Why Make This Recipe
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful twist on traditional stuffing. Perfect for a holiday feast or as a fun appetizer, these tasty bites combine the savory flavors of turkey and stuffing with a touch of sweetness from the cranberry sauce. They are simple to make and sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, they add a beautiful pop of color to your dish!
How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups stuffing mix
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, chopped
- 1 tsp sage
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, stuffing mix, cranberry sauce, chicken broth, onion, celery, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
- Shape the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the stuffing balls until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.
- Serve warm.
How to Serve Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
These stuffing balls can be served as an appetizer or side dish. They pair nicely with gravy or a side of cranberry sauce. You can place them on a serving platter for guests to help themselves or add them to a festive dinner plate. They also make a great addition to a lunchbox for a flavorful midday snack!
How to Store Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
To store leftover stuffing balls, let them cool completely and then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- For extra flavor, consider adding some chopped herbs or spices, such as garlic powder or parsley.
- If you prefer a little crunch, you can mix in some chopped nuts.
- Adjust the size of the balls based on your preference; smaller ones are great for appetizers, while larger ones can be served as a main dish.
Variation
You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or even a meat-free alternative for a vegetarian option. You might also try using different flavors of stuffing mix or even adding chopped apples for a fruity twist.
FAQs
Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Shape the balls and fry them just before serving for the best taste and texture.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! You can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are cooked through and golden brown.
What can I serve with these stuffing balls?
They are great on their own but can be served with gravy, extra cranberry sauce, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups stuffing mix
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, chopped
- 1 tsp sage
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, stuffing mix, cranberry sauce, chicken broth, onion, celery, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
- Shape the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Cooking
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the stuffing balls until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.
- Serve warm.