Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

The Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful twist on traditional stuffing, combining savory turkey with the sweetness of cranberries. These bite-sized treats are perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or as a comforting side dish to complement your favorite meals. With a crispy exterior and a moist, flavorful interior, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.

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Why You’ll Love These Stuffing Balls

1. Delicious Flavor Combination: The savory taste of turkey pairs beautifully with the tart sweetness of cranberries.
2. Versatile: They can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course for a lighter meal.
3. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, they’re perfect for cooks of all levels.
4. Make Ahead: You can prepare them in advance and bake them just before serving, making them a convenient option for busy holidays.

Ingredients Breakdown

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups of bread crumbs: This forms the base of the stuffing balls, providing structure and texture.
• 1 cup of cooked turkey, shredded: Adds protein and a savory flavor; great for using up leftovers.
• ½ cup of dried cranberries, chopped: Provides sweetness and a pop of color to the dish.
• ½ cup of onion, finely diced: Adds a savory depth to the flavor profile.
• ½ cup of celery, diced: Contributes a nice crunch and freshness.
• ¼ cup of fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish and adds a touch of color.

Seasoning and Liquids

• ¼ cup of chicken broth: Helps moisten the mixture and adds flavor; adjust based on consistency.
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon of salt: Enhances all the flavors in the mixture.
• ½ teaspoon of black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.

Binding Agent

• 1 large egg: Acts as a binder, helping the stuffing balls hold their shape during baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the stuffing balls cook evenly and develop a golden brown crust.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
   • 2 cups of bread crumbs
   • 1 cup of cooked turkey, shredded
   • ½ cup of dried cranberries, chopped
   • ½ cup of onion, finely diced
   • ½ cup of celery, diced
   • ¼ cup of fresh parsley, chopped
   Mix these ingredients well to ensure they’re evenly distributed.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

1. Add the following seasonings to the bowl:
   • 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
   • 1 teaspoon of salt
   • ½ teaspoon of black pepper
   Stir to incorporate the spices thoroughly into the mixture.

Step 4: Add the Liquid Ingredients

1. Pour in ¼ cup of chicken broth and add 1 large egg to the mixture.
2. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined and moist. If it seems too dry, gradually add a little more chicken broth until you achieve the right consistency. The mixture should hold together when squeezed but not be overly wet.

Step 5: Form the Stuffing Balls

1. Using your hands or a small scoop, scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture at a time.
2. Roll it into a ball shape and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all the mixture has been used, spacing the balls a couple of inches apart.

Step 6: Bake the Stuffing Balls

1. Bake the stuffing balls in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. They should feel firm to the touch and have a nice crust.

Step 7: Serve

1. Once baked, remove the stuffing balls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
2. Serve warm, optionally with gravy or cranberry sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Stuffing Balls

• Adjust the Texture: If the mixture seems too dry, adding a bit more chicken broth will help achieve the right consistency. Conversely, if it’s too wet, you can add a little more bread crumbs to absorb excess moisture.
• Customize the Add-Ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or different herbs to customize the flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just form and bake the balls when you’re ready to serve.
• Freezing: These stuffing balls freeze well! Form the balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Variations to Try

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the turkey with a mixture of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and carrots for a delicious vegetarian option.
• Different Dried Fruits: Swap dried cranberries for other dried fruits like apricots or raisins for a different flavor twist.
• Cheesy Stuffing Balls: Add ½ cup of shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) to the mixture for a cheesy version.

Conclusion

The Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of Thanksgiving or any holiday meal in a fun, bite-sized format. They’re packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course, these stuffing balls are sure to please everyone at your table.

Experiment with different ingredients, and find your perfect combination! These stuffing balls are not just delicious; they also bring a touch of comfort and nostalgia, making every bite a warm reminder of home and festive gatherings. Enjoy!