These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a tasty twist on the traditional stuffing! Made with ground turkey, fluffy bread, and sweet cranberries, they pack a flavorful punch.
When I make these, they disappear fast! They’re perfect as a side dish or fun appetizers. Plus, who can resist that lovely combo of savory and sweet? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the main protein in the recipe. If you prefer something leaner, try ground chicken. Vegetarians can substitute with cooked lentils or a meat alternative like tempeh or tofu, seasoned well.
Stuffing Bread Cubes: Using prepared stuffing works great, but if you don’t have it, simply use dried bread cubes. You can make your own by drying out bread slices. Gluten-free bread works too!
Dried Cranberries: The cranberries add a sweet touch. You could swap these for raisins or chopped dried apricots if you want a different flavor.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh is best for flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can use onion and garlic powders. Just adjust the amounts to taste!
How Do I Get the Right Texture When Mixing the Ingredients?
Getting the right texture for your stuffing balls is key! Here’s a simple approach:
- Start by mixing the turkey with the wet ingredients like the egg and broth first. This helps keep the meat moist.
- Next, gently fold in the dry ingredients, like bread and spices. Avoid over-mixing; this can make them tough.
- If your mixture feels dry, add a touch more broth. You want it to hold together but not be too wet.
Baking or frying will also influence the final texture, making them crispy outside and tender inside. Just keep an eye on your cooking time!
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 2 cups stuffing bread cubes (prepared or leftover stuffing)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried parsley)
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying or baking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus cooking time. If you are baking, allow about 20-25 minutes in the oven. For pan-frying, expect about 12-16 minutes, ensuring the balls are nicely browned and cooked through. In total, you’re looking at around 35-40 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare:
First, set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C) if you plan to bake these delicious stuffing balls. If you’re frying them, get your skillet ready by lightly greasing it. Lining a baking sheet with parchment paper works great for baking, too!
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add in your ground turkey, stuffing bread cubes, dried cranberries, chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, the egg, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and black pepper. This is the fun part! Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined, but don’t overdo it. You want it to stick together, so if it feels a little too dry, just add a tad more chicken broth.
3. Shape the Balls:
Now comes the fun bit! With your hands, roll the mixture into balls about 1.5 inches in size. Place them carefully on your prepared baking sheet or in your skillet. They should look like little savory delights!
4. Cooking Time:
If you’re baking, drizzle some olive oil over the top of the balls for a lovely golden finish. Pop them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. If frying, heat the skillet over medium and cook the balls for 6-8 minutes per side until they’re a beautiful brown.
5. Let Them Rest:
After cooking, let your cranberry turkey stuffing balls sit for a few minutes. This helps them hold their shape and makes them easier to serve.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
These balls are best served warm. Feel free to garnish them with extra dried cranberries and fresh herbs for a special touch. Enjoy every savory, sweet bite of these delightful stuffing balls — perfect for gatherings or just because!
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will work just as well. It has a similar flavor and texture, making it an easy swap.
Can I Make These Stuffing Balls Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture in advance and shape the balls, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking or frying.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also freeze them for longer storage — just ensure they are well-sealed!
What Can I Serve These Stuffing Balls With?
These stuffing balls are versatile! Serve them as a side dish with holiday meals, or pair them with a dipping sauce like cranberry sauce or a creamy dressing. They also make great appetizers at parties!
