Description of this recipe
These Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful twist on traditional holiday flavors, combining the savory goodness of turkey and stuffing with the sweet-tart tang of cranberries. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a fun snack, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Imagine the warm, comforting taste of Thanksgiving in every mouthful – that’s what you get with these delectable morsels. The combination of seasoned ground turkey, aromatic stuffing, sweet cranberries, and a touch of parmesan cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Why you will love this recipe
You will absolutely adore this recipe for several compelling reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a festive holiday dinner, a casual get-together, or simply looking for a unique and flavorful snack, these stuffing balls fit the bill perfectly. They’re easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and are guaranteed to impress your guests.
Secondly, these turkey stuffing balls are a fantastic way to use leftover stuffing, making them an eco-friendly and budget-conscious choice. Instead of letting that delicious stuffing go to waste, you can transform it into something new and exciting. Plus, the addition of cranberries adds a burst of freshness and a festive touch that elevates the entire dish.
Finally, the convenience factor is undeniable. These stuffing balls can be made ahead of time and reheated, making them an ideal option for busy hosts. They’re also incredibly portable, so you can easily bring them to potlucks or parties. Each bite is packed with flavor and texture, offering a satisfying and delightful culinary experience. The blend of savory, sweet, and cheesy notes makes these stuffing balls irresistible, ensuring they’ll be a crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 box stuffing mix (prepared according to package instructions)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
- Optional for serving: turkey gravy, cranberry sauce, fresh herbs
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the stuffing balls will cook evenly and achieve a beautiful golden-brown color. While the oven is preheating, prepare a baking sheet by greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil. This will prevent the stuffing balls from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Alternatively, you can line the baking sheet with parchment paper for even easier removal.
Step 2: Prepare the stuffing mix according to the package instructions. Different brands may require varying amounts of water or broth, so it’s important to follow the specific directions provided. Once the stuffing is prepared, allow it to cool slightly. This will make it easier to handle and prevent the eggs from cooking prematurely when you mix them in.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, prepared stuffing, dried cranberries, lightly beaten eggs, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a large spoon to gently mix all the ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough stuffing balls. The goal is to evenly distribute the cranberries and seasonings throughout the mixture.
Step 4: Once the mixture is well combined, it’s time to form the stuffing balls. Take a small amount of the mixture and roll it between your palms to create a golf ball-sized portion. Aim for consistency in size to ensure even cooking. Place each formed stuffing ball onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them to allow for proper air circulation.
Step 5: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the turkey is fully cooked and safe to eat. Once they are done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the stuffing balls to cool slightly before serving.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls as a delightful appetizer or side dish at your next holiday gathering. They pair perfectly with turkey gravy, cranberry sauce, or a dollop of sour cream. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary for an extra touch of elegance. You can also serve them as a fun and flavorful snack for kids and adults alike.
Tips:
- To make these stuffing balls even more flavorful, consider browning the ground turkey in a skillet before adding it to the mixture. This will add a deeper, richer flavor to the dish.
- For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the ground turkey with plant-based ground meat or simply omit it altogether. The stuffing balls will still be delicious with the cranberries and parmesan cheese.
- If you prefer a softer texture, you can add a little extra broth or water to the stuffing mixture before forming the balls. This will help keep them moist during baking.
- To prevent the stuffing balls from drying out, you can brush them with a little melted butter or olive oil before baking. This will also help them achieve a beautiful golden-brown color.
- These stuffing balls can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 calories per stuffing ball (depending on ingredients and serving size)
- Protein: 10-15 grams per serving
- Sodium: Varies depending on the stuffing mix and added salt
Conclusion
These Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious and versatile addition to any holiday spread. Their combination of savory turkey, sweet cranberries, and aromatic stuffing creates a truly memorable culinary experience. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, these stuffing balls are sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a unique appetizer, a flavorful side dish, or a fun snack, these stuffing balls are the perfect choice. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of Thanksgiving flavors in every bite!
5 Questions and Answers about this recipe
Q1: Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! These stuffing balls can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve them, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave if you’re short on time. Making them in advance is a great way to save time and reduce stress when you’re preparing for a big event.
Q2: What can I substitute for ground turkey?
A: If you’re not a fan of turkey or you’re looking for a vegetarian option, there are several great substitutes you can use. Ground chicken or ground pork work well and provide a similar texture and flavor. For a vegetarian option, you can use plant-based ground meat substitutes, which are widely available in most grocery stores. Alternatively, you can simply omit the meat altogether and focus on the stuffing, cranberries, and cheese for a delicious vegetarian stuffing ball.
Q3: Can I add other ingredients to these stuffing balls?
A: Of course! This recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to add other ingredients to suit your taste. Diced apples, pecans, or walnuts can add extra flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as sage, rosemary, or poultry seasoning. For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make these stuffing balls your own!
Q4: How do I prevent the stuffing balls from drying out?
A: To keep the stuffing balls moist and prevent them from drying out during baking, there are a few tricks you can try. First, make sure to add enough moisture to the stuffing mixture. You can add a little extra broth or water if needed. Before baking, brush the stuffing balls with melted butter or olive oil to help them retain moisture and achieve a beautiful golden-brown color. Additionally, avoid overbaking them, as this can cause them to become dry.
Q5: Can I freeze these stuffing balls for later?
A: Yes, you can definitely freeze these stuffing balls for future use. Allow them to cool completely after baking, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until they are solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, you can reheat them directly from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are heated through.
