If you are on the hunt for a dish that bursts with flavor and holiday spirit, look no further than this Irresistibly Savory Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe. These delightful little morsels combine the warmth of traditional stuffing ingredients with the vibrant tartness of fresh cranberries and the lean goodness of ground turkey. Each bite offers a perfect balance of savory herbs, tender turkey, and a hint of sweetness, making these stuffing balls a fantastic addition to any festive table or cozy dinner. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a beloved classic you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, wholesome ingredients make this recipe shine, each playing a vital role. From the fresh cranberries adding bright color and tartness to the ground turkey providing a lean protein base, every component builds layers of flavor and texture that bring these stuffing balls to life.
- 1 pound ground turkey: Lean and tender, this forms the protein-packed heart of the stuffing balls.
- 1 cup fresh cranberries: Adds a pop of vibrant color and a slight tartness to balance rich flavors.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Essential for structure and a light, crumbly texture.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Brings depth and sweetness when cooked into the mixture.
- 1 celery, finely chopped: Adds a fresh crunch and subtle earthiness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the stuffing balls with aromatic warmth.
- 1 teaspoon dried sage: A classic herb that enhances the turkey’s natural flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a fragrant, slightly floral note that rounds out the savory profile.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances and brightens all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds a gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
- 2 eggs: Acts as a binder to hold everything together.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Moistens the mixture for tender, juicy results.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For greasing the baking sheet and a touch of richness.
How to Make Irresistibly Savory Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the perfect cooking temperature for crisp, golden exteriors while keeping the centers moist.
Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, fresh cranberries, chopped onion, celery, minced garlic, dried sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. This blend of flavors and textures creates the foundation for your stuffing balls, with the cranberries lending bursts of brightness that contrast beautifully with the herbs and aromatics.
Step 3: Add the Ground Turkey
Gently fold in the ground turkey, being careful not to overmix. This keeps your stuffing balls tender and juicy, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor without becoming dense.
Step 4: Bind and Moisten the Mixture
Beat the eggs in a separate bowl along with the chicken broth. Then pour this moistening mixture into the stuffing base and mix until everything is evenly combined. This step is crucial as it binds the ingredients and prevents the stuffing balls from drying out during baking.
Step 5: Shape the Stuffing Balls
With slightly wet hands, roll the mixture into 1 to 1½ inch diameter balls. The wet hands prevent sticking and help achieve smooth, uniform balls that bake evenly.
Step 6: Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Place each ball on a baking sheet greased with olive oil or lined with parchment paper. Make sure to space them evenly so the heat circulates freely—this helps them crisp up beautifully on all sides.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake your stuffing balls for 20 to 25 minutes, until their outsides turn a mouthwatering golden brown. This crispy texture contrasts perfectly with the soft, savory center loaded with fresh cranberries and herbs.
Step 8: Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let the stuffing balls rest a few minutes. This short downtime allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite cozy, rich, and satisfyingly moist.
How to Serve Irresistibly Savory Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Garnishes
For a charming presentation, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top. A light drizzle of cranberry sauce on the side can also highlight the tart freshness of the cranberries inside, making each bite pop with even more flavor.
Side Dishes
These stuffing balls pair wonderfully with classic holiday favorites. Think roasted root vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. Their balance of savory and fruity notes complements a variety of side dishes superbly.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Irresistibly Savory Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe into elegant appetizers by skewering them with toothpicks and serving on a festive platter. Or serve them nestled inside hollowed-out mini pumpkins or acorn squash for an autumnal feast that’s both visually stunning and delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They hold their flavor and texture well, making them just as delightful the next day or as a quick snack.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the stuffed balls on a baking sheet without touching and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 3 months, making it easy to prepare ahead for any occasion.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or frozen stuffing balls by baking them at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This reheating method restores their lovely crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and tasty.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground turkey with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well and keeps the dish light. For a richer flavor, ground pork or sausage can be swapped in, but this will change the overall taste and fat content.
Are fresh cranberries necessary or can I use dried?
Fresh cranberries provide a vibrant tartness and a juicy pop that dried cranberries can’t fully replicate. If using dried, soak them briefly in warm water to rehydrate and reduce excess sweetness to maintain balance.
Can I make these stuffing balls vegetarian?
Yes, by replacing ground turkey with cooked lentils or chopped mushrooms and using vegetable broth, you can create a similarly tasty vegetarian version packed with texture and flavor.
How do I prevent the stuffing balls from falling apart?
Ensure the mixing step includes beaten eggs and broth for moisture and binding. Also, avoid overworking the mixture and handle the balls gently when shaping for the best results.
Can these be baked in advance for a party?
You can shape them ahead and store them uncooked in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake them fresh before serving to maintain that irresistible texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Irresistibly Savory Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe is a true winner for anyone looking to elevate their meal with a dish that’s full of heart and bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy dinner with friends, these balls deliver comfort, joy, and a little festive flair in every bite. Give them a try—you’ll soon find they’re impossible to resist.
Print
Irresistibly Savory Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 stuffing balls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These irresistibly savory cranberry turkey stuffing balls blend ground turkey, fresh cranberries, aromatic herbs, and classic stuffing ingredients into perfectly baked, bite-sized delights. Ideal as a flavorful appetizer or side dish, these stuffing balls offer a festive twist to traditional holiday fare with their moist texture and delightful burst of tangy cranberries.
Ingredients
Stuffing Balls Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking those delicious stuffing balls.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, fresh cranberries, finely chopped onion, celery, minced garlic, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until evenly incorporated.
- Add Ground Turkey: Gently fold in the ground turkey, making sure it is evenly distributed throughout the stuffing mixture.
- Mix Eggs and Broth: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and stir in the chicken broth to moisten; then combine this liquid mixture with the stuffing mixture until thoroughly moistened.
- Shape Balls: Using slightly wet hands, form the mixture into 1 to 1½ inch diameter balls to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Place the formed stuffing balls evenly spaced on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet to avoid sticking during cooking.
- Bake: Cook the stuffing balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until their exterior is golden brown and cooked through.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove from the oven and allow the stuffing balls to rest for a few minutes to set and cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Wet your hands slightly when shaping the balls to prevent sticking.
- Fresh cranberries add a tangy burst, but dried cranberries can be used for a sweeter option.
- Ensure the turkey is cooked through by checking that internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- These stuffing balls can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or party snack.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground turkey with a plant-based ground meat alternative and use vegetable broth.
