© Original Recipe By Mom’s Meals ©
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls for the Holidays 🎉🦃🍇
1. Introduction
Looking for a delicious holiday appetizer that combines the savory flavors of turkey and stuffing with a burst of tart cranberry? These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect festive treat to impress your guests. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, they make an excellent addition to your holiday table. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or just want a fun, flavorful snack, these stuffing balls will surely become a new favorite.
2. Ingredients for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 cups prepared stuffing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon sage
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Olive oil or cooking spray for baking or frying
3. How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls — Step-by-Step
Preparing the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, prepared stuffing, dried cranberries, chopped onion, minced garlic, thyme, sage, salt, pepper, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Forming the Balls
Using your hands, shape the mixture into small, evenly-sized balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased dish.
Cooking the Stuffing Balls
For healthier options, you can bake the stuffing balls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Alternatively, for a crispy exterior, use an air fryer like the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4. Storage Tips for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Allow the stuffing balls to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave until hot or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. For longer storage, freeze the balls for up to 1 month — just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
5. Serving Suggestions for Your Holiday Appetizer
Serve your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls hot, paired with tangy cranberry sauce or a flavorful gravy for dipping. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a festive touch. These balls go perfectly with other holiday favorites such as creamy spinach mushroom pasta or a fresh salad. Make sure to display them on a stylish platter to wow your guests!
6. Tips to Make Your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Perfect
- Use moist stuffing to prevent the mixture from drying out.
- Adjust seasonings to taste; adding a pinch of cinnamon or chili flakes can add a unique flavor twist.
- If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs to help bind everything together.
- For extra flavor, try adding chopped nuts or shredded cheese into the mix.
7. Frequently Asked Questions about Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Can I make a vegetarian version of these stuffing balls?
Yes! Replace ground turkey with plant-based protein or mashed chickpeas. Use vegetable broth or a binding egg substitute to keep the mixture cohesive.
How long does it take to prepare and cook?
The total time is approximately 45 minutes, including prep, forming, and cooking. Baking takes about 20-25 minutes, while air frying can be done in as little as 10-12 minutes.
Can I freeze these stuffing balls?
Absolutely! Freeze uncooked balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a storage container. Bake or air fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cooking time.
What are good side dishes to serve with these holiday appetizers?
They pair well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, green beans almondine, or a fresh cranberry relish.
8. Kitchen Tools that You Might Need for This Recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — This versatile appliance makes crisping your stuffing balls quick and easy, providing perfect results every time.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — Ideal for baking or sautéing the ingredients seamlessly.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — Perfect if you want to try grilling the stuffing balls for a smoky flavor.
9. Conclusion
These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a fantastic holiday appetizer that offers a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and tart flavors. Easy to prepare and versatile, they’re sure to be a hit at your holiday parties or family gatherings. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a memorable appetizer that embodies the festive spirit. So, gather your ingredients, utilize some handy kitchen tools, and get ready to wow your guests with this irresistible holiday treat!
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Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls for the Holidays
A delicious holiday appetizer combining turkey, cranberry, and stuffing in bite-sized balls.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 20 balls
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup cooked stuffing
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, cooked stuffing, cranberry sauce, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Form into small balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the balls until golden brown and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
Notes
- You can bake these instead of frying for a healthier option.
- Serve with extra cranberry sauce or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls
- Calories: 150 Kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg