in the oven. Baking them fresh ensures that they come out hot and golden brown, providing that irresistible aroma that fills the air and draws everyone to the dinner table. It’s a win-win situation for any host!
Customization Options
While this recipe is delightful as is, it also offers the flexibility for customization. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or even add some nuts for a crunchy texture. You can substitute the turkey with chicken or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version, keeping the essence of the dish intact while catering to various dietary preferences.
If you have leftover stuffing from a traditional turkey meal, consider incorporating it into the mixture for added flavor. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish uniquely yours while still holding onto the holiday spirit.
Ingredients
For the Stuffing Balls
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients thoroughly and shape into balls.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey, bread crumbs, chopped cranberries, onion, celery, chicken broth, beaten egg, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
Form the Balls
Using your hands, form the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Serve warm as a side dish or appetizer.
Storing and Reheating
If you have any leftovers (which is rare with these delicious bites!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed for up to three days after cooking. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cooled stuffing balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain their crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
These Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Consider serving them with a tangy cranberry relish or a creamy garlic aioli for a delicious contrast. For a more festive touch, a drizzle of balsamic glaze can add an extra layer of flavor that complements the sweetness of the cranberries.
You can also serve them alongside traditional holiday sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or a fresh salad. Their versatility makes them a perfect match for any dish, ensuring that your holiday table is both beautiful and bountiful.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffing balls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving.
→ Can I freeze the stuffing balls?
Absolutely! Freeze the uncooked stuffing balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
→ What can I serve with the stuffing balls?
These stuffing balls pair wonderfully with gravy, cranberry sauce, or served alongside your favorite holiday dishes.
→ Can I use other meats instead of turkey?
Yes, you can substitute shredded chicken or even a vegetarian option like lentils for a delicious twist.
Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls
Deliciously savory and slightly sweet, these Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect addition to your holiday feast.
Created by: Kate Phillips
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stuffing Balls
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey, bread crumbs, chopped cranberries, onion, celery, chicken broth, beaten egg, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
Using your hands, form the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 8g