Thanksgiving is that magical time of year when your kitchen transforms into a bustling hub of aromas, laughter, and the occasional culinary mishap. One dish that never fails to steal the show is Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. Imagine biting into a warm, savory ball bursting with flavors of tender turkey, zesty cranberries, and a blend of herbs that dance on your palate, making you forget all about your diet. pumpkin chili recipe delicious pecan pie These delightful little morsels are not just food; they’re little bites of joy that bring back memories of family gatherings filled with laughter and love.
Picture this: it’s Thanksgiving Day, and the family has gathered around the table. With every bite of those stuffing balls, you can sense your grandma’s spirit hovering around, probably nodding in approval while reminding you not to take too many because “you won’t be able to fit into your pants later!” The excitement builds as everyone dives in, knowing these Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls will become an instant favorite at any holiday gathering. deviled eggs for Thanksgiving.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for large gatherings
- Bursting with complementary flavors, they add a festive touch
- Their golden-brown exterior makes them visually appealing on any platter
- Versatile enough to enjoy as appetizers or alongside turkey on your dinner plate
I remember the first time I made these stuffing balls; my family’s reaction was priceless—they practically fought over the last one!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Turkey: Opt for lean ground turkey for a healthier option without compromising flavor.
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Cranberries: Dried cranberries offer a sweet tanginess that balances beautifully with savory flavors. sweet potato au gratin.
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Breadcrumbs: Use fresh breadcrumbs for added texture; stale ones just won’t cut it.
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Onion: Finely chopped onion adds moisture and sweetness; sauté until translucent for the best results.
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Celery: Chopped celery brings crunch and freshness—don’t skip this ingredient!
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Fresh Herbs: A mix of parsley and sage elevates these balls from good to unforgettable.
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Eggs: Bind everything together perfectly; make sure they’re at room temperature for better mixing.
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while adding flavor.
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Salt and Pepper: Season generously—taste as you go for the best flavor balance.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping onions and celery finely. Measure out breadcrumbs and dried cranberries so everything is ready to go when you start mixing.
Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions and celery until they soften and turn fragrant—about 5 minutes should do it.
Mix It All Up: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, sautéed veggies, breadcrumbs, cranberries, herbs, eggs, salt, pepper, and broth. Mix until everything is just combined; don’t overdo it!
Shape Into Balls: Using your hands (or an ice cream scoop if you’re fancy), shape the mixture into small balls about 1-2 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake Them Perfectly: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the stuffing balls for about 25-30 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Serve & Enjoy: Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving. Arrange them on a platter or serve straight from the baking sheet—just be prepared for everyone to dive in immediately!
Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are more than just food; they’re tradition wrapped in flavor—a perfect addition to any holiday feast or casual gathering! For more inspiration, check out this crab stuffed mushrooms recipe recipe.
You Must Know
- Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are bursting with flavor and texture
- These bite-sized delights add a festive charm to any holiday table, making them irresistible for guests
- Plus, they are easy to prepare in advance, so you can kick back and enjoy the festivities!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and celery until fragrant. Then combine all ingredients in a bowl before forming the stuffing balls. Bake them until golden brown for the best results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cranberries for raisins or add chopped nuts for extra crunch. A dash of your favorite herbs can also elevate the flavors!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use day-old bread for a better texture; it helps the stuffing hold together nicely
- Don’t rush the sautéing process; caramelizing onions enhances their sweetness
- Finally, keep your mixture slightly moist to prevent dry stuffing balls
Cooking these Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen filled with laughter and warmth, as we’d eagerly wait for her holiday feasts.
FAQ
Can I make Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and simply bake before serving.
What can I substitute for turkey?
You could use chicken or even a plant-based alternative if preferred!
How do I know when they’re fully cooked?
They should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F when done.
Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful blend of savory ground turkey, tangy cranberries, and aromatic herbs. These bite-sized treats are perfect for holiday gatherings, bringing warmth and nostalgia to your table. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, they make a festive addition that everyone will love. Whether as appetizers or a side dish, these stuffing balls are sure to steal the show.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp fresh sage, chopped
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, cranberries, herbs, eggs, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-2 inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffing balls (80g)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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