Cranberry turkey stuffing balls have become my absolute go-to for transforming Thanksgiving leftovers into something truly magical. I remember one year, I had so much extra turkey and stuffing, and I was dreading just eating plain leftovers again. Then, inspiration struck! I mixed it all up with some tart dried cranberries and baked them into little bites of heaven. The aroma that filled my kitchen was incredible – warm, savory, with that hint of sweet-tart cranberry. These little morsels are so much more exciting than just a scoop of stuffing! They’re the perfect way to reimagine your holiday feast. Let’s get cooking these delicious turkey stuffing balls with cranberries!
Why You’ll Love These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Seriously, these little bites are a game-changer for your leftovers. You’ll wonder why you ever just ate plain stuffing!
- They’re an incredibly easy cranberry turkey stuffing balls recipe that uses up holiday staples.
- You get that perfect crispy outside with a moist, savory inside.
- The pop of tartness from the cranberries cuts through the richness beautifully.
- They’re perfect for holiday parties or just a special weeknight treat.
- These turkey stuffing balls with cranberries are way more exciting than straight stuffing!
- They make your kitchen smell absolutely amazing while baking.
- You can even make them ahead, which is a lifesaver during busy holidays.
- They’re a fantastic way to reduce food waste and create something delicious.
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Ingredients
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making delightful cranberry turkey stuffing balls. You’ll be amazed at how these humble components come together to create such a flavorful appetizer.
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded – This is the star, so use your favorite leftover roast turkey.
- 3 cups cooked stuffing – Any kind works, but a savory herb stuffing is classic for these turkey stuffing balls with cranberries.
- 1 cup dried cranberries – These add a wonderful sweet-tart burst that balances the savory flavors.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional) – For a touch of freshness and color.
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten – These act as the binder to hold your balls together.
- 1/2 cup chicken or turkey broth – Just enough to get the perfect moist consistency so your cranberry and turkey stuffing appetizers aren’t dry.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season!
- Oil spray or olive oil for baking – To get that irresistible golden-brown crispiness.
How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Making these delicious cranberry turkey stuffing balls is surprisingly simple, and the results are so worth it. You’ll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish in no time!
- Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). I like to line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, but you can also just grease it well.
- Step 2: Grab a large bowl and toss in your shredded turkey, cooked stuffing, and those lovely dried cranberries. If you’re using fresh parsley for a little extra brightness, add that now too. Give it a good pinch of salt and pepper.
- Step 3: Now, get your hands in there! Mix everything gently until it’s all combined. You want to make sure those flavors start mingling.
- Step 4: Pour in your lightly beaten eggs and then add the chicken or turkey broth, a little at a time. Mix until the stuffing mixture is nicely damp and holds together easily when you squeeze it. This is key to preventing dry turkey stuffing balls with cranberries.
- Step 5: Start rolling! Take about two tablespoons of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form roughly 2-inch balls. They should hold their shape nicely.
- Step 6: Arrange the formed balls on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they have a little space between them so they can crisp up evenly.
- Step 7: Lightly spray or drizzle the tops of the stuffing balls with oil. This helps them get that beautiful golden-brown color we’re after.
- Step 8: Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. You’ll start to smell that delicious savory aroma filling your kitchen.
- Step 9: Gently flip the balls over. This ensures they get crispy on all sides. Bake for another 10 minutes, or until they’re a lovely golden brown and delightfully crispy.
- Step 10: Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, but still delicious at room temperature. Enjoy these amazing cranberry and turkey stuffing appetizers!
Pro Tips for Oven Baked Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Want to make your cranberry turkey stuffing balls absolutely perfect? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. Follow these tips and you’ll be serving up the best turkey stuffing balls with cranberries!
- Don’t overmix the stuffing mixture; gently combine to keep the texture light.
- Ensure your mixture is moist enough to hold its shape but not soggy. If it’s too dry, add a splash more broth; if too wet, add a bit more stuffing or breadcrumbs.
- Letting the mixture chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before rolling can make it much easier to form consistent balls.
- Bake them on a rack set inside the baking sheet if you have one; this allows for better air circulation for crispier bottoms.
What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
The real secret to perfect cranberry turkey stuffing balls is achieving that delightful balance of flavors and textures. It’s all about getting the right moisture content in your mix so they bake up golden and crispy on the outside, while staying tender inside. The dried cranberries are crucial for that signature sweet-tart pop!
Can I make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and even roll the balls up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator on the baking sheet. When you’re ready to cook, just bake them as directed, adding a few extra minutes if they are very cold. For more tips on making ahead, check out our latest recipes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
A common pitfall is making the mix too dry, which leads to crumbly balls. Always test the consistency by squeezing a handful – it should hold together. Another mistake is overcrowding the baking sheet; give them space so they can crisp up properly. Overmixing can also lead to dense balls, so handle the mixture gently. For more information on food preparation, you can consult resources on food preparation techniques.
Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
These savory bites are incredibly versatile! They truly shine as festive cranberry and turkey stuffing appetizers, perfect for any holiday gathering. Imagine them piled high on a platter, just begging to be dipped.
For a more substantial side dish, serve these cranberry turkey stuffing balls alongside your main holiday roast. They’re a fantastic alternative to traditional stuffing, offering a delightful texture and flavor contrast. I love pairing them with a simple roasted vegetable medley or even some creamy mashed potatoes. They also make a surprisingly delicious cold snack straight from the fridge, though I admit they’re best served warm and crispy!
Nutrition Facts for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown for these delicious cranberry turkey stuffing balls per serving. Remember, these are approximations, and your actual values might vary slightly based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes. For more details on nutritional information, you can refer to the privacy policy which may contain related information.
- Calories: 245 calories
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Protein: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Don’t let any of these delicious cranberry turkey stuffing balls go to waste! Once they’ve cooled completely, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They make a fantastic quick snack or side dish later in the week. If you want to keep them even longer, these homemade cranberry turkey stuffing balls freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. This is perfect for making ahead for parties! You can learn more about our terms of use regarding food storage.
Reheating is super simple. For refrigerated balls, pop them back into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. If reheating from frozen, you can go straight into the oven at the same temperature, but they’ll need a bit longer, around 20-25 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that wonderful crispiness!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
What are cranberry turkey stuffing balls?
These are essentially delicious little appetizers or side dishes made from a mixture of cooked turkey, prepared stuffing, and dried cranberries, rolled into balls and then baked until golden and crispy. They’re a creative way to use up holiday leftovers and transform them into something new and exciting, like these savory cranberry turkey stuffing bites.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, you absolutely can! If you use fresh cranberries, they will provide a tangier flavor and a softer texture. You might want to chop them roughly first. Keep in mind they can release more moisture, so you may need to add a touch more stuffing or breadcrumbs to your mixture to ensure it holds together well for your cranberry turkey stuffing croquettes.
What’s the best way to ensure they are crispy?
To get that perfect crispy exterior on your oven baked cranberry turkey stuffing balls, make sure you don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give them space to breathe. Lightly oiling or spraying the outside before baking also helps achieve that golden-brown crunch. Baking them at the correct temperature, as outlined in the recipe, is key, and flipping them halfway through ensures even crispiness. For more on baking, you can explore GDPR related baking information.
Can I make these vegan?
You can adapt this easy cranberry turkey stuffing balls recipe for a vegan diet! Substitute the turkey with finely chopped mushrooms or plant-based ground “meat.” Use vegetable broth instead of chicken or turkey broth, and replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes). Ensure your stuffing mix is also vegan.
Variations of Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls You Can Try
Looking to switch things up or cater to different needs? These cranberry turkey stuffing balls are incredibly adaptable! Here are a few ideas to get creative with your turkey stuffing balls with cranberries.
- Air Fryer Method: For an extra-crispy bite with less oil, try making these in your air fryer! Arrange the balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, spray with oil, and cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. This is a fantastic way to get quick, delicious air fryer cranberry turkey stuffing balls.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the mixture for a little heat. This creates a wonderful contrast with the sweet cranberries and savory turkey, making for some exciting savory cranberry turkey stuffing bites.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Swap the turkey for finely chopped sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based ground alternative. Use vegetable broth and replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 mins) for a totally vegan dish. Ensure your stuffing mix is also vegan!
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Fold in about 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar or Gruyere cheese into the mixture before rolling. The cheese melts beautifully and adds another layer of richness to these holiday stuffing balls cranberry turkey appetizers.
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls: Magical Leftover Bites
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These cranberry turkey stuffing balls transform leftover turkey and stuffing into delicious, savory bites. They’re perfect as a holiday appetizer or a comforting side dish, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 3 cups cooked stuffing
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup chicken or turkey broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil spray or olive oil for baking
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it well.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey, cooked stuffing, dried cranberries, and parsley (if using). Add salt and pepper.
- Mix the ingredients with clean hands until combined.
- Pour in the beaten eggs and add the broth a little at a time, mixing until the mixture is damp but holds together when squeezed.
- Roll the mixture into approximately 2-inch balls.
- Place the stuffing balls on the prepared baking sheet.
- Lightly spray or drizzle the balls with oil.
- Bake for about 20 minutes.
- Flip the balls gently and bake for another 10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can use leftover roast chicken instead of turkey.
- Boxed stuffing mix can be used if preferred.
- Fresh cranberries can be used for a tangier flavor.
- Flax eggs can be substituted for vegan options.
- Vegetable broth or white wine can be used in a pinch for the broth.
- Chopped walnuts can be added for extra crunch.
- Chopped apples can be substituted for cranberries, but may result in a mushier texture.
- Adding sage sausage is a potential variation.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Frozen stuffing balls can be defrosted and crisped in the oven.
- Serve as appetizers with cranberry sauce or BBQ sauce, as a cold snack, or with gravy.
- Letting the mix chill before rolling can help the shapes hold better.
- If the mix is too wet, add more stuffing or breadcrumbs.
- If the mix is too dry, add a splash of broth or mayonnaise.
- Reheat baked stuffing balls in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Appetizers, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 245 calories
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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