Introduction

Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are a flavorful twist on traditional Thanksgiving fare, combining the savory goodness of turkey and herbs with the sweet tartness of cranberries. These bite-sized balls pack all the best elements of a holiday meal into one convenient and delicious bite. Whether you’re looking for a creative appetizer, a party snack, or a fun side dish for your holiday feast, these stuffing balls will impress guests and bring a festive touch to your table.

The ground turkey is mixed with stuffing mix, cranberries, celery, and herbs to create a perfectly moist, tender, and flavorful dish. The sage, thyme, and garlic powder add that comforting holiday flavor, while the cranberries provide a refreshing sweetness. These stuffing balls are easy to make and bake in under 30 minutes, making them a must-try for any fall or winter gathering.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
• 1 cup stuffing mix (pre-packaged or homemade)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 tsp dried sage
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 egg, beaten

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Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature while you prepare the stuffing balls.
2. Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

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Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

1. Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, add 1 lb of ground turkey, 1 cup of stuffing mix, 1/2 cup of chopped dried cranberries, 1/2 cup of finely chopped celery, 1/4 cup of finely chopped onion, 1/4 cup of chicken broth, and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley.
2. Season the mixture: Add 1/2 teaspoon of dried sage, 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the bowl.
3. Add the egg: Pour in the beaten egg and mix everything together. Using your hands or a spoon, combine the ingredients until evenly incorporated, ensuring the flavors are well distributed throughout the mixture.

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Step 3: Form the Balls

1. Shape the stuffing balls: Take about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Repeat this process with the remaining mixture.
2. Place on the baking sheet: Arrange the stuffing balls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is space between each ball to allow for even cooking.

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Step 4: Bake the Stuffing Balls

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The stuffing balls should be golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
2. Cool slightly: Once the stuffing balls are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

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Cooking Notes

• Stuffing mix: You can use a store-bought stuffing mix for convenience or make your own by toasting bread cubes and seasoning them with poultry seasoning, sage, and thyme.
• Ground turkey alternatives: For a different flavor profile, ground chicken or pork can be substituted for turkey.
• Add-ins: Feel free to add additional ingredients such as chopped nuts, grated cheese, or even bacon bits to give your stuffing balls an extra boost of flavor and texture.

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Serving Suggestions

• Holiday side dish: Serve these stuffing balls as a festive side alongside turkey, mashed potatoes, and gravy for a modern twist on classic holiday dishes.
• Appetizer: These make great appetizers for holiday parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. Serve with cranberry sauce or gravy for dipping.
• Snack: Enjoy them as a light snack or finger food with a drizzle of gravy or even a creamy dipping sauce like aioli.

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Tips

• Make-ahead: You can prepare the stuffing mixture and form the balls ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freezing: These stuffing balls freeze well. After baking, allow them to cool completely and then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Moisture control: If your mixture feels too dry, add a bit more chicken broth, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the mixture holds together well.

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Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

20-25 minutes

Total Time:

35-40 minutes

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Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 140 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Sodium: 290mg

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Conclusion

Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious and festive twist on traditional holiday stuffing. With the savory flavor of turkey, the sweetness of dried cranberries, and a medley of herbs, these stuffing balls offer a mouthful of holiday cheer in every bite. They’re easy to make, perfect for any holiday gathering, and a creative way to enjoy classic Thanksgiving flavors. Serve them as a side dish, snack, or appetizer, and watch them disappear from the table!

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