Imagine biting into a warm, golden-brown turkey stuffing ball bursting with the delightful tang of cranberries and savory herbs. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a cozy embrace, making your taste buds dance with anticipation. cozy one pot meal Welcome to the wonderful world of the Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe, where every bite screams holiday cheer and nostalgia! creamy white chicken chili. savory chicken meatballs.
As I recall my first attempt at these tasty morsels, I can’t help but chuckle. My kitchen looked like a winter wonderland exploded—a flour-covered battlefield of mixing bowls and spoons. But the laughter-filled chaos was worth it when I pulled out those crispy, flavorful balls from the oven. Perfect for Thanksgiving feasts or festive gatherings, these little delights will make you the star of any holiday event! For more inspiration, check out this festive breakfast delight recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These festive cranberry turkey stuffing balls are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
- The flavor profile combines sweet and savory notes that please everyone at the table.
- Their visual appeal adds a pop of color to your holiday spread, making them not just delicious but stunning as well.
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to enjoy as appetizers or a side dish!
Ingredients for Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Turkey: Opt for lean ground turkey for a healthier option that still packs plenty of flavor.
- Fresh Cranberries: Use whole cranberries for that burst of tartness; frozen cranberries work too if fresh ones aren’t available.
- Breadcrumbs: Choose plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind everything together while adding texture.
- Onion: Finely chopped onion provides a sweet base flavor that complements the turkey beautifully.
- Celery: Celery adds crunch and freshness; don’t skip it unless you really dislike it!
- Herbs (Sage and Thyme): Fresh or dried herbs elevate this dish with aromatic flavors reminiscent of traditional stuffing.
- Egg: This binds all ingredients together and helps achieve that perfect texture when baked.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare Vegetables
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions and celery until they soften—about five minutes should do the trick. Let them cool slightly before mixing into your turkey mixture.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, sautéed onion and celery, herbs, salt, pepper, and cranberries. Crack an egg into the mix; this is where the magic happens! Get your hands dirty—mix everything thoroughly until combined!
Step 4: Shape Your Stuffing Balls
Using your hands or a cookie scoop (because who doesn’t love gadgets?), form small balls about one inch in diameter. Place them on your prepared baking sheet—about two inches apart.
Step 5: Bake
Pop those beauties into your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them because nobody likes burnt stuffing balls!
Step 6: Serve
Transfer your festive cranberry turkey stuffing balls onto a serving platter. They are best enjoyed warm but also fantastic at room temperature—perfect for those who can’t wait!
Now you’re ready to impress family and friends with these scrumptious bites that blend nostalgia and flavor harmoniously!
You Must Know
- These festive cranberry turkey stuffing balls bring joy to any holiday table.
- They are not only delicious but also easy to make, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time with loved ones.
- Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that combines turkey and cranberries?
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, cook your turkey and sauté onions until they’re golden brown. Then mix everything together for perfectly delicious stuffing balls.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences. Try adding chopped nuts for crunch or swapping cranberries for raisins if you’re feeling adventurous. Spice it up with your favorite herbs too!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, keeping their delightful texture intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use day-old bread for optimal texture; it absorbs flavors better without getting mushy.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices like sage or thyme for added depth.
- Always allow the mixture to cool slightly before shaping into balls for easier handling.
I once brought these festive cranberry turkey stuffing balls to a family gathering, and they disappeared faster than my uncle’s famous potato salad! Everyone raved about them, and even my picky cousin went back for seconds.
FAQs :
What are the main ingredients in the Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe?
The main ingredients in the Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe include ground turkey, dried cranberries, bread crumbs, onions, celery, and a mix of spices. These elements combine to create a flavorful stuffing ball that is perfect for holiday gatherings. You can also add nuts or herbs for extra flavor. Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best taste and texture. This recipe provides a unique twist on traditional stuffing by incorporating cranberries, making it both savory and slightly sweet.
How long does it take to prepare the Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Preparing the Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls takes about 20 minutes of active prep time. After mixing all the ingredients together, you will need to form them into balls. Once prepared, bake them in the oven for approximately 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Overall, including baking time, you can expect to spend around an hour from start to finish. This makes it a manageable dish to include in your holiday cooking schedule without taking too much time away from other preparations.
Can I make the stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time. Prepare the mixture and form the balls as directed in the recipe. You can then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you could freeze them for longer storage; just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. This makes it easier to manage your holiday cooking schedule while ensuring that you still serve fresh and delicious stuffing balls at your gathering.
What should I serve with my Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
The Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls pair wonderfully with roasted turkey or chicken as part of your holiday feast. They also complement sides like mashed potatoes, gravy, and green bean casserole beautifully. For a lighter option, consider serving them with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. The unique flavor profile adds a festive touch to any meal and enhances your overall dining experience during celebrations or family gatherings.
Conclusion for Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe :
In conclusion, the Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe is a delightful addition to any holiday menu. With its combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberries, it offers a unique twist on traditional stuffing. The preparation is simple, taking under an hour from start to finish, making it easy to incorporate into busy cooking schedules. Whether served alongside turkey or with lighter options like salads, these stuffing balls are sure to impress your guests with their flavor and presentation!
Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
experience the joy of the holidays with these delectable Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. Each bite offers a perfect balance of savory turkey and tart cranberries, making them an ideal addition to your Thanksgiving feast. Easy to prepare and visually appealing, these stuffing balls will impress your guests and fill your home with warmth and nostalgia. Perfect for any festive gathering, they can be served as appetizers or a side dish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings (24 stuffing balls) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen)
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and celery until softened, about 5 minutes; let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, sautéed onion and celery, cranberries, herbs, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix thoroughly.
- Form mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet two inches apart.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffing balls (70g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: For added texture, consider incorporating chopped nuts or varying the herbs. Use day-old bread for better absorption of flavors in the stuffing mix. These can be made ahead of time; refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking or freeze for longer storage.




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