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Home » Recipe Index » Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

August 21, 2025 by Jacqueline

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These Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful addition to any holiday feast. Their unique blend of ground turkey, sweet cranberries, and aromatic herbs makes them not only flavorful but also versatile for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply looking for a comforting side dish, these stuffing balls will impress your guests and elevate your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these stuffing balls can be prepared in no time.
  • Packed with Flavor: The combination of turkey and cranberries creates a sweet and savory taste that everyone will enjoy.
  • Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering, they complement a wide range of main courses.
  • Make Ahead Option: Prepare the mixture ahead of time and bake just before serving for an effortless addition to your meal.
  • Healthy Ingredient Choices: Ground turkey is a lean protein, making this dish a healthier alternative to traditional stuffing.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather the necessary tools to streamline your cooking process. Having the right equipment will make preparing your Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls much easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

  • Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
  • Baking sheet: Using a baking sheet ensures even cooking and easy transfer from the oven to the table.
  • Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup quick and easy.

Ingredients

These delightful stuffing balls combine ground turkey with sweet cranberries and savory herbs, making them a perfect addition to any festive meal. They’re easy to make and packed with flavor!

For the Stuffing Balls

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley

How to Make Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your stuffing balls cook evenly.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl:
* Add the ground turkey.
* Mix in the dried cranberries, breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Add Moisture

Next:
* Pour in the chicken broth.
* Add the beaten eggs and chopped parsley.
* Stir the mixture until it is fully blended together.

Step 4: Shape the Balls

Now:
* Shape the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
* Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes:
* Check that they are cooked through and have turned golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

Finally:
Serve hot as a side dish or part of your festive meal. Enjoy your delicious Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls!

How to Serve Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

These Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your festive meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will delight your guests.

As a Side Dish

  • Pair these stuffing balls with roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious addition to your plate.
  • Serve alongside mashed potatoes and gravy for a classic combination everyone loves.

On a Salad

  • Toss the stuffing balls on a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a fresh, crunchy contrast.
  • Add them to a warm quinoa salad for extra protein and texture.

In a Wrap

  • Create a festive wrap by placing stuffing balls in a tortilla with lettuce, cranberry sauce, and cream cheese.
  • Use pita bread for a fun twist, adding cucumber slices for crunch.

As Appetizers

  • Skewer the stuffing balls with toothpicks and serve them as bite-sized appetizers at your holiday gathering.
  • Accompany them with dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch for added flavor.
Festive

How to Perfect Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

To ensure your Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

  • Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs provide more flavor compared to dried ones. Consider using fresh sage and thyme if available.
  • Don’t overmix: Overmixing can make the stuffing balls dense. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
  • Chill before baking: Refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes before shaping. This helps the flavors meld together and makes shaping easier.
  • Adjust seasoning: Taste the mixture before baking; feel free to adjust salt or spices according to your preference.
  • Bake on parchment paper: This prevents sticking and ensures even browning during baking.
  • Check doneness with a thermometer: Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Best Side Dishes for Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Pairing side dishes with your Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement their flavors beautifully.

  1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that pairs perfectly.
  2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These crispy sprouts add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor to balance the sweetness of cranberries.
  3. Green Bean Almondine – Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds add elegance and freshness to your plate.
  4. Sweet Potato Casserole – This sweet side dish brings warmth and richness, making it an inviting choice during festive meals.
  5. Cranberry Sauce – Enhance the flavor profile by serving cranberry sauce on the side; its tartness complements the stuffing balls well.
  6. Stuffed Acorn Squash – A hearty option filled with grains, nuts, and spices adds color and nutrition while being visually appealing.
  7. Cornbread – The slightly sweet cornbread is an excellent pairing that adds texture and a comforting taste to your feast.
  8. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad dressed with vinaigrette provides freshness that balances out heavier dishes nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls can be a joy, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

  • Overmixing the ingredients: This can make your stuffing balls tough. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
  • Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much or too little of any ingredient can alter the flavor. Use precise measurements for consistency.
  • Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season adequately can lead to bland stuffing balls. Don’t forget salt, pepper, and herbs for enhanced flavor.
  • Using stale breadcrumbs: Old breadcrumbs can affect the texture and taste. Make sure to use fresh breadcrumbs for better results.
  • Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven may lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure proper baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

  • Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
  • Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
  • Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep them moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to common questions about making Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls.

Can I make Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

What can I substitute for ground turkey?

You can use ground chicken or even plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian option.

How do I make these stuffing balls gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

What herbs work best with Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Besides sage and thyme, consider adding rosemary or parsley for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for any holiday meal. They offer a delightful combination of flavors that will impress your guests. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or add nuts for an extra crunch!

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Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
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Introducing Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, a must-have addition to your holiday table. These delightful bites combine the lean goodness of ground turkey with the sweetness of cranberries and a medley of aromatic herbs. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering, these stuffing balls are not only packed with flavor but also easy to prepare. Guests will love their savory-sweet taste, and you’ll appreciate how quickly they come together. Whether served as a side dish, appetizer, or salad topper, these turkey stuffing balls are versatile enough to complement any meal and are sure to impress your family and friends.

  • Author: Jacqueline
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 20 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, cranberries, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stir in chicken broth, eggs, and parsley until fully blended.
  4. Shape the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 123
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 170mg
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

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