Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect blend of savory turkey, tangy cranberries, and fragrant herbs that come together to create a delicious and healthy treat for any festive occasion. These stuffing balls are not just flavorful, but they are also a nutritious option rich in protein, making them an ideal choice for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Why make this Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls recipe
- Protein-rich: Packed with ground turkey, these stuffing balls provide a healthy dose of lean protein.
- Quick prep: With just a few simple steps, you can whip these up in no time.
- Meal-prep friendly: They store well, making them a great option for meal planning.
- Budget-friendly: Made from basic ingredients, they’re easy on the wallet.
- Kid-approved: The combination of flavors is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
"These Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a hit at our family gatherings! Everyone loves them!" – Sarah M.
How to make Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Making Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls is a simple process that requires minimal equipment. You will need a large mixing bowl, a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and your hands for shaping the meatballs. Just follow the straightforward steps outlined below to bring this scrumptious dish to life. For further inspiration, check out our recipe for healthy meal prep ideas!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 cups bread crumbs
- 1 cup cranberries, dried
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
When preparing these Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, feel free to adjust the ingredients to your taste. For instance, you can substitute whole-grain bread crumbs for a healthier option or use pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, bread crumbs, dried cranberries, onion, garlic, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Mix in the eggs and chicken broth until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are cooked through and golden brown.
- Serve warm.
For a delightful side to accompany these stuffing balls, you might enjoy our Creamy Chicken Casserole that complements the flavors perfectly.
How to serve Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
These Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a main course. Pair them with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. They also work wonderfully drizzled with a balsamic reduction or served with a yogurt-based dip. For a nutritious touch, consider pairing them with steamed broccoli or a light quinoa salad.
How to store
To store your Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last for about 4-5 days. If you want to store them for longer, they can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For safe storage timing, see USDA FoodData Central.
Tips to make
- Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor profile.
- If the mixture is too wet, add additional bread crumbs.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Ensure the turkey is fully cooked by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Variations
There are countless ways to customize these Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. Use ground chicken or lean beef instead of turkey for a different flavor. You can also experiment by adding vegetables like diced bell peppers or mushrooms or incorporate different dried fruits such as apricots or raisins for sweetness.
FAQs
Can I make Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just shape and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
These stuffing balls pair well with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.
How do I know when the stuffing balls are done?
The stuffing balls are ready when they turn golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I freeze the leftover stuffing balls?
Absolutely! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
For more tips and recipes, check out Serious Eats for delicious meal ideas that suit every taste!
Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious, healthy, and easy addition to your holiday table or any gathering. Share your thoughts in the comments below and let us know how your version turned out!
Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 cups bread crumbs Can substitute with whole-grain bread crumbs.
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage Fresh herbs can be used for enhanced flavor.
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, bread crumbs, dried cranberries, onion, garlic, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Mix in the eggs and chicken broth until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cooking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are cooked through and golden brown.
- Serve warm.