As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to meal prep. That’s why I’m excited to share my Quick and Tasty Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Ball recipe with you! This dish is not only a delightful addition to your holiday table, but it’s also a quick solution for those hectic days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With its savory turkey and sweet cranberries, these stuffing balls are sure to become a family favorite, bringing warmth and joy to your gatherings.
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Quick and Tasty Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Ball Recipe You’ll Love
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make stuffing ball recipe featuring turkey and cranberries, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 cups bread crumbs
- 1 cup cranberries, dried
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sage
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, bread crumbs, dried cranberries, onion, celery, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Add the beaten eggs and chicken broth to the mixture and mix well.
- Form the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the stuffing balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey with chicken or pork.
- For a vegetarian option, use plant-based ground meat.
- These stuffing balls can be made ahead of time and frozen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Quick and Tasty Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Ball
This Quick and Tasty Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Ball recipe is a lifesaver for busy days. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish. The combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberries creates a flavor explosion that will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, these stuffing balls are versatile enough to serve at any gathering, making them a must-try for your holiday menu!
Ingredients for Quick and Tasty Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Ball
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Quick and Tasty Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Ball. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground turkey: A lean protein that keeps the stuffing light and flavorful.
- Bread crumbs: These provide the perfect base, adding texture and helping to bind everything together.
- Dried cranberries: They add a sweet and tangy burst, balancing the savory flavors beautifully.
- Onion: Chopped onion brings a savory depth that enhances the overall taste.
- Celery: This adds a nice crunch and freshness to the stuffing balls.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the dish with its vibrant color and flavor.
- Sage: A classic herb that complements turkey perfectly, giving it that holiday feel.
- Thyme: Another aromatic herb that adds warmth and earthiness to the mix.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
- Eggs: Beaten eggs act as a binder, helping the stuffing balls hold their shape.
- Chicken broth: This adds moisture and richness, making the stuffing balls even more delicious.
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute ground turkey with chicken or pork for a different flavor profile. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, plant-based ground meat works wonderfully too. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
How to Make Quick and Tasty Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Ball
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making these delightful Quick and Tasty Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish that’s sure to impress!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even cooking. If you skip this step, your stuffing balls might end up unevenly cooked, and nobody wants that!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, dried cranberries, chopped onion, celery, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until well combined. This is where the magic begins, as the flavors meld together beautifully!
Step 3: Add Eggs and Broth
Next, add the beaten eggs and chicken broth to the mixture. The eggs act as a binder, helping the stuffing balls hold their shape while baking. The broth adds moisture, making each bite juicy and flavorful. Mix everything until it’s just combined—don’t overdo it!
Step 4: Form the Balls
Now it’s time to shape your stuffing balls! Take a small handful of the mixture and roll it into a ball about 1 inch in diameter. Make sure they’re uniform in size for even cooking. If the mixture feels too sticky, wet your hands slightly to make shaping easier.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place the formed stuffing balls on the sheet, leaving a little space between each one. This allows them to cook evenly and get that lovely golden brown color.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and cooked through. A quick poke with a fork should reveal no pink inside. Serve them warm, and watch your family devour them!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh herbs for a vibrant flavor boost.
- Don’t overmix the ingredients; a gentle fold is best.
- For extra moisture, add a splash more chicken broth if needed.
- Let the stuffing balls cool slightly before serving to enhance their flavor.
- Experiment with spices like garlic powder for a unique twist.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. A sturdy pot can work in a pinch.
- Baking sheet: Essential for baking the stuffing balls. A casserole dish can be a great alternative.
- Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking. Aluminum foil can be used if you don’t have it.
- Measuring cups: For accurate ingredient portions. A kitchen scale is a handy substitute.
Variations
- Herbed Stuffing Balls: Add fresh rosemary or dill for a fragrant twist.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Cheesy Delight: Incorporate shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for a gooey center.
- Nutty Flavor: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread crumbs to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a light, balanced meal.
- Serve alongside mashed potatoes and gravy for a comforting feast.
- Complement with cranberry sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
- Offer a glass of white wine or sparkling cider to elevate the dining experience.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color on your serving platter.
FAQs about Quick and Tasty Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Ball
Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Quick and Tasty Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time and freeze them. Just shape the balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for ground turkey?
If you’re not a fan of turkey, feel free to swap it out for ground chicken or pork. Both options work beautifully in this recipe, giving you a different flavor profile while keeping the dish delicious. For a vegetarian twist, try using plant-based ground meat!
How do I know when the stuffing balls are done?
To check for doneness, look for a golden brown color on the outside. You can also use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). A quick poke with a fork should reveal no pink inside, ensuring they’re cooked through.
Can I add more vegetables to the stuffing balls?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. Chopped bell peppers, carrots, or even mushrooms can add extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them finely so they blend well with the other ingredients.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover Quick and Tasty Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving to enjoy their deliciousness all over again!
Final Thoughts
Creating these Quick and Tasty Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls has been a delightful journey for me, and I hope it brings you as much joy as it has brought my family. The blend of savory turkey and sweet cranberries creates a comforting dish that warms the heart. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking for a quick weeknight meal, these stuffing balls are sure to impress. I love how they can be made ahead of time, making life just a little easier. Enjoy every bite, and may your kitchen be filled with laughter and love!