Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Name: Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups bread crumbs; 1 cup cooked turkey, shredded; ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped; ½ cup onion, finely diced; ½ cup celery, diced; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; ¼ cup chicken broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 large egg

Published: May 27, 2025

by Sofia

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Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect way to transform your holiday leftovers into a delightful dish. These savory spheres combine tender turkey, sweet cranberries, and fragrant herbs, making them ideal for festive gatherings or cozy dinners. Serve them warm alongside gravy or cranberry sauce for an unforgettable treat that everyone will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.
Flavorful Combination: The blend of turkey, cranberries, and herbs creates a delicious taste that is both savory and slightly sweet.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy these stuffing balls as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course. They fit perfectly into any meal.
Great for Leftovers: Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into something new and exciting without wasting any food.
Crowd-Pleaser: These stuffing balls are sure to impress guests at holiday parties or family get-togethers.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls effortlessly, gather the necessary tools before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper or cooking spray
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without spills.
Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking for each stuffing ball while keeping your oven clean.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2 cups bread crumbs
– 1 cup cooked turkey, shredded
– ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
– ½ cup onion, finely diced
– ½ cup celery, diced
– ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
– ¼ cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– ½ tsp black pepper
– 1 large egg

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
* bread crumbs
* cooked turkey
* dried cranberries
* onion
* celery
* fresh parsley

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Introduce flavor by adding:
* dried thyme
* salt
* black pepper

Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly seasoned.

Step 4: Mix in Broth and Egg

Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the egg. Stir until you achieve a consistent mixture. If the combination appears too dry, gradually add more broth until it reaches the desired texture.

Step 5: Form the Stuffing Balls

Using about 2 tablespoons of the mixture for each ball, roll them into spheres. Place them on your prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Watch for a golden hue and ensure they are fully cooked through.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Enjoy your Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls warm! Pair them with gravy or cranberry sauce for extra flavor.

How to Serve Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. They make for a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side, or even as part of a main course. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

As an Appetizer

Serve warm with a side of gravy for dipping, adding a rich flavor to each bite.
Pair with cranberry sauce for a sweet and tangy contrast that complements the stuffing balls perfectly.

With a Salad

Place on top of a mixed greens salad for a hearty addition that brings texture and flavor.
Serve alongside a Caesar salad, where the creamy dressing complements the savory stuffing.

In a Sandwich

Use them in a turkey sandwich by pairing with fresh lettuce and sliced tomatoes.
Create a stuffing ball wrap using tortillas, adding your favorite veggies and sauces.

As Part of a Platter

Arrange on a large platter with cheese and crackers, making it perfect for gatherings or parties.
Include them in a charcuterie board, paired with nuts and dried fruits for variety.

How to Perfect Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

To achieve the best results with your Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls, consider these helpful tips. These will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.

Use day-old bread: This helps absorb moisture better, creating firmer stuffing balls.
Chill the mixture: Refrigerating the mixture for about 30 minutes before rolling makes it easier to shape.
Adjust seasoning: Tasting the mix before baking allows you to add more herbs or spices if desired.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Giving each ball space ensures even cooking and browning.
Experiment with flavors: Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and taste.
Serve immediately: For the best texture, enjoy them right after baking while they’re still warm.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here’s a list of some excellent options to complement your meal.

Green Bean Casserole – A classic side that adds creaminess and crunch, perfect for holiday feasts.
Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting pairing that balances out the stuffing balls nicely.
Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts bring color and nutrition to your plate.
Sweet Potato Mash – The sweetness provides contrast to the savory stuffing balls, enhancing overall flavor.
Cornbread Muffins – These add a touch of sweetness and are great for soaking up any gravy or sauce.
Apple Sauce – This fruity option offers refreshing acidity, cutting through the richness of the stuffing balls.
Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw adds brightness and texture, making it an ideal side dish choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too much can make the stuffing balls tough. Stir gently until just combined for a tender texture.
Not using stale bread: Fresh bread can lead to soggy stuffing. Use day-old or toasted bread crumbs for the best results.
Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in bland flavors. Taste your mixture before rolling into balls and adjust seasonings as needed.
Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the mixture can cause the stuffing balls to fall apart while baking. Chill for at least 30 minutes before shaping them.
Crowding the baking sheet: Placing too many on one sheet can lead to uneven cooking. Space them out for even browning and cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick pan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls gluten-free?

You can substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free options such as rice crumbs or gluten-free bread.

Can I use leftover turkey from Thanksgiving?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using up Thanksgiving leftovers, particularly shredded turkey.

What herbs work best with Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

In addition to thyme, you might consider using sage or rosemary for added flavor depth.

How do I prevent my stuffing balls from falling apart?

Ensure that your mixture is well combined and consider chilling it before shaping it into balls, which helps them hold together during baking.

Can I add other ingredients to the stuffing balls?

Yes! Feel free to customize with nuts, cheese, or other dried fruits according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are not only delicious but also a fantastic way to use up holiday leftovers creatively. They are versatile enough to serve as appetizers or side dishes and can easily be customized with your favorite flavors. Don’t hesitate—try this recipe today!