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This cranberry turkey stuffing balls recipe transforms leftover turkey into a delicious appetizer or side dish that captures all the wonderful flavors of a holiday meal in convenient bite-sized portions. Each golden-brown ball delivers the perfect balance of savory and sweet with tender turkey, tart cranberries, and aromatic herbs.
I discovered this recipe when looking for creative ways to use Thanksgiving leftovers. My family now requests these stuffing balls year-round, and they've become our go-to appetizer for holiday parties when we want something festive but not fussy.
Ingredients
- Bread crumbs: Form the foundation giving these balls their satisfying texture. Use homemade for best flavor if possible
- Cooked turkey: Adds protein and savory depth. Dark meat works best for moisture and flavor
- Dried cranberries: Provide bursts of tartness and holiday color. Look for unsweetened varieties for balanced sweetness
- Onion and celery: Create the classic aromatic base. Dice them very finely for uniform texture
- Fresh parsley: Brightens the flavor profile with herbaceous notes. Flat-leaf Italian parsley has more flavor than curly
- Chicken broth: Moistens the mixture while adding savory richness. Use low-sodium to control salt levels
- Dried thyme: Complements poultry perfectly with its earthy warmth. Rub between fingers to release oils
- Egg: Acts as the binding agent keeping everything together. Use a large egg for proper cohesion
How To Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Prepare the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 190°C which ensures the stuffing balls cook evenly and develop a golden crust. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper which prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Combine dry ingredients:
- In a spacious mixing bowl combine bread crumbs, shredded turkey, chopped cranberries, diced onion, celery, and parsley. The varying textures create interest in each bite while the bread crumbs absorb flavors from the other ingredients.
- Add seasonings:
- Sprinkle dried thyme, salt, and black pepper over the mixture. Distribute these seasonings thoroughly throughout the bowl to ensure every stuffing ball has balanced flavor. The thyme particularly complements both the turkey and cranberries.
- Bind the mixture:
- Pour chicken broth into the bowl followed by adding the beaten egg. Mix everything together using clean hands until the mixture holds together when pressed. The mixture should be moist enough to form balls but not soggy.
- Form the balls:
- Take approximately 2 tablespoons of the mixture and gently roll between your palms to create uniform spheres. Place each stuffing ball on the prepared baking sheet leaving about an inch between them to allow for proper browning.
- Bake to perfection:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until the stuffing balls develop a beautiful golden exterior while remaining tender inside. The exterior should have a slight crispness while the interior stays moist.
- Serve and enjoy:
- Transfer the warm stuffing balls to a serving platter. These are delicious on their own but reach new heights when paired with turkey gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping.
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The dried cranberries are truly the star ingredient here. Their bright tartness cuts through the richness of the turkey and stuffing, creating that perfect holiday flavor balance. My grandmother always said cranberries were essential to any poultry dish, and this recipe proves her wisdom. These stuffing balls have become our family's way of extending the holiday feeling well past the big day itself.
Storage Tips
These cranberry turkey stuffing balls store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through. They actually develop even more flavor after a day in the refrigerator as the ingredients have time to meld together.
For longer storage, freeze the stuffing balls after they've cooled completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They'll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Creative Variations
The basic recipe is wonderfully adaptable to different flavor profiles. For a holiday twist, add 1/4 teaspoon of ground sage and 1/4 teaspoon of ground rosemary to enhance the traditional stuffing flavor. For something more adventurous, incorporate 2 tablespoons of orange zest which pairs beautifully with the cranberries.
You can also experiment with different bread types. Cornbread crumbs create a sweeter, more textured stuffing ball, while sourdough adds complexity. For those avoiding gluten, gluten free bread crumbs work perfectly well in this recipe with no other adjustments needed.
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Serving Suggestions
These versatile stuffing balls work in multiple settings. Serve them as part of a holiday buffet alongside sliced turkey and ham. They make wonderful appetizers when skewered with cocktail picks and served with a cranberry dipping sauce. For a casual family dinner, pair them with roasted vegetables and a simple green salad for a complete meal.
For an elegant presentation, arrange the stuffing balls on a bed of lightly dressed arugula and drizzle with a maple balsamic reduction. The peppery greens and sweet tangy dressing complement the savory stuffing balls beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries can be used, but since they are more tart and moist, you may need to chop them finely and adjust the amount of liquid in the mixture.
- → What can I substitute for chicken broth?
Vegetable broth or turkey stock are great substitutes for chicken broth. Water with a touch of seasoning can also work in a pinch.
- → Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and shape the balls, then refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Bake them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- → Are these stuffing balls gluten-free?
No, this recipe uses bread crumbs, which contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- → Can I freeze these stuffing balls?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked or cooked stuffing balls. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking or reheating.