Introduction
Cranberry turkey stuffing balls are a delicious and versatile dish that brings together the rich flavors of Thanksgiving in a bite-sized format. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a main course, these stuffing balls incorporate tender turkey, sweet dried cranberries, and aromatic herbs to create a mouthwatering experience for your taste buds. Made with simple ingredients, they are an excellent way to use up leftover turkey after a holiday feast, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Whether you serve them with creamy gravy or a drizzle of cranberry sauce, these stuffing balls are sure to impress family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients
2 cups of bread crumbs
1 cup of cooked turkey, shredded
1/2 cup of dried cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup of onion, finely diced
1/2 cup of celery, diced
1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup of chicken broth
1 teaspoon of dried thyme
1 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
1 large egg
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12-15 stuffing balls
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the oven
Begin your culinary journey by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the stuffing balls will bake evenly and develop that coveted golden crust. To make cleanup easier, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Prepare the stuffing mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread crumbs, shredded turkey, chopped dried cranberries, finely diced onion, diced celery, and freshly chopped parsley. Stir the ingredients together to ensure they are well-distributed, so every bite of stuffing ball is full of flavor and texture.
Add the thyme, salt, and black pepper for seasoning
Next, sprinkle in the dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. These seasonings enhance the overall flavor profile of the stuffing balls, adding a savory depth and aroma.
Add the liquid ingredients
Pour the chicken broth into the mixture, followed by cracking in the large egg. The egg acts as a binding agent, helping the mixture hold together when formed into balls. Stir the mixture thoroughly until everything is combined and moist. If it appears too dry, feel free to add a bit more chicken broth until you achieve the desired consistency.
Form the stuffing balls
Using your hands, scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the stuffing mixture at a time. Roll the mixture into a ball shape, ensuring that it is compact enough to hold together during baking. Place each formed ball onto the prepared baking sheet, giving them a little space to expand as they cook.
Bake the stuffing balls
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake the stuffing balls for about 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake, and look for a golden brown color that signifies they are cooked through and ready to be enjoyed.
Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the stuffing balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They can be served warm as a side dish or appetizer. Accompany them with turkey gravy, homemade cranberry sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce to enhance their flavor.
Notes
Feel free to customize your stuffing balls. You can incorporate additional ingredients such as chopped nuts, cheese, or other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added texture and flavor. Make sure that any additional ingredients are finely chopped to maintain the consistency of the balls.
Cook techniques
The key cooking technique involved in making cranberry turkey stuffing balls is proper mixing. Ensuring that all ingredients are mixed uniformly will enhance the overall taste and texture. Additionally, rolling the stuffing into balls requires just the right amount of pressure to prevent crumbling, while still allowing the ingredients to stay fluffy and light. When baking, monitor the cooking time precisely, as some ovens may slow down the process or cook faster. Always check for doneness by looking for that rich golden color.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought stuffing mix instead of bread crumbs?
Yes, you can substitute store-bought stuffing mix for bread crumbs. This can help save time, as it typically has added seasonings that enhance flavor. Just be sure to adjust the amount of added salt and other seasonings accordingly.
Can I freeze the stuffing balls?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the cooked stuffing balls to cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed throughout.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven for optimal texture, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make these stuffing balls gluten-free by using gluten-free bread crumbs and checking your other ingredients to ensure they do not contain gluten.
Conclusion
Cranberry turkey stuffing balls are not just a delectable side dish; they are a celebration of flavors and textures that come together in a delightful package. Whether served during the holiday season or as a family favorite anytime of year, these stuffed bites make a memorable addition to your dining table. Easy to prepare and versatile in nature, they can also be a buzzworthy party appetizer or a comforting addition to a casual get-together. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating this dish, and delight in the smiles it brings to your loved ones’ faces.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Stuffing Balls with Sausage and Sage
For a twist on the classic stuffing ball, consider incorporating cooked sausage and fresh sage into your mixture for a more robust flavor profile.
Vegetarian Stuffing Balls
Replace the turkey with roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and almond meal for a vegetarian option that is equally satisfying and packed with protein.
Cheesy Stuffing Balls
Add shredded cheese to your stuffing mixture for an indulgent twist. A mix of cheddar, mozzarella, or even feta can add a delicious melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Spiced Apple Stuffing Balls
Combine dried cranberries with diced apples and cinnamon for a sweet and spiced variation that pairs beautifully with pork or chicken dishes.
Spicy Southwest Stuffing Balls
Add black beans, corn, diced jalapeños, and cumin to the mixture for a kick of flavor and a Southwest flair that works as a scrumptious appetizer.