Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with holiday cheer and flavor, these Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are going to become your new go-to. Imagine tender turkey mingling with the sweet tartness of dried cranberries, all wrapped up in savory herbs and a golden, perfectly baked exterior. They bring just the right balance of juicy, chewy, and crispy textures that scream festive celebration on any holiday table. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or simply want to add a cozy twist to your dinner, this recipe will delight everyone with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in these stuffing balls plays a crucial role, bringing together taste, texture, and vibrant color to create a perfectly balanced dish. Nothing fancy or complicated – just wholesome basics that pack a flavorful punch.

• 1 pound ground turkey: The hearty, lean protein base that keeps the stuffing balls moist and flavorful.
• 1 cup dried cranberries: These add sweet-tart bursts of bright red color and a festive pop of flavor.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind everything together while creating a tender texture inside.
• 1 onion, diced: Adds savory depth and a slight sweetness once baked.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a subtle warmth and aromatic punch to every bite.
• 1 teaspoon dried sage: A classic herb that immediately evokes holiday comfort and earthiness.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Enhances the herbal notes without overpowering the turtle and cranberry combo.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing flavors and enhancing every ingredient.
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Just enough to add a gentle kick and warmth.
• 1/4 cup chicken broth: Keeps the mixture moist and tender while baking.
• 2 eggs, beaten: Acts as a natural binder that holds the balls together beautifully.
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley: Fresh, bright, and color-boosting for a finishing touch.

How to Make Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready and hot when your stuffing balls are shaped. A properly preheated oven helps create that gorgeous golden exterior everyone craves.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, dried cranberries, breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This mix holds all the savory, sweet, and aromatic ingredients that make Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls so special.

Step 3: Add the Liquids

Pour in the chicken broth, beaten eggs, and sprinkle in the chopped parsley. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated, resulting in a mixture ready to be shaped without falling apart.

Step 4: Shape the Balls

Using your hands, gently form the mixture into equally sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This keeps cleanup easy and allows the stuffing balls to cook evenly with a perfect shape.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake the balls in your preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re cooked through and boast a golden-brown crust that’s slightly crisp on the outside but tender inside.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve these delightful Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls hot, straight from the oven. They’re sturdy enough to stand alone but versatile enough to take a spot alongside your holiday favorites.

How to Serve Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like rosemary sprigs or extra chopped parsley can be sprinkled generously over the balls for a fresh burst of color and flavor. A light drizzle of a balsamic glaze or cranberry sauce can elevate their festive appeal even more.

Side Dishes

These stuffing balls shine when paired with classic holiday sides such as roasted Brussels sprouts, mashed sweet potatoes, or a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette. Their slight sweetness complements savory and earthy dishes beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party option, serve your Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls on skewers alongside chunks of roasted vegetables or cheese cubes for an easy-to-grab appetizer. You can also tuck them into small slider buns and top with cranberry aioli for a festive twist on mini sandwiches!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover stuffing balls keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes them perfect for quick lunches or easy additions to your weeknight meals after the holiday hustle.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked stuffing balls by placing them on a tray lined with parchment paper and freezing until firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls anytime you want a festive treat.

Reheating

To reheat, bake the stuffing balls at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through, which keeps their crispy exterior intact. Alternatively, warming them gently in the microwave works for a quicker option, though you might lose some crispness.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken makes a great substitute and will work wonderfully with the cranberries and herbs, providing a similar texture and flavor profile.

Are these stuffing balls gluten-free?

You can make them gluten-free by swapping regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs. This switch keeps the texture intact while accommodating dietary needs.

Can I prepare the mixture the day before baking?

Yes, you can mix everything in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator overnight. Just shape and bake your balls fresh when you’re ready to serve for optimal texture.

What can I use if I don’t have chicken broth?

Vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of salt will work just fine if you don’t have chicken broth on hand. The broth mainly adds moisture and a slight depth of flavor.

How do I know when the stuffing balls are fully cooked?

They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have a golden-brown crust on the outside. The juices should run clear when cut into.

Final Thoughts

These Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls bring so much joy and warmth to the table, you’ll wonder why you never tried them sooner. Easy to make and packed with layers of flavor, they’re sure to become a cherished holiday dish in your family’s rotation. So go ahead and give this recipe a try — your festive celebrations will be all the more delicious for it!

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