Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Ideal for consuming holiday remnants, these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Packed with tender turkey, sweet cranberries, and fragrant herbs, they make for an excellent starter or side dish. These stuffing balls are not only perfect for Thanksgiving but also versatile enough to enjoy at any gathering throughout the year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these stuffing balls quickly.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of turkey and cranberries creates a sweet and savory profile that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a snack during holiday parties.
• Great for Leftovers: Transform leftover turkey into a tasty new dish that reduces food waste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These stuffing balls are sure to impress guests at any gathering with their unique flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes preparation easier and more efficient. Here’s what you’ll need to get started on your Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and browning of the stuffing balls.
• Parchment paper or cooking spray: Prevents sticking, making cleanup easier after baking.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls:

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups bread crumbs
• 1 cup cooked turkey, shredded
• ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
• ½ cup onion, finely diced
• ½ cup celery, diced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 large egg

How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
* Combine the bread crumbs, shredded turkey, chopped cranberries, diced onion, diced celery, and chopped parsley.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Add in:
* 1 tsp of dried thyme
* 1 tsp of salt
* ½ tsp of black pepper

Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Bind the Mixture

Pour in:
* ¼ cup of chicken broth

Then add:
* 1 large egg

Mix everything until you achieve a uniform texture. If the mixture appears too dry, gradually add more chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Shape the Stuffing Balls

Using about 2 tablespoons of the mixture:
* Roll it into small spheres.
* Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake for approximately:
* 25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Enjoy your Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls while warm. They pair wonderfully with gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping!

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful dish perfect for any occasion, especially during the holiday season. They can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.

With Gravy

• Serve warm with a side of rich turkey gravy for a comforting touch.

With Cranberry Sauce

• Pair with homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce for a burst of sweetness that complements the savory stuffing balls.

As an Appetizer

• Present them on a platter as bite-sized appetizers, ideal for parties or gatherings.

In a Salad

• Toss them into a fresh salad for added texture and flavor, making for a unique and hearty meal.

On Skewers

• For fun finger food, thread them onto skewers with veggies like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes.

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How to Perfect Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

To make your cranberry & turkey stuffing balls even more delicious, consider these helpful tips:

• Use stale bread: Stale bread crumbs absorb moisture better, giving your stuffing balls a lovely texture.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the mixture before baking and tweak salt or herbs to match your flavor preference.
• Add cheese: Incorporate grated Parmesan or cheddar for extra richness and flavor.
• Moisten gradually: Add chicken broth slowly until you reach your desired consistency; too much liquid can make them soggy.
• Chill before baking: Refrigerating the mixture for 30 minutes allows flavors to meld and helps them hold their shape while baking.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal:

1. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and squash adds color and nutrition.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a classic comfort food element that goes well with stuffing balls.
3. Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds offer crunch and freshness beside savory flavors.
4. Stuffed Acorn Squash: A sweet and savory dish made by filling acorn squash halves with quinoa or rice stuffing.
5. Cranberry Relish: A zesty relish brightens up the plate and enhances the flavors of the stuffing balls.
6. Cornbread: Moist cornbread brings Southern charm to your table, balancing the savory notes perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience when making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls.

• Skipping the herbs: Not adding fresh or dried herbs can make your stuffing balls bland. Always include thyme and parsley for flavor.
• Not measuring ingredients: Guessing ingredient amounts may lead to inconsistent results. Use precise measurements for best outcomes.
• Overmixing the mixture: Mixing too vigorously can make the stuffing balls tough. Gently combine ingredients until just mixed.
• Ignoring the egg’s role: The egg acts as a binder; forgetting it can cause your stuffing balls to fall apart. Always include it in your mixture.
• Baking at incorrect temperatures: Baking at too high or low temperatures can affect cooking time and texture. Stick to 375°F (190°C) for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes, keeping them moist with foil.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking periodically until hot.
• Stovetop: Sauté gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls gluten-free?

You can substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I use leftover stuffing instead of bread crumbs?

Yes! If you have leftover stuffing, you can use it as a base, but adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly.

What is the best way to serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

These stuffing balls are delicious served warm with gravy or cranberry sauce on the side, making them perfect for any holiday gathering.

Can I add more vegetables to my stuffing balls?

Absolutely! Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I know when Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are done?

They should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through in the center. A food thermometer should read at least 165°F (74°C).

Final Thoughts

Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful way to use holiday leftovers while impressing your guests. They are versatile and can accommodate various flavors based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate to customize them with different herbs or vegetables!