Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

 This is a fantastic and modern twist on stuffing. Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a great way to enjoy the flavors of a holiday meal in a neat, individual portion. They can be an appetizer, a side dish, or even a main course.

Here is a complete recipe based on your ingredients, with instructions, tips, and optional additions to make them even more delicious.

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

These savory-sweet balls are moist, flavorful, and perfect for any gathering.

Yields: About 18-20 balls
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20-25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey (preferably 93% lean for moisture)

• 2 cups bread crumbs (see note below)

• 1 cup cooked cranberries (see note below)

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 large egg, lightly beaten

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning or dried sage

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Sauté Aromatics: In a small skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, cooked cranberries, the sautéed onion and garlic, fresh parsley, egg, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.

4. Mix Gently: Use your hands or a fork to mix everything together until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the turkey balls tough.

5. Form the Balls: Using damp hands (to prevent sticking), roll the mixture into golf ball-sized balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about an inch apart.

6. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown on the outside and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

7. Serve: Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. They are excellent with a simple gravy, cranberry sauce on the side, or a dollop of mashed potatoes.

Important Notes on Your Ingredients

• Bread Crumbs: For the best texture, use dry or stale bread crumbs. Fresh, soft breadcrumbs will make the mixture too wet. You can make your own by toasting 4-5 slices of bread and pulsing them in a food processor until crumbed.

• Cooked Cranberries: This likely means simple cranberry sauce.

  • If using canned jellied sauce, chop it up roughly before adding.

  • If using homemade whole-berry sauce, it’s perfect as is.

  • You can quickly make your own by simmering 1 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries with 1/4 cup orange juice or water and 2 tablespoons of sugar (or maple syrup) for about 10 minutes, until the berries burst and the sauce thickens. Let it cool before using.

Tips for Success & Flavor Variations

• Moisture is Key: Ground turkey can be lean. The egg and fat from sautéing help, but for extra moisture, consider adding 2-3 tablespoons of chicken broth or milk to the mixture.

• Add More Flavor:

  • Herbs: Add 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary along with the poultry seasoning.

  • Savory Depth: Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture.

  • Crunch: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped celery (sauté it with the onions) or 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans.

• Make-Ahead: You can assemble the balls, place them on the baking sheet, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

• Serving Ideas:

  • Appetizer: Serve them warm with a dipping sauce like a honey-mustard aioli or a thinned-down cranberry sauce.

  • Main Course: Serve them alongside a green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Enjoy your cooking! These stuffing balls are a surefire crowd-pleaser.