Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

There’s a certain kind of magic that happens in the kitchen during the holiday season. The warmth of the oven, the scent of herbs mingling with the sweetness of cranberries, and the chatter of loved ones nearby — it all comes together to create a cozy tapestry of memories. When I think of those moments, I’m reminded of my grandmother’s tiny kitchen, where love and laughter were always the main ingredients. Today, I want to share with you a recipe that embodies that same spirit: Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. These charming little bites are a delightful twist on traditional stuffing, offering everything you love about the holidays in a compact, delicious package.

The Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are more than just a recipe; they are an invitation to relive the warmth and joy of holidays past. Imagine the satisfying crunch of the golden exterior giving way to a savory, tender center packed with the sweetness of dried cranberries. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors that evokes the essence of festive gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a large family dinner or an intimate meal, these stuffing balls are sure to become a beloved tradition in your home. They’re a conversation starter, offering a unique twist on classic stuffing that your guests will talk about long after the meal is over.

Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table

Why might you ask, should these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls find their way to your table? Well, let me tell you:

1. Effortless Elegance: These stuffing balls are not only easy to make, but they also bring a touch of elegance to your holiday spread, impressing guests with minimal effort. They’re perfect for adding a bit of sophistication without the hassle.
2. Perfect Portions: Forget the fuss of serving and slicing — each guest gets their own delightful stuffing ball, making it ideal for gatherings of all sizes. This also means fewer dishes to clean up afterward, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends.
3. Nostalgic Flavors: Infused with the familiar warmth of dried sage and thyme, these stuffing balls bring the comforting, nostalgic flavors of home to any meal. The addition of cranberries adds a sweet-tart note that perfectly balances the savory herbs.
4. Versatile Delight: Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a side dish, they pair beautifully with turkey, chicken, or even a simple garden salad. You might even find them becoming a favorite addition to your buffet table or potluck spread.
5. Family-Friendly Fun: Get the kids involved in rolling these little balls of goodness, creating cherished memories and delicious outcomes. It’s a wonderful way to introduce children to cooking and instilling a love for holiday traditions.

Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy

To bring this delightful dish to life, you don’t need a fancy kitchen or an array of gadgets. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining all those delicious ingredients. A large bowl will give you plenty of room to mix everything thoroughly without spilling.
• Baking Sheet: A trusty baking sheet ensures even cooking and golden perfection. Opt for a rimmed sheet to prevent any butter from dripping into the oven.
• Parchment Paper: Keeps those stuffing balls from sticking and makes for easy cleanup. It also helps in achieving a nice, even browning on the bottom.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements make for perfect flavors. Accurate measurements ensure that each ingredient contributes just the right amount of flavor.
• Basting Brush: Optional, for adding that extra layer of buttery goodness. This is particularly useful if you want a richer, more decadent finish.

With these simple tools at your disposal, you’ll find the process as comforting as the result. A well-organized setup makes the cooking experience enjoyable and stress-free.

How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy

INGREDIENTS

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 cups stuffing mix (gluten-free if needed)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup butter, melted (optional for extra flavor)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, stuffing mix, cranberries, chicken broth, egg, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Take care to distribute the herbs evenly for consistent flavor throughout each ball.
3. Mix until well combined, but do not overmix. Overmixing can result in dense, tough stuffing balls, so mix just until everything is incorporated.
4. Roll mixture into 16 golf ball-sized portions and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Try to keep them uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
5. Brush each ball with melted butter if desired for extra crispiness. The butter not only adds flavor but also helps in achieving a beautiful golden color.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F and outsides are golden brown. A meat thermometer is handy here to ensure they’re cooked through.
7. Let cool slightly, then serve warm with gravy or cranberry sauce. These additions enhance the flavors and add moisture, making each bite even more delightful.

Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: American • Preparation Time: 15 minutes • Cooking Time: 25 minutes • Total Time: 40 minutes • Calories: 120 per ball • Servings: 16

Note: For a twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the mix for a bit of extra holiday spice. Nutmeg adds warmth and depth, enhancing the overall festive feel.

Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients

These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are not just a treat for the taste buds but also pack a nutritional punch. Ground turkey provides a lean source of protein, making these balls a healthier alternative to traditional stuffing made with sausage. The dried cranberries add a hint of natural sweetness and are rich in antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress in the body. Sage and thyme are not only classic holiday herbs but also boast anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding digestion and boosting immunity. By using a gluten-free stuffing mix, this recipe can easily accommodate dietary restrictions, making it a universally appealing dish that everyone at your table can enjoy.

Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish

When it comes to serving these delightful stuffing balls, the possibilities are as endless as your holiday spirit. Pair them with a classic roasted turkey or a juicy roast chicken to complete a traditional meal. For something a little different, serve alongside a warm winter squash salad or a vibrant cranberry relish to complement the flavors. And let’s not forget the classics — a dollop of homemade gravy or a spoonful of cranberry sauce makes for the perfect finishing touch. You might also consider serving them with a side of roasted root vegetables or a creamy mashed potato to create a well-rounded and satisfying feast.

Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way

If you happen to have any leftovers (and that’s a big if!), these stuffing balls are just as delicious the next day. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy. For a fun twist, crumble them over a fresh salad or stuff them into a sandwich for a hearty lunch that keeps the holiday spirit alive. They’re also a great addition to a breakfast hash or served with a poached egg for a morning-after feast.

As we wrap up another culinary adventure together, I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. There’s something truly special about sharing a meal that’s been made with love, surrounded by those we cherish. So go ahead, roll up those sleeves, and let the magic of homemade cooking fill your kitchen with warmth and laughter. These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are sure to become a cherished part of your holiday tradition, bringing smiles and satisfaction to all who gather around your table.

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

These tasty cranberry turkey stuffing balls are a perfect appetizer or side dish for your holiday gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Cooling Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 16 balls

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Stuffing Balls

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 cups stuffing mix gluten-free if needed
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 egg beaten
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup butter melted, optional for extra flavor

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, stuffing mix, cranberries, chicken broth, egg, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until well combined, but do not overmix.
4. Roll mixture into 16 golf ball-sized portions and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush each ball with melted butter if desired for extra crispiness.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F and outsides are golden brown.
7. Let cool slightly, then serve warm with gravy or cranberry sauce.

Notes

These stuffing balls are a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer or a side. They hold up well for potlucks and can be made ahead of time and reheated just before serving. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or add-ins.