When I think about the holidays, there’s one dish that always seems to bring everyone together: stuffing. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy family dinner, the savory scent of seasoned breadcrumbs, herbs, and turkey is a comforting reminder of the warmth of home. But what if we could take that classic stuffing to the next level? Enter Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls a festive, flavorful twist on the traditional stuffing that’s packed with juicy ground turkey, sweet dried cranberries, and a blend of aromatic herbs.
These cranberry turkey stuffing balls are a great way to put a modern spin on a family favorite. They’re perfect for any occasion – from a hearty weeknight meal to holiday feasts. Imagine golden-brown stuffing balls, crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a bite-sized burst of savory and sweet flavor. The combination of turkey, cranberries, and sage is a winning trio that feels like a warm hug on your taste buds. Whether served as an appetizer, a side dish, or the star of the show, these stuffing balls are sure to be a hit with everyone at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups stuffing mix (you can use a store-bought mix or homemade, depending on your preference)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (chopped, if preferred for smaller bites)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (low sodium for a healthier option)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage (this classic herb adds a wonderful depth of flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (to bring an earthy note to the mix)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted (optional, for added richness and flavor)
Preparation
These cranberry turkey stuffing balls are easy to prepare and can be made in just a few simple steps. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, stuffing mix, dried cranberries, and herbs (sage and thyme). The turkey provides a lean protein base, while the stuffing mix brings that traditional, comforting texture. The cranberries add a delightful sweet-tart contrast that pairs perfectly with the savory turkey and stuffing.
Step 3: Add the chicken broth and the beaten egg to the bowl. The chicken broth will help keep the stuffing balls moist, while the egg will act as a binding agent to hold everything together. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is well-combined.
Step 4: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re using the optional butter, drizzle it into the mixture for an extra layer of richness. Give everything another good stir to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake the stuffing balls in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The turkey will reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked. You’ll know they’re done when they have a crispy, golden exterior and a moist, flavorful center.
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized to fit different dietary needs or flavor preferences. Here are a few variations to try:
- Gluten-Free: Simply swap out the regular stuffing mix for a gluten-free version. Many stores offer gluten-free stuffing options, or you can make your own from gluten-free bread.
- Vegan: For a plant-based alternative, use crumbled tempeh or lentils instead of turkey. Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
- Dairy-Free: Skip the butter, or replace it with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine. Make sure to check the stuffing mix for any hidden dairy ingredients.
- Herb Variations: If you love experimenting with flavors, try adding a pinch of rosemary, oregano, or marjoram to the mix for a unique twist on the classic stuffing.
Cooking Notes
- Moisture Level: Depending on the stuffing mix you use, you might need to adjust the amount of chicken broth. If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more broth until it holds together well. If it’s too wet, add a little extra stuffing mix to absorb the moisture.
- Make-Ahead: These cranberry turkey stuffing balls can be prepared ahead of time. You can shape the balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This can save you time on busy days or special occasions.
- Freezing: If you want to make a large batch and save some for later, freeze the shaped stuffing balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffing balls are versatile and can be served in many different ways. Here are some ideas:
- As an Appetizer: Serve them as bite-sized appetizers with a tangy dipping sauce, like cranberry sauce or a creamy mustard dipping sauce.
- Side Dish: Pair these stuffing balls with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Main Course: Serve the stuffing balls over a bed of fresh greens, drizzling with a light vinaigrette, or place them on top of a hearty bowl of soup for a satisfying, comforting dish.
- Beverage Pairings: These stuffing balls go wonderfully with a glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. If you’re serving them as part of a holiday meal, a crisp cider or a festive mocktail could be the perfect accompaniment.
Tips
- Storage: Leftover cranberry turkey stuffing balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Meal Prep: These stuffing balls make for excellent meal prep. They can be reheated in the microwave, or you can bake them from frozen for an easy weeknight dinner.
- Reheating: To keep them crispy, reheat the stuffing balls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help maintain their texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 stuffing ball)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 7g
- Sodium: 180mg
Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20 stuffing balls
FAQs
1. Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing balls in advance by shaping them and storing them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
2. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken works just as well in this recipe. It will have a slightly lighter flavor but will still yield delicious results.
3. Can I make these stuffing balls gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free stuffing mix and make sure your chicken broth is gluten-free as well.
4. How can I ensure the stuffing balls stay moist?
The key to moist stuffing balls is the right balance of liquid (chicken broth) and the stuffing mix. Be sure to add the broth gradually, and if necessary, add a little more to achieve the desired consistency.
Conclusion
These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday feasts. With their perfect balance of savory turkey, tangy cranberries, and aromatic herbs, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re enjoying them as a side, an appetizer, or the main event, they’re bound to impress.
Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments. We’d love to hear your creative variations and serving suggestions.
Print
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20 stuffing balls 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups stuffing mix (you can use a store-bought mix or homemade, depending on your preference)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (chopped, if preferred for smaller bites)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (low sodium for a healthier option)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage (this classic herb adds a wonderful depth of flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (to bring an earthy note to the mix)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted (optional, for added richness and flavor)
Instructions
Preparation
These cranberry turkey stuffing balls are easy to prepare and can be made in just a few simple steps. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, stuffing mix, dried cranberries, and herbs (sage and thyme). The turkey provides a lean protein base, while the stuffing mix brings that traditional, comforting texture. The cranberries add a delightful sweet-tart contrast that pairs perfectly with the savory turkey and stuffing.
Step 3: Add the chicken broth and the beaten egg to the bowl. The chicken broth will help keep the stuffing balls moist, while the egg will act as a binding agent to hold everything together. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is well-combined.
Step 4: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re using the optional butter, drizzle it into the mixture for an extra layer of richness. Give everything another good stir to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake the stuffing balls in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The turkey will reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked. You’ll know they’re done when they have a crispy, golden exterior and a moist, flavorful center.
Notes
- Moisture Level: Depending on the stuffing mix you use, you might need to adjust the amount of chicken broth. If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more broth until it holds together well. If it’s too wet, add a little extra stuffing mix to absorb the moisture.
- Make-Ahead: These cranberry turkey stuffing balls can be prepared ahead of time. You can shape the balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This can save you time on busy days or special occasions.
- Freezing: If you want to make a large batch and save some for later, freeze the shaped stuffing balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 120
- Sodium: 180
- Protein: 7