Introduction
As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, it’s time to gather around the table and enjoy the comforting flavors of the season. These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect addition to your holiday spread, offering a delightful blend of savory and sweet. With the juicy freshness of cranberries and the hearty goodness of ground turkey, each bite is a warm embrace of festive flavors. Whether you’re planning a big family feast or a cozy dinner, these stuffing balls are sure to impress your loved ones!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 cups stale bread cubes
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 large egg
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 24 stuffing balls
Directions and Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will create the perfect environment for your stuffing balls to bake to a golden brown.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, stale bread cubes, chopped cranberries, celery, onion, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir with a spoon until everything is evenly mixed, and the aroma of fresh herbs begins to fill your kitchen.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and egg until well combined. This will help bind your ingredients together.
- Pour the broth and egg mixture into the turkey mixture. Gently stir until all the ingredients are fully incorporated, creating a lovely, fragrant mixture.
- Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and form them into balls, about 2 inches in diameter. The tactile experience of shaping each ball is not just satisfying; it also means you’re creating little pockets of deliciousness!
- Place the stuffing balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they have a bit of space between them for even cooking.
- Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when your kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma!
- Once they’re baked, remove them from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. They’re perfect as an appetizer or a side dish.
Notes or Tips
If you’re short on time, you can make the mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before forming the balls. Also, feel free to customize the recipe by adding in your favorite herbs or spices!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes the simple technique of mixing and baking, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. The key is to ensure the mixture is well combined so that each stuffing ball has a perfect balance of ingredients. Baking them in a single layer on parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also promotes even cooking, giving you that golden finish.
FAQ
Can I freeze the stuffing balls? Yes! These stuffing balls freeze beautifully. Just shape them beforehand, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer to a sealed container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with the stuffing balls? They pair wonderfully with gravy, cranberry sauce, or even a zesty dipping sauce. They also make great additions to salads and grain bowls!
Conclusion
These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are not only a festive treat but also a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of the season. With their juicy cranberries and savory turkey, they are bound to be a hit at your holiday table. Enjoy these little bursts of flavor with your family and friends, and don’t forget to share the joy of cooking as you enjoy your delicious creations!