Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Delight your guests with these savory and sweet Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls, perfect for any festive gathering.
Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful twist on traditional stuffing, combining the savory flavor of turkey with the sweet and tart notes of cranberries. These little bites are perfect as appetizers or a side dish for your holiday meals.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- A perfect balance of savory turkey and sweet cranberries
- Great for holiday gatherings and family dinners
- Easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time
The Perfect Holiday Appetizer
Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are an ideal choice for holiday gatherings. Their delightful combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberries brings a unique flavor to the table, making them a memorable addition to any festive spread. These hearty bites can easily impress your guests while providing a comforting taste of home that everyone loves.
Whether you are hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying a cozy family dinner, these stuffing balls are versatile enough to fit any occasion. They can be served as appetizers, side dishes, or even as part of a buffet. Their appealing presentation and delicious taste make them a crowd favorite, ensuring your gathering is a hit.
Make-Ahead Convenience
One of the best features of Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls is their make-ahead convenience. You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This not only saves you time on the day of your event but also enhances the overall taste of the stuffing balls.
When you’re ready to serve, simply form the mixture into balls and bake them. This easy prep means you can focus on other dishes or enjoy more time with your guests. With such simplicity in preparation, you can ensure that your holiday meal is both delicious and stress-free.
Customizable Ingredients
These stuffing balls are highly customizable, allowing you to tailor them to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Feel free to swap out the dried cranberries for other dried fruits like apricots or raisins. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, making it easy to put your personal spin on this classic recipe.
For those looking for a gluten-free option, simply use gluten-free bread crumbs. This makes the stuffing balls accessible for a wider audience, ensuring that everyone at your gathering can enjoy this delightful treat. The flexibility of this recipe makes it a winner for any kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Stuffing Balls
- 2 cups bread crumbs
- 1 cup cooked turkey, shredded
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Mix all the ingredients together in a large bowl before forming them into balls.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix well until fully incorporated.
Form the Balls
Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
Bake
Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Let the stuffing balls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience. Consider pairing them with a tangy dipping sauce, such as cranberry sauce or a zesty mustard, to add an extra layer of flavor. You can also serve them on a platter garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
If you want to create a complete meal, serve these stuffing balls alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. This combination not only makes for a balanced meal but also ensures that your guests have a delightful variety of flavors and textures to enjoy.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing them properly will help maintain their deliciousness. Place the stuffing balls in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage, allowing you to enjoy them at a later date.
To reheat, simply place the stuffing balls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method helps them regain their crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and flavorful, making them just as delightful as when they were freshly baked.
Nutritional Benefits
Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls not only taste great but also offer several nutritional benefits. Turkey is a lean protein, providing essential amino acids that support muscle health and overall wellness. Additionally, cranberries are rich in antioxidants, which can help boost your immune system and improve overall health.
By incorporating fresh vegetables like onions and celery, you’re adding valuable nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, to the dish. These stuffing balls can be a wholesome addition to your holiday meal, allowing you to indulge without compromising on nutrition.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover turkey?
Yes, leftover turkey works perfectly in this recipe!
→ How do I store the leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make these vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute turkey with mushrooms or a vegetarian meat substitute.
→ What can I serve these with?
They pair wonderfully with gravy, cranberry sauce, or as a side dish with your favorite holiday meal.
Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls
Delight your guests with these savory and sweet Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls, perfect for any festive gathering.
Created by: Vivienne Cole
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stuffing Balls
- 2 cups bread crumbs
- 1 cup cooked turkey, shredded
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix well until fully incorporated.
Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 340mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 15g