Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe Delight 🎉🦃🍒
1. Introduction
Looking for a festive and flavorful appetizer that combines the best elements of Thanksgiving into a bite-sized delight? These cranberry turkey stuffing balls are the perfect choice for holiday parties or cozy family dinners. Combining tender turkey, aromatic stuffing, and sweet-tart cranberries, these stuffing balls are a crowd-pleaser that captures the essence of holiday comfort food. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also make an impressive presentation on any table. Let’s dive into this delicious cranberry turkey stuffing recipe that’s packed with flavor!
2. Ingredients for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- 1 lb cooked ground turkey
- 2 cups prepared stuffing (your favorite kind)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Swiss work well)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- Optional: glaze or gravy for serving
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Preparing the ingredients
Start by cooking and crumbling the ground turkey if not already cooked. Prepare your stuffing according to package or recipe instructions. Chop fresh parsley and measure all ingredients accurately to ensure a perfect batch.
Mixing the filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey, prepared stuffing, dried cranberries, shredded cheese, parsley, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Forming the stuffing balls
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, portion the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch balls. Place each formed ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Baking the cranberry turkey stuffing balls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the balls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and heated through. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Leftover stuffing balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To recharge the flavors, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the balls in a single layer and transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
5. Serving Suggestions for Turkey Stuffing Bites
Serve these delicious stuffing balls with a side of cranberry sauce or a warm gravy for an extra flavor boost. They are perfect as an appetizer for holiday parties or as a hearty side dish. For a touch of color and crunch, garnish with additional fresh parsley or chopped nuts. Pair with festive drinks or your favorite fall-inspired beverages to complete the meal.
6. FAQs About Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the mixture and form the balls ahead of time, then refrigerate until ready to bake. Baking just before serving ensures they stay fresh and warm.
Can I substitute the dried cranberries?
Absolutely! Raisins, chopped fresh cranberries, or even chopped apples can work as delicious substitutes, adding their own unique sweetness.
Are these stuffing balls suitable for gluten-free diets?
It depends on the type of stuffing you use. Opt for gluten-free stuffing and check that all ingredients, including any seasonings and cheese, are gluten-free to make this dish suitable for celiac or gluten-sensitive diets.
What is the prep time?
The total preparation, including mixing and baking, is approximately 40 minutes. This makes it an easy and quick appetizer option.
7. Related Recipes You Might Love
If you enjoyed this cranberry turkey stuffing balls, explore more festive recipes like Creamy Chicken Alfredo Delight or Heavenly Trifle Scoop Delight. These dishes pair beautifully with the flavors of holiday gatherings.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Non-stick baking mat — Ensures your stuffing balls don’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Measuring cups and spoons — Precise measurements help you recreate the perfect flavor every time.
- Cookie scoop — Helps form uniform stuffing balls effortlessly.
- Oven thermometer — Ensures your oven hits the correct temperature for baking perfect stuffing bites.
9. Conclusion
These cranberry turkey stuffing balls are a delightful twist on classic holiday stuffing, offering a tasty, portable, and crowd-pleasing appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply want a comforting snack, this recipe is sure to impress. Now that you have all the tips and tricks, get cooking and bring a burst of holiday cheer to your table with these irresistible stuffing bites!
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Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe Delight
A savory blend of turkey, cranberries, and herbs shaped into crispy bites, ideal for holiday parties and family feasts.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 balls
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked turkey, shredded
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- 2 cups prepared stuffing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Mix shredded turkey, cranberries, stuffing, Parmesan, egg, thyme, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Form mixture into 1-inch balls and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry stuffing balls until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Notes
Ensure mixture is cold before forming balls for easier shaping. Serve with cranberry sauce or gravy for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls
- Calories: 150 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg