Thanksgiving is that magical time of year when everyone gathers around the table, and the air fills with mouthwatering aromas. Picture this: tender turkey, savory stuffing, and a sweet potato au gratin-recipe/”>Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Au Gratin These Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are not just a dish; they are a festive explosion of flavor that will have your guests begging for seconds.
I still remember the first time I made these delightful morsels. It was Thanksgiving, and my family had high expectations. As I pulled these golden-brown balls from the oven, the room erupted with oohs and aahs. Thanksgiving Apple Pie They not only looked stunning but also tasted like a holiday hug for your taste buds. Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they quickly became a family favorite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy holiday cooks
- Their unique blend of flavors creates an unforgettable taste experience
- Visually appealing, they add festive color to your holiday spread
- Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or side dish, they’re sure to impress!
Everyone at my Thanksgiving dinner raved about how delicious these turned out!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey gives these stuffing balls a healthy twist while maintaining great flavor.
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Stale Bread: Use day-old bread for the best texture; it absorbs flavors without turning mushy.
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Cranberries: Dried cranberries add sweetness and tartness, balancing well with savory ingredients.
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Onion: A finely chopped onion brings in aromatic depth; opt for yellow onions for sweetness.
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Celery: Chopped celery adds crunch and freshness; don’t skip this essential ingredient!
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Poultry Seasoning: This mix of herbs gives our stuffing balls that classic flavor we all love during Thanksgiving.
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping everything moist.
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Eggs: Eggs act as a binder, holding everything together perfectly; fresh eggs work best here.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a savory punch that elevates these bites to gourmet status.
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Pepper and Salt: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors—always taste as you go!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepping Your Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Chop your onion and celery finely so they soften nicely in the oven. Set aside for later.
Mixing Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine stale bread cubes with dried cranberries, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is evenly coated; this will be the flavorful base for your stuffing balls.
Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in chicken broth slowly while mixing until you achieve a moist consistency—don’t drown it! Incorporate eggs into the mixture for binding purposes; your hands work best here!
Create Stuffing Balls: Using your hands, form small balls (about golf ball size) from the mixture. Place them on a greased baking sheet with space in between each one—give them room to grow!
Baking Time: Pop those beautiful balls into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant. The smell should drive everyone wild with anticipation!
Savor and Serve: Once baked, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re delightful on their own or pair perfectly with gravy or cranberry sauce—get ready for compliments!
Now that you’ve mastered these Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, gather your loved ones around the table! Enjoy every moment filled with laughter and satisfaction as you dig into these flavorful bites together! Thanksgiving Deviled Eggs. Jalapeno Popper Meatloaf.
You Must Know
- Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a game-changer
- They combine savory turkey with sweet cranberries, creating a flavor explosion
- These bite-sized delights can steal the show at any holiday gathering, turning even the pickiest eaters into stuffing enthusiasts
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and celery, then mix in your turkey and seasonings before adding cranberries. This ensures all flavors meld beautifully while keeping the stuffing moist.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cranberries for raisins or add chopped nuts for crunch. Experimenting with spices like sage or thyme can elevate your stuffing balls even further.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use day-old bread for better texture; it absorbs moisture perfectly without getting soggy
- Don’t skip chilling your mixture before forming balls; it helps them hold their shape during cooking
- Lastly, taste your mixture before baking to adjust seasoning as needed!
Thanksgiving is my favorite time of year, especially when I hear my family rave about these stuffing balls! I still remember my cousin sneaking into the kitchen just to snag one before dinner; it was a hit!
FAQ
What is the best bread for stuffing balls?
Use day-old bread or stale baguette for optimal texture and flavor absorption.
Can I make Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time?
For more inspiration, check out this creamy Thanksgiving mashed potatoes recipe.
Absolutely! Prepare them a day prior and bake just before serving.
What should I serve with these stuffing balls?
Pair them with roasted turkey or a festive salad for a complete meal experience.
Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a festive treat that combines the savory goodness of ground turkey with sweet, tart cranberries. Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these flavorful bites are sure to impress your guests at any holiday gathering. Easy to prepare, they can be enjoyed as an appetizer or side dish, making them a versatile addition to your Thanksgiving feast.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 3 cups stale bread cubes
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 2 tsp poultry seasoning
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Finely chop the onion and celery; set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix stale bread cubes, cranberries, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add chicken broth while mixing until moist but not soggy.
- Incorporate eggs into the mixture using your hands for optimal binding.
- Form small balls (about golf ball size) and place them on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
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