Zesty Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe – Festive Bites

Crafting delectable cranberry turkey stuffing balls brings comfort and joy to holiday gatherings.

Savory aromas will dance through your kitchen, promising a delightful culinary adventure.

Tender morsels of seasoned stuffing combine with tangy cranberries for a surprising twist.

Crispy exterior and soft interior create a perfect balance of textures you’ll adore.

These bite-sized delights offer a playful spin on traditional side dishes.

Festive and easy to prepare, they make entertaining a breeze.

Guests will be reaching for seconds before you know it.

Twist Ideas For Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

• Vegetarian Stuffing Balls: Replace ground turkey and bacon with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu, using mushrooms for umami depth and adding extra herbs for flavor complexity.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap bread cubes and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like quinoa, rice, or almond flour to create a celiac-friendly version while maintaining similar texture.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Substitute bread elements with riced cauliflower, chopped nuts, and additional herbs, creating a protein-rich stuffing ball that's keto-friendly and lighter in carbohydrates.
• Mediterranean-Inspired Variation: Incorporate feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano into the mixture, transforming the classic recipe with vibrant Mediterranean ingredients and aromatic seasonings.

Best Pairings For Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

• Pair with Bright Chardonnay: Select a crisp, unoaked Chardonnay with citrus undertones to complement the herbal turkey and bacon flavors, cutting through the richness of the stuffing balls.
• Serve with Cranberry Spritzer: Create a light, refreshing drink mixing cranberry juice, sparkling water, and a splash of orange zest that echoes the dried cranberries in the recipe and cleanses the palate.
• Match with Apple Walnut Salad: Prepare a side salad featuring crisp apple slices, toasted walnuts, and a light vinaigrette to provide a crunchy, tangy contrast to the savory stuffing balls.

How To Store Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls Properly

• Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days when sealed properly in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual stuffing balls tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags. Freeze for up to 2 months to preserve texture and flavor.
• Place stuffing balls on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel. Warm at 50% power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway to prevent drying out.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Arrange stuffing balls on a baking sheet, lightly drizzle with chicken broth to maintain moisture.

Questions About Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

• Are these stuffing balls healthy?

Yes, they’re a protein-rich alternative to traditional stuffing, using lean ground turkey and nutrient-dense herbs like sage and thyme, making them a healthier holiday side dish.

• Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the mixture and form balls up to a day in advance, store covered in the refrigerator, and bake when ready to serve. They can also be frozen before baking.

• What if I don't have dried cranberries?

No problem. You can substitute with chopped dried cherries, raisins, or even chopped apricots for a similar sweet and tangy flavor profile in the stuffing balls.

Why Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls Stand Out

• Craft Flavorful Bites: Combine turkey, bacon, and herbs into delightful stuffing balls that burst with thanksgiving-inspired taste sensations.
• Quick Crowd-Pleaser Preparation: Create these stuffing balls in minimal steps with simple ingredients, perfect for gatherings and family meals without complicated techniques.
• Versatile Serving Option: Enjoy as an appetizer, side dish, or main course that adapts seamlessly to different dining scenarios and dietary preferences.
• Nutritious Protein-Packed Treat: Pack lean ground turkey and savory bacon into a balanced dish offering substantial nutrition with incredible flavor complexity.

Ingredients For Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

• Ground Turkey: Provides a lean and flavorful protein foundation for the stuffing balls.
• Turkey Bacon: Adds a smoky depth and extra richness to the meat mixture.

• Eggs: Help bind the ingredients together and create a cohesive texture.
• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and enhances the overall flavor of the stuffing balls.

• Dried Bread Cubes, Breadcrumbs: Create structure and absorb moisture in the stuffing mixture.
• Dried Cranberries: Introduces a sweet and tangy element to balance the savory flavors.

• Onions, Celery: Provide a classic flavor base and aromatic foundation for the stuffing.
• Fresh Sage, Fresh Thyme: Contribute bright, herbal notes to the overall taste profile.
• Dried Rosemary: Offers an earthy and robust herbal undertone.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the other ingredients.

• Olive Oil: Used to sauté the vegetables and add a subtle richness to the dish.

How To Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Fire up the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfect non-stick surface.

Step 2: Mix Meaty Goodness

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey and chopped turkey bacon. Break down any large meat chunks to ensure everything blends smoothly.

Step 3: Add Bread And Flavor Boosters

• Dried bread cubes
• Breadcrumbs
• Dried cranberries

Gently fold everything together without squishing the ingredients.

Step 4: Herb It Up

• Sage
• Thyme
• Dried rosemary
• Salt
• Black pepper

These herbs will make your stuffing balls burst with incredible flavor.

Step 5: Sauté Veggie Base

Cook diced onions and celery in olive oil until they become soft and release their mouthwatering aroma. The vegetables will add depth to your stuffing.

Step 6: Create Binding Liquid

Whisk eggs and chicken broth together. Pour this magical mixture over the meat and bread combination to help everything stick together perfectly.

Step 7: Blend Carefully

Mix all ingredients thoroughly but gently. You want a light and airy texture that will make these stuffing balls irresistible.

Step 8: Shape The Balls

Using clean hands or a small scoop, create compact balls about 2 inches wide. Place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 9: Bake To Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Rotate the tray halfway through to ensure every ball gets beautifully golden and crispy.

Step 10: Rest And Serve

Pull the stuffing balls out when they’re golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in all those incredible flavors.

Helpful Tips For Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

• Gentle Mixing Magic: Combine ingredients delicately to maintain a light, fluffy texture without compressing the mixture, ensuring tender stuffing balls.
• Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F, guaranteeing safe and perfectly cooked turkey mixture.
• Moisture Management: Include eggs and chicken broth as crucial binding agents that keep the stuffing balls moist and prevent them from becoming dry or crumbly.
• Flavor Boost Technique: Sauté onions and celery before adding them to the mixture, which intensifies their aromatic qualities and deepens the overall taste profile.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare stuffing balls in advance and refrigerate, then bake just before serving for convenient meal preparation and enhanced flavor melding.

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

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4.7 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 50-60 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Succulent Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls bring festive holiday comfort to classic comfort food. Crispy exterior and tender interior blend savory turkey, tart cranberries, and herb-infused stuffing for a perfect bite you’ll crave at every celebration.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein

• 2 lbs ground turkey
• 1 cup chopped turkey bacon

Bread and Grains

• 4 cups dried bread cubes
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Seasonings and Moisture

• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp fresh sage
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme
• 1 tbsp dried rosemary
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup diced onions
• 1/4 cup diced celery

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, creating a non-stick surface for the stuffing balls.
2. Combine ground turkey and chopped turkey bacon in a large mixing bowl, breaking down any large meat chunks to ensure even distribution.
3. Add dried bread cubes, breadcrumbs, and dried cranberries to the meat mixture, gently folding to integrate all components without compressing the ingredients.
4. Finely chop fresh sage, thyme, and incorporate them into the mixture along with dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper for robust herbal seasoning.
5. Sauté diced onions and celery in olive oil until translucent and fragrant, releasing their aromatic flavors and softening their texture.
6. Whisk eggs and chicken broth together, then pour over the meat and bread mixture, acting as a binding agent to help the stuffing balls hold their shape.
7. Gently mix all ingredients until thoroughly combined, being careful not to overmix and maintain a light, airy texture.
8. Using clean hands or a small scoop, form compact balls approximately 2 inches in diameter, placing them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, rotating the tray halfway through to ensure uniform browning and crispy exteriors.
10. Remove from oven when golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F, allowing the stuffing balls to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Check meat temperature carefully to prevent undercooking and ensure food safety, using a reliable meat thermometer for precise readings.
• Experiment with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for those with wheat sensitivities, maintaining the same texture and binding properties.
• Use fresh herbs when possible for more vibrant flavors, but dried herbs work perfectly as a convenient alternative without sacrificing taste.
• Allow mixture to rest for 10 minutes before forming balls to help ingredients meld and enhance overall flavor profile of the stuffing.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg