There’s something incredibly special about Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. They weave together familiar flavors of holiday gatherings and cozy family dinners, turning mealtime into a delightful celebration. These little bites pack a punch of flavor and nostalgia, making them perfect for any festive occasion or just a warm evening at home.
Growing up, my Dad, James, loved preparing hearty meals that brought the family together. I remember him teaching me how to include cranberries into savory dishes, transforming ordinary dinners into something truly beautiful and memorable. Those moments in the kitchen always filled our home with laughter and warmth.
A Story From The Heart
The scent of turkey and cranberries wafting through the kitchen reminds me of holiday gatherings at our family table. Dad would gather us around, sharing stories and laughter, while we eagerly awaited those golden bites emerging from the oven. Every time I make these Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, I feel like I’m wrapping my family in a warm hug.
What You’ll Need
To prepare these delightful stuffing balls, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Ground turkey
- Cranberries (fresh or dried)
- Stuffing mix
- Eggs
- Salt
- Pepper
- Herbs (like sage or thyme)
My Trusted Kitchen Tools
A few essential tools will help make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable:
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon for mixing
Bringing It All Together
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s important to have it hot and ready for the stuffing balls to ensure they cook evenly.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped cranberries, stuffing mix, and eggs. Season generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.
Tip: I like to use a wooden spoon so I can feel the ingredients blend nicely together!
Step 3: Shape the Balls
Once everything is mixed, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Tip: Wet your hands slightly to make shaping easier and less sticky!
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps with easy cleanup after baking.
Tip: Space them out evenly to allow for good air circulation while they cook.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the turkey is fully cooked and the balls are golden brown.
Tip: Trust your nose! The aroma will be your best indicator of when they’re ready.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve warm as an appetizer or side dish. There’s nothing quite like sharing those delicious, comforting bites with family or friends!
Making It Your Own (Swaps & Ideas)
Feel free to customize these stuffing balls! You could add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition. For a spicier version, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños. If you have leftovers, they are fantastic reheated in the oven!
How We Love to Serve It
I love serving these stuffing balls alongside a fresh green salad or cranberry sauce, which adds a delightful tartness. You can also pair them with mashed potatoes for a heartier meal or make a savory dip with yogurt and herbs.
A Few Tips For Success
- Ensure your ground turkey is well-seasoned to avoid bland stuffing balls.
- Don’t rush the mixing process, ensuring everything combines well takes time.
- Keep an eye on them while baking to avoid overcooking.
Saving Some For Later
These stuffing balls store beautifully! Simply allow them to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
From My Kitchen to Yours
I hope these Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls bring as much joy to your home as they do to mine. Food connects us, and every bite is a memory waiting to be made. Enjoy the warmth that comes from sharing these treats with those you love!
Your Questions, Answered
How do I know when the turkey stuffing balls are done?
You can check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer; it should read at least 165°F (74°C). The outside should be golden and slightly crisp.
Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just shape and bake when you’re ready to serve.
Are there vegetarian alternatives?
Yes! You can substitute the ground turkey with a combination of lentils, beans, or even mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavors.
Print
Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Poultry
Description
Delightful stuffing balls combining ground turkey and cranberries, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground turkey
- 1 cup Cranberries (fresh or dried, chopped)
- 1 box Stuffing mix
- 2 Eggs
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Pepper
- 1 tbsp Herbs (like sage or thyme)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped cranberries, stuffing mix, and eggs. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Serve warm as an appetizer or side dish.
Notes
Customize the stuffing balls with chopped vegetables or add jalapeños for a spicy kick. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: stuffing balls, turkey, cranberry, festive, appetizer, holiday