Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

These Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful and savory dish, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a comforting side dish throughout the year. Combining ground turkey, seasoned stuffing mix, and the sweet tartness of dried cranberries, these bite-sized treats offer a balance of flavors with each bite. Whether served as an appetizer or a side dish, these stuffing balls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 cups stuffing mix (seasoned)
• 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 tsp dried sage
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (or as needed)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, stuffing mix, dried cranberries, onion, celery, parsley, sage, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add Egg and Broth: Add the beaten egg and chicken broth to the mixture, stirring until everything is evenly combined. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape.
4. Form the Balls: Form the mixture into small balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are cooked through and golden brown.
6. Serve: Allow the stuffing balls to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as an appetizer or side dish!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground turkey with a plant-based meat alternative or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to change the flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free stuffing mix to make this recipe gluten-free.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: These stuffing balls freeze well. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, though the texture may not be as crispy.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the stuffing balls, refrigerate them, and bake them just before serving.
2. Can I substitute the turkey with chicken?
   Yes, ground chicken is a great alternative to ground turkey.
3. What can I use instead of chicken broth?
   You can use vegetable broth or even water in place of chicken broth.
4. Can I make these stuffing balls vegetarian?
   Yes, substitute the turkey with a plant-based meat alternative or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth.
5. How do I know when the stuffing balls are cooked?
   The stuffing balls should be golden brown and firm to the touch. A meat thermometer should read 165°F (74°C) inside the stuffing ball.
6. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries?
   Fresh cranberries can be used, but they will add more moisture and may alter the texture slightly.
7. Can I add cheese to the stuffing balls?
   Yes, you can add shredded cheese to the mixture for a cheesy variation.
8. Can I make these stuffing balls without breadcrumbs?
   You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers, croutons, or a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative.
9. What other herbs can I add?
   You can add thyme, rosemary, or even a little bit of sage for extra flavor.
10. Can I serve these stuffing balls as a main dish?
    While typically served as a side dish or appetizer, you could serve these as a main dish along with a salad or mashed potatoes for a lighter meal.

Conclusion

Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for the holidays or any time of the year. With their savory flavors, balanced by the sweetness of cranberries, these bite-sized treats are sure to become a family favorite. Whether as a simple snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.

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