Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Why Make This Recipe

Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious and easy dish that adds a twist to traditional stuffing. They are perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or casual meals. The combination of turkey and cranberries makes them flavorful and moist, while the breadcrumbs give them a nice texture. Plus, they are easy to prepare and can be served as an appetizer or a main dish.

How to Make Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground turkey
• 1 cup fresh cranberries (or ¾ cup dried cranberries)
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup celery, diced
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sage
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onion and celery in olive oil until softened (about 5 minutes).
3. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, sautéed vegetables, cranberries, breadcrumbs, eggs, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
4. Scoop out two tablespoons of mixture and roll into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Let cool slightly before serving with gravy or dipping sauce.

How to Serve Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

These stuffing balls are versatile. They can be served on their own as a snack or appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce. You can also pair them with gravy for a heartier meal. They make a great addition to a holiday platter or as a side dish for dinner.

How to Store Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

To store the stuffing balls, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cooked stuffing balls in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

1. For extra flavor, add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts.
2. To make them spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the mixture.
3. Make sure not to overmix the ingredients; just combine until everything is moist.

Variation

You can switch up the meat by using ground chicken instead of turkey. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different herbs or add some chopped apples for a sweeter taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just thaw and drain them before adding them to the mixture.

2. What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed crackers or oats as a substitute for breadcrumbs.

3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Roll them into balls just before baking for best results.