Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

© Original recipe by The Recipe Nest ©

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls: A Festive Holiday Appetizer 🦃✨🍇

1. Introduction

When it comes to hosting a memorable holiday party, every detail counts—especially the holiday appetizer menu. One delightful way to impress your guests is with these cranberry turkey stuffing balls. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any festive appetizer platter, combining tender, savory turkey with tangy cranberries and seasoned stuffing. Not only are they visually appealing, but they also pack a flavorful punch that will keep everyone coming back for more. In this article, we’ll walk you through an easy, step-by-step recipe for making cranberry turkey stuffing balls that are bound to be a highlight of your holiday celebration.

2. Ingredients for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 cup stuffing (prepared or homemade)
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 egg (for binding)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Olive oil (for baking and browning)
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Preparing the Turkey Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried cranberries, dried sage, salt, and black pepper. Add the egg and breadcrumbs, then mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. This mixture should be firm but pliable, allowing you to shape it into balls.

Forming the Stuffing Balls

Using your hands, portion out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture for each ball. Roll them between your palms to create uniform, bite-sized spheres. Place the formed balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Baking or Frying the Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

To bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush the balls with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. For a crispier exterior, you can also pan-fry the balls in a bit of olive oil over medium heat until evenly browned on all sides.

Serving Tips

Serve these holiday appetizer bites warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired. They pair beautifully with cranberry sauce or a tangy gravy for an extra festive touch. For added flavor, consider dipping sauces like honey mustard or a cranberry chutney.

4. Storage and Leftover Tips

If you have leftovers, store the cranberry turkey stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (180°C) oven for about 10 minutes until heated through. For quick snacking, these bites also reheat well in an air fryer, adding a crisp exterior back to the treats.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Holiday Party

Arrange the festive appetizer on a decorative platter alongside small bowls of cranberry sauce, creamy dips, or cheese assortment. These holiday appetizer bites are crowd-pleasers and make a beautiful addition to your appetizer table. For an extra touch, add some mini skewers or toothpicks for easy grabbing — check out the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer to help cook or reheat the bites effortlessly.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the mixture and shape the balls in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking or frying. This makes holiday prep much easier and stress-free.

Can I substitute the ground turkey with chicken or plant-based alternatives?

Absolutely! Chicken mince or plant-based ground meat substitutes work well, providing similar texture and flavor. For a vegetarian version, use a mixture of mashed beans and vegetables combined with the seasonings.

How long does it take to prepare and cook the cranberry turkey stuffing balls?

Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and cooking (baking or frying) takes an additional 20-25 minutes. Overall, expect around 40 minutes from start to finish.

7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect if you want a quick and healthy way to cook or reheat the stuffing balls with minimal oil and effort.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures even cooking and easy cleanup during the preparation process.
• KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer – Handy for mixing the ingredients smoothly.
• Deluxe 33-Piece Silicone Utensil Set – Useful for mixing, serving, and garnishing your holiday appetizers.

8. Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet
• Ultimate Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

9. Conclusion

These cranberry turkey stuffing bites are a delightful holiday appetizer that combines savory, sweet, and tart flavors into perfect festive appetizer bites. Easy to prepare and adaptable to various dietary preferences, they’re ideal for your next holiday gathering or holiday party snack. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a show-stopping dish that will wow your guests and elevate your seasonal menu. Happy cooking, and enjoy your festive feast!

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