The aroma of Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls wafts through the kitchen, drawing everyone in like a moth to a flame. Imagine round, golden-brown bites bursting with tender turkey, sweet cranberries, and savory herbs—pure bliss on a plate! As you pop one in your mouth, the explosion of flavors dances on your taste buds, sending you straight into comfort food heaven.
Every holiday season brings back memories of my grandma’s kitchen, where she would whip up stuffing that could charm the socks off even the pickiest eaters. These Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are perfect for Thanksgiving or any gathering where family and friends come together to feast. Trust me; once you try these delightful bites, you’ll be counting down the days until your next holiday feast!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy cooks.
- The flavor profile combines savory turkey with sweet cranberries for a delightful twist.
- These stuffing balls look adorable on any plate and are sure to impress guests.
- They’re versatile enough to serve as appetizers or side dishes for any festive occasion.
Ingredients for Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Turkey: Use lean ground turkey for a healthier option that still packs flavor.
- Dried Cranberries: Sweetened dried cranberries add a lovely contrast to the savory elements.
- Breadcrumbs: Choose plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind everything together while adding texture.
- Onion: Finely chopped onion brings out a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Celery: Chopped celery adds crunch and freshness; don’t skip it!
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to keep things light yet flavorful.
- Herbs (Thyme & Sage): Fresh or dried herbs enhance the stuffing’s aroma and elevate its taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a baking sheet and lightly grease it with nonstick cooking spray so our little balls don’t stick around when it’s time to eat!
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Celery
In a skillet over medium heat, add a dash of olive oil and sauté finely chopped onion and celery until they become soft and translucent—about five minutes should do the trick.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, sautéed onion and celery, dried cranberries, breadcrumbs, thyme, sage, and chicken broth. Mix everything together until well combined—don’t be shy; get those hands in there!
Step 4: Form the Stuffing Balls
Using your hands (or an ice cream scoop if you’re fancy), form the mixture into small balls—about the size of golf balls. Place them onto your prepared baking sheet with enough space in between so they can grow without getting too cozy.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden brown. The heavenly smell will have everyone wandering into the kitchen like lost puppies.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Once baked to perfection, let them cool slightly before serving. Transfer them onto plates or serve them straight from the pan. These Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are best enjoyed warm—trust me; they’re irresistible!
Now that you’ve mastered Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, get ready for compliments galore! Whether you’re serving them at Thanksgiving dinner or just because it’s Tuesday (who needs an excuse?), these delightful bites will surely steal the show!
You Must Know
- Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are not just for Thanksgiving; they elevate any meal with a burst of flavor.
- These delightful bites mix savory turkey with sweet cranberries, making them perfect for parties or cozy dinners.
- Plus, they are wonderfully simple to make!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by preheating your oven and preparing your ingredients. Mix the turkey and cranberry filling while the oven warms up. Shape them into balls and bake until golden brown for optimal flavor and texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize these Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls by swapping out turkey for chicken or adding diced vegetables like bell peppers or onions. Experiment with different herbs or spices to suit your taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, preserving their crispy exterior.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls come out perfect every time, consider these tips: Use fresh herbs for a vibrant flavor boost.
- Don’t overmix the turkey mixture to keep balls tender.
- Allow them to cool slightly before serving for better flavor.
Sharing this recipe reminds me of that one Thanksgiving when my cousin mistook my cranberry stuffing balls for meatballs and nearly added marinara sauce! It was hilarious and became a family joke every holiday since.
FAQs:
What are Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful combination of turkey, bread crumbs, and cranberries. This dish offers a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors. They make an excellent side dish for holiday meals or can be served as appetizers. perfect side dish for turkey These stuffing balls are simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and time. fresh salad to balance flavors They provide a cozy, festive touch to any meal, making them a popular choice during Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings. For more inspiration, check out this easy baked cranberry turkey sliders recipe.
How do I store Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
To store Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to three days when properly stored. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each ball tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through, preserving their delicious flavor and texture.
Can I customize the recipe for Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Yes, you can easily customize your Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls according to your taste preferences. Feel free to add ingredients like nuts, herbs, or spices for added flavor and texture. You could also substitute turkey with chicken or use gluten-free bread crumbs if needed. These adaptations allow you to create a unique version that suits your dietary restrictions or personal preferences while still enjoying this tasty dish.
Are Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are excellent for meal prep as they can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. Prepare a large batch over the weekend and portion them out for quick meals during the week. Simply reheat as needed for a satisfying snack or side dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, making it easier to stick with healthy eating habits even on busy days.
Conclusion for Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls:
Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls offer a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving any time of year. With their simple preparation and versatility, they easily fit into various meals as appetizers or sides. Storing these stuffing balls is straightforward, ensuring you always have leftovers on hand or delicious options ready for meal prep. light pasta salad option homemade croutons for stuffing By customizing ingredients, you can make this recipe your own while delighting friends and family alike with every bite.
Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious twist on traditional stuffing, combining savory ground turkey with sweet dried cranberries and fragrant herbs. These golden-brown bites are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy dinners, delivering a burst of flavor in every mouthful. Quick and easy to prepare, they make an impressive appetizer or side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking sheet.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, sautéed onion and celery, cranberries, breadcrumbs, thyme, sage, and chicken broth. Mix well using your hands.
- Form the mixture into golf-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet with space between each ball.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool slightly before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
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