Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls: A Delicious Holiday Recipe to Impress Your Guests

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Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls: A Delicious Holiday Recipe to Impress Your Guests

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect way to elevate your holiday gatherings with a touch of style, flavor, and comfort. Imagine walking into your kitchen, where the warm, sweet aroma of cranberries intertwines with savory turkey and fragrant herbs, inviting family and friends to gather around. This step-by-step recipe not only blends flavors beautifully but also creates a delightful texture that is both tender and slightly crispy on the outside. These savory bites promise to be a conversation starter, adding an extra layer of joy to your festive table.

History / Fun Fact

The tradition of stuffing meats or vegetables for special occasions stretches back centuries, with roots in various cultures. The use of cranberries in stuffing, however, is distinctly American and showcases the bounty of the New World. Cranberries were a fundamental part of Native American diets long before the Pilgrims brought them to the table. Often associated with Thanksgiving, cranberry stuffing adds a sweet-tart punch that perfectly balances savory dishes. These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls celebrate not only the festive spirit but also the fusion of historical and modern culinary practices, making each bite a delicious nod to our collective past.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey: Lean and flavorful, this tender turkey meat serves as a protein-packed base, ensuring a satisfying bite.
• 2 cups stale bread, cubed (preferably sourdough or whole wheat): These cubes add structure and a comforting chew, soaking up the delicious juices and flavors.
• 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped: Bursting with tartness, these vibrant gems introduce a refreshing twist that brightens every mouthful.
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped: Sweet and aromatic, onions lend a depth of flavor that complements the turkey beautifully.
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped: This crunchy addition brings a delightful texture, and a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Vibrant green and fragrant, parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, making each bite more appealing.
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped: Their concentrated sweetness contrasts wonderfully with the tart fresh cranberries, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Pungent and aromatic, garlic infuses a savory depth and bolsters the culinary medley.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy and slightly minty, thyme wraps everything in a cozy, aromatic embrace.
• 1 teaspoon dried sage: Known for its slightly peppery flavor, sage perfectly complements poultry and adds warmth.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors, enhancing the dish’s overall profile.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A touch of heat and depth, lending an extra layer of flavor.
• 1 large egg, beaten: This acts as a binder, holding everything together for that perfect texture.
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth): Adding moisture and flavor, this ingredient ensures a succulent stuffing ball.
• Olive oil or cooking spray for greasing: A light coating to promote browning and crispiness.

Cooking Time & Tips For Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

When it comes to preparing your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, the cooking time can vary depending on your approach. While a quick preparation may have you whipping these up in about 30 minutes, taking your time allows for deeper flavors as ingredients meld together harmoniously.

Practical tips for success include ensuring your bread is adequately stale to prevent sogginess, and not over mixing the ingredients, which keeps your stuffing balls tender. Prepping the ingredients in advance can streamline the cooking process, allowing you to savor the experience without feeling rushed.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, stale bread cubes, chopped fresh cranberries, chopped onion, chopped celery, chopped parsley, and chopped dried cranberries. Feel the textures contrasting as you mix!

2. Add Aromatics: Sprinkle in the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried sage, salt, and black pepper. The scent of herbs will evoke warmth and comfort.

3. Prepare the Binder: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and chicken broth. Pour this mixture into the large bowl with the turkey and bread mixture. Mix well to incorporate the flavors.

4. Combine with Care: Gently mix everything together until well combined, taking care not to overmix; this prevents tough stuffing balls.

5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), letting the anticipation build as delicious appetizers begin to come together.

6. Shape the Balls: Using your hands, shape the mixture into balls, about 2 tablespoons each. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

7. Add a Touch of Oil: Lightly spray or brush the balls with olive oil, giving them a golden, crispy exterior.

8. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Optionally, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness. The aroma will fill your kitchen, drawing everyone in!

Serving Suggestions & Occasions

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls make for an exceptional appetizer or a delightful side dish during festive occasions such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, or family reunions. Pair them with homemade cranberry sauce, a dollop of herbed yogurt, or a tangy dipping sauce for an added flavor dimension. Guests will love the playful combination of textures and tastes.

Consider serving these stuffing balls at potlucks or holiday buffets, where they’re sure to impress and nourish a crowd. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for mingling, and their vibrant colors make for a festive presentation.

Common Mistakes For Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

One common mistake is using overly fresh bread, which can lead to soggy consistency. Stale bread aids in achieving the right texture. Not properly mixing the ingredients can also result in uneven flavors, so ensure an even distribution of herbs and spices. Another common error is not allowing the stuffing balls enough time to bake until golden, which could leave the centers undercooked. Lastly, overworking the mixture can yield tough stuffing balls; gentle mixing is key.

Healthier Alternatives & Variations

For a healthier version, consider using ground chicken or leaner cuts of turkey. Whole grain bread can be swapped for the stale bread to add extra fiber. Alternatively, for a gluten-free adaptation, use gluten-free bread or quinoa instead of bread cubes.

You can also customize the cranberries with diced apples for a touch of sweetness or add nuts for an extra crunch. If you desire a bit of heat, diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can be incorporated delicately.

FAQs

1. Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?
   Yes! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Shape and bake right before serving.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Absolutely! After baking, allow them to cool, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.

3. What can I substitute for turkey?
   Ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives work well as substitutes.

4. Can I add other vegetables?
   Certainly! Feel free to incorporate bell peppers, carrots, or even mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

5. What can I serve alongside these?
   They pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a simple green salad.

6. How can I make them spicier?
   Consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the mixture before baking.

Conclusion

These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls promise to be a hit at your next gathering, delivering a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will leave your guests wanting more. Their delightful taste, combined with warm memories of festive cooking, makes them an essential part of your holiday repertoire. With easy-to-follow instructions and the opportunities for customization, it’s time to dive into your kitchen and prepare this wholesome recipe. Trust us; your family will be reaching for seconds!

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Delicious bites that combine savory turkey, tart cranberries, and fragrant herbs, perfect for holiday gatherings.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten-Free Option

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 2 cups stale bread, cubed (preferably sourdough or whole wheat)
• 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• Olive oil or cooking spray for greasing

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, stale bread cubes, fresh cranberries, onion, celery, parsley, and dried cranberries.
2. Sprinkle in the minced garlic, thyme, sage, salt, and black pepper, and mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and chicken broth, then pour into the turkey mixture.
4. Gently combine all ingredients, being careful not to overmix.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Shape the mixture into balls, about 2 tablespoons each, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Lightly spray or brush the balls with olive oil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Optionally, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness.

Notes

Ensure your bread is adequately stale to prevent sogginess, and don’t overmix the ingredients for tender stuffing balls.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

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