The holiday season often brings the joy of gathering with loved ones over delicious, hearty meals. If you’re looking for a unique and tasty dish that blends the traditional flavors of turkey and stuffing with the sweet-tartness of cranberries, this Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe is a perfect choice. Not only does it combine some of the most loved holiday ingredients, but it also adds a creative twist, making this recipe stand out on any festive dinner table. Whether you’re serving these as an appetizer, a main course, or as part of a larger holiday meal, they’re bound to impress your guests.
Ingredients for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
For the Stuffing Balls
- 2 cups cooked stuffing (homemade or store-bought): You can use your favorite stuffing recipe or even leftover stuffing from another meal. The texture of the cooked stuffing helps bind everything together, providing a flavorful base for the turkey balls.
- 1 pound ground turkey (or chicken): Ground turkey is a lean, flavorful protein option that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Chicken can also be used as an alternative.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and a pop of tartness that complements the savory stuffing and turkey.
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped: Offers a bit of crunch and freshness, adding texture to each bite.
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped (optional): If you enjoy the depth of flavor that onions bring to a dish, this addition will make the stuffing balls even more savory.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens up the dish with its fresh, herbaceous flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a mild but noticeable garlic flavor that blends well with the turkey and stuffing.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or other herbs): Thyme gives the stuffing balls a warm, earthy taste. You can also substitute or add other herbs like sage or rosemary.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat to balance the sweetness of the cranberries and the richness of the turkey.
- 1 egg, lightly beaten: Acts as a binder to help hold the ingredients together when forming the stuffing balls.
For the Glaze (Optional)
- 1/4 cup cranberry sauce: A simple glaze made from cranberry sauce complements the stuffing balls with a touch of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey): Adds a natural sweetness to the glaze and balances the tart cranberry sauce.
Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This allows the oven to reach the right temperature for even cooking. While the oven is heating, you can prepare the ingredients and stuffing balls. Also, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the stuffing balls from sticking to the pan and to make clean-up easier.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients needed for the stuffing balls: the cooked stuffing, ground turkey, chopped dried cranberries, chopped celery, onion (if using), parsley, garlic powder, thyme, salt, pepper, and the lightly beaten egg. Make sure the ingredients are well distributed and thoroughly mixed, as this will ensure even flavor and texture in each stuffing ball. You can use a spoon or your hands to mix, but be careful not to overwork the meat, as it may become tough.
Step 3: Form the Stuffing Balls
With the mixture ready, use your hands to form the stuffing balls. Take approximately 2 tablespoons of the mixture and gently roll it between your palms to form a ball. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart to allow for even cooking. Continue this process until you’ve used all the mixture. Depending on the size, you should get around 12–16 stuffing balls.
Step 4: Bake the Stuffing Balls
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. The stuffing balls should be golden brown on the outside and fully cooked on the inside, with the turkey reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness if you are unsure.
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)
While the stuffing balls are baking, you can prepare the glaze if you choose to add one. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of cranberry sauce with 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey. Mix well to combine. After the stuffing balls have baked for about 20 minutes, take them out of the oven and brush the glaze over the tops of each ball. Return them to the oven for the remaining 5–10 minutes to let the glaze set and infuse the stuffing balls with extra flavor.
Step 6: Serve
Once the stuffing balls are fully cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These cranberry turkey stuffing balls are delicious on their own or served with your favorite holiday sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes, the stuffing balls can be made ahead of time. You can prepare the mixture, form the balls, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked stuffing balls and bake them straight from the freezer when you’re ready, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. Can I use store-bought stuffing?
Absolutely! Store-bought stuffing works just as well in this recipe, especially if you’re short on time. You can also use leftover stuffing from another meal. The key is that the stuffing should be cooked and cooled before mixing it with the ground turkey.
3. What other types of meat can I use in this recipe?
While the recipe calls for ground turkey, you can also use ground chicken, ground pork, or even ground beef. Each type of meat will add a slightly different flavor, but the results will still be delicious.
4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free stuffing. You can find gluten-free stuffing mixes at many grocery stores, or make your own using gluten-free bread.
5. Can I omit the cranberries?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of cranberries or want a more savory dish, you can omit them. However, the dried cranberries add a nice balance of sweetness and tartness that complements the savory ingredients. You can also try substituting the cranberries with dried cherries, apricots, or raisins.
6. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover cranberry turkey stuffing balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave them for a quick reheating option.
7. Can I freeze the stuffing balls after baking?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked stuffing balls. Once they’ve cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake the frozen stuffing balls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes, or until heated through.
8. Can I customize the recipe by adding more ingredients?
Yes, this recipe is very flexible! You can add chopped pecans or walnuts for some crunch, or experiment with other dried fruits like raisins or apricots. You can also add more herbs like sage, rosemary, or even a pinch of nutmeg for additional layers of flavor.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe is an excellent way to incorporate classic holiday flavors into a fun, bite-sized dish that everyone will enjoy. Not only are these stuffing balls easy to make, but they’re also packed with flavors that evoke the warmth and comfort of a holiday meal. The combination of savory turkey, herb-infused stuffing, and sweet-tart cranberries makes for a delicious and well-balanced dish.
Plus, the addition of a simple cranberry glaze adds a touch of sweetness that elevates the overall taste. These stuffing balls are perfect for festive gatherings, potlucks, or even as a new take on Thanksgiving leftovers. You can customize them to suit your tastes and dietary preferences, and they freeze well, making them convenient for future meals.
Whether you’re making them as a side dish or serving them as part of a larger holiday feast, these cranberry turkey stuffing balls are sure to become a seasonal favorite.