🖋️ Written by Emma
Why Make This Recipe
Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful twist on traditional stuffing. They are not only perfect for Thanksgiving but also a great way to use leftover turkey. These little bites are tasty, easy to make, and can be served in many ways. They are juicy on the inside with a crispy outside, making them a favorite for both kids and adults.
How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of bread crumbs
- 1 cup of cooked turkey, shredded
- 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup of onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup of celery, diced
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup of chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 large egg
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, shredded turkey, chopped cranberries, diced onion, diced celery, and chopped parsley.
- In a separate bowl, mix chicken broth, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and the egg until well combined.
- Pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until everything is fully incorporated.
- Form the mixture into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and heated through.
- Serve warm as appetizers, side dishes, or as a main course.
How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls
These stuffing balls are versatile and can be served in many ways. You can present them as appetizers during a holiday party, serve them as a side dish with your main meal, or even enjoy them as a light main course. Pair them with some gravy or cranberry sauce for extra flavor.
How to Store Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before putting them in a freezer-safe container.
Tips to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Use day-old bread for better texture.
- Feel free to add other herbs like sage or rosemary for extra flavor.
- Make sure the celery and onion are finely diced to blend well with the other ingredients.
- Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your taste preference.
Variation
You can customize these stuffing balls by adding different ingredients. Some people like to add nuts for crunch, while others may include diced apples for sweetness. You can also use leftover chicken instead of turkey if you prefer.
FAQs
Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just form the balls and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with stuffing balls?
They pair well with gravy, cranberry sauce, and a fresh green salad. You could also serve them alongside roasted vegetables.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries can be used, but they are much more tart. You may want to add a bit of sugar to balance the flavor.
Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, turkey, cranberries, onion, celery, and parsley.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, thyme, salt, pepper, and egg.
- Pour liquid mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined.
- Form mixture into small balls and place on prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and heated through.
- Serve warm with cranberry sauce or gravy.
