If you’re looking to elevate your holiday spread or simply want a cozy, flavorful snack, the Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe is the perfect choice. These delightful little bites combine tender ground turkey with the comforting texture of stuffing and the sweet pop of dried cranberries, creating a mouthwatering harmony of savory and sweet that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a side, this recipe brings warmth, color, and festive cheer to any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe uses a handful of straightforward ingredients that come together effortlessly to make something truly special. Each component plays its part — from the juicy ground turkey to the sweet bursts of cranberry, and the fragrant herbs that tie it all together.
- Ground turkey: A lean, tender protein base that keeps these balls moist and flavorful.
- Cooked stuffing: Adds a classic, comforting texture and binds everything beautifully.
- Dried cranberries: Provides a sweet-tart surprise in each bite, giving freshness and color.
- Celery: Finely chopped for a subtle crunch and a hint of earthiness.
- Onion: Adds depth and savory balance with its natural sweetness.
- Egg: Acts as a natural binder holding the mixture together.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
- Dried sage: Brings that classic herb note perfect for turkey dishes.
- Garlic powder: Adds a gentle warmth and aromatic hint.
- Olive oil: For brushing the balls, ensuring a golden, appetizing finish.
How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it hot and ready. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this little step keeps cleanup easy and prevents sticking, ensuring your cranberry turkey stuffing balls come out perfectly shaped without fuss.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the ground turkey, cooked stuffing, dried cranberries, finely chopped celery, onion, beaten egg, salt, pepper, dried sage, and garlic powder. Gently mix everything until just combined—taking care not to overwork the mixture so your stuffing balls stay tender rather than tough.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
Using your hands, form the mixture into 1½-inch balls. Placing them evenly spaced on the baking sheet ensures even cooking and a beautiful arrangement. This is where the magic begins—seeing those vibrant cranberry flecks peek out makes these utterly tempting.
Step 4: Add Olive Oil and Bake
Brush or drizzle the tops lightly with olive oil. This step helps the balls develop a gorgeous golden crust as they bake. Pop the tray in the oven and let them bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until they’re cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The aroma will start filling your kitchen and getting everyone excited!
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Once baked, give them a 5-minute rest. This allows the juices to settle and keeps each ball moist and flavorful when you bite in. Optional but highly recommended: serve alongside warm gravy or extra cranberry sauce for dipping.
How to Serve Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme over the cranberry turkey stuffing balls adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the warm, savory flavors perfectly. A light drizzle of a tangy cranberry glaze or a dollop of smooth gravy can elevate your presentation and flavor profile instantly.
Side Dishes
These balls pair beautifully with classic holiday sides like mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp winter salad with vinaigrette. Their rich, hearty flavor provides a wonderful contrast to lighter, fresher accompaniments, making your meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or family dinners, arrange cranberry turkey stuffing balls on a festive platter with small bowls of dipping sauces—think cranberry mustard or a savory herb aioli. You can even skewer a couple together for an easy-to-eat appetizer that guests will love grabbing throughout the event.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe, any leftovers should be placed in an airtight container and refrigerated. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for a convenient, delicious snack or quick meal later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to save these for even longer, freeze the uncooked balls laid out on a parchment-lined tray. After they freeze solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, providing a ready-to-bake treat whenever you’re craving something comforting.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the cranberry turkey stuffing balls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10 to 15 minutes. This helps maintain their crispy exterior while warming the inside perfectly. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that lovely texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use leftover turkey instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Diced leftover turkey can be gently folded into the stuffing mixture for a delicious twist. Just keep in mind the texture will be chunkier, so you might need to adjust the binder slightly.
Is it necessary to use dried cranberries?
Dried cranberries add a lovely sweetness and festive color, but you can substitute with dried cherries or raisins if preferred. Fresh cranberries are too tart and watery for this recipe.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free stuffing or make your own with gluten-free bread. All other ingredients here are naturally gluten-free.
How do I prevent the balls from falling apart?
Make sure not to overmix the mixture and use the beet egg as a binder. Forming balls gently but firmly also helps keep everything together during baking.
What can I serve with cranberry sauce?
Serving extra cranberry sauce on the side complements the natural sweetness in the cranberry turkey stuffing balls and adds moisture. It’s a classic pairing that never fails.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe is such a joyful addition to any meal, blending familiar flavors into a fun, easy-to-eat form. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these tasty bites bring comfort and celebration in every mouthful. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a new favorite at your table!
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Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (approximately 12-16 balls)
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, perfect as a flavorful appetizer or side dish for your holiday meals. These bite-sized meatballs combine ground turkey with savory stuffing and sweet dried cranberries, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups cooked stuffing (boxed or homemade)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried sage
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing or drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, cooked stuffing, dried cranberries, chopped celery, chopped onion, beaten egg, salt, black pepper, dried sage, and garlic powder.
- Mix Gently: Mix the ingredients until just combined to avoid overworking the meat, which could make the balls tough.
- Form Stuffing Balls: Shape the mixture into 1½-inch diameter balls and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush or drizzle olive oil over the tops of each ball to help with browning and moisture.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the balls are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Allow the stuffing balls to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, serve with gravy or cranberry sauce for added flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Use either homemade or boxed stuffing depending on preference; avoid overly moist stuffing to maintain shape.
- For a more intense flavor, sauté celery and onion lightly before mixing, though this is optional.
- These balls can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
- Serve as a side dish or appetizer during Thanksgiving or other festive gatherings.
