Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe: A Delicious Thanksgiving Twist
Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with family and indulging in mouthwatering dishes that bring warmth to the table. One dish that stands out as both flavorful and unique is Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. These delightful stuffing balls are not only an ideal way to enjoy the classic flavors of Thanksgiving in bite-sized form, but they also make for a perfect holiday appetizer or side dish. Packed with juicy turkey, tangy cranberries, and traditional stuffing flavors, these balls are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Whether you’re hosting a small family gathering or a festive dinner party, these stuffing balls will leave your guests raving!
✨ Why Choose Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls? ✨
Not only are these stuffing balls easy to make, but they also add a modern twist to traditional stuffing recipes. By combining savory turkey with the sweetness of dried cranberries and a hint of fresh herbs, this recipe creates an explosion of flavor in every bite. Plus, they’re a great way to repurpose leftover turkey from Thanksgiving!
📝 Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) of cooked turkey (shredded or diced)
- 3 cups of prepared stuffing (homemade or store-bought)
- ½ cup of dried cranberries
- 1 large egg, beaten
- ¼ cup of melted butter
- ½ cup of chicken broth (or turkey broth)
- 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon of fresh sage (or ½ tsp dried sage)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray or melted butter (for greasing the baking sheet)
🍽️ Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease the parchment with olive oil spray or melted butter.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded or diced turkey, prepared stuffing, dried cranberries, fresh thyme, and sage. Mix until evenly distributed.
- Add the beaten egg, melted butter, and chicken broth to the mixture. Stir well until the mixture is moist and holds together when pressed. If the mixture feels too dry, you can add a little more broth, one tablespoon at a time.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference.
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into golf ball-sized stuffing balls (about 2 inches in diameter). Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
- Bake the stuffing balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on the outside and firm to the touch.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the stuffing balls to cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm with a side of gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping. These stuffing balls also pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
📋 FAQs About Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls:
1. Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing balls up to a day in advance and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them as directed.
2. Can I freeze leftover stuffing balls?
Yes! These stuffing balls freeze very well. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.
3. What can I substitute for turkey in this recipe?
If you don’t have turkey on hand, you can substitute shredded chicken or even use ground turkey for a different texture. Both options work well!
4. How do I prevent the stuffing balls from falling apart?
Make sure to add enough broth and egg to bind the mixture together. The stuffing should be moist enough to hold its shape when formed into balls.
5. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries?
Yes! Fresh cranberries will add a more tart flavor. If using fresh, consider chopping them finely and mixing them into the stuffing. You may also want to reduce the amount slightly to avoid overpowering the dish.
⭐️ Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls:
- For extra crispiness, drizzle a little melted butter over the stuffing balls before baking.
- Use leftover turkey and stuffing from Thanksgiving for a quick and budget-friendly recipe.
- Serve these balls with a drizzle of gravy or dip them in cranberry sauce for an elevated holiday experience.
Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls as the perfect addition to your holiday menu! 🍂🍴
