AMAZING CRANBERRY TURKEY STUFFING BALLS

Tired of the same old Thanksgiving leftovers? Transform your post-holiday fridge into a delightful experience with these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls – each bite a burst of savory and sweet deliciousness, packed with holiday cheer! Trust me, this is one recipe you’ll be making long after the last guest leaves.

What You’ll Need: The Ingredients

For the Stuffing Balls:

• Cooked Turkey: 2 cups, shredded or diced
• Prepared Stuffing: 4 cups (your favorite Homemade Stuffing Recipe works perfectly!), slightly dried out
• Cranberry Sauce: 1 cup (Cranberry Sauce Recipe or Cranberry Orange Sauce are both excellent choices!), chopped if chunky
• Egg: 1 large, beaten
• Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped
• Fresh Sage: 1 tablespoon, chopped (optional, but adds a wonderful flavor)
• Salt and Pepper: To taste

Optional Extras:

• Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: 1/2 cup, toasted (for added texture and nutty flavor)
• Diced Celery: 1/2 cup (for extra crunch)
• Diced Onion: 1/4 cup, sautéed (for deeper flavor)

For Serving (Optional):

• Turkey Gravy: For dipping
• Additional Cranberry Sauce: For serving

Let’s Get Started: Making the Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

First things first, make sure your turkey is shredded or diced into small, manageable pieces. If your stuffing is still quite moist, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it air dry for a bit. This will help the stuffing balls hold their shape better. And don’t forget to chop your fresh herbs – that parsley and sage (if you’re using it) are going to add a burst of freshness.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, gently combine the shredded turkey, prepared stuffing, and cranberry sauce. I usually use a fork or my hands (clean, of course!) to make sure everything is evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as you don’t want to turn the stuffing into a mush. This is where the magic of the Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls really starts to happen!

Step 3: Bind It All Together

Add the beaten egg to the mixture. The egg acts as a binder, helping the stuffing balls hold their shape during cooking. Stir in the fresh parsley and sage, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, so start with a little and adjust as needed.

Step 4: Form the Stuffing Balls

Now comes the fun part! Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, form the mixture into balls about 1 1/2 to 2 inches in diameter. Don’t pack them too tightly, or they might become dense. Place the formed stuffing balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents them from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. This recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas recipes!

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the stuffing balls for 15-20 minutes, or until they are heated through and golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven. You want them to be nicely browned on the outside and warm and moist on the inside.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Stuffing Balls

Dealing with Dry Stuffing

If your stuffing feels a little too dry, don’t worry! You can add a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or turkey gravy to moisten it up. Just be careful not to add too much, or the stuffing balls will be too wet and won’t hold their shape.

Making Ahead of Time

These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are great for making ahead of time! You can prepare them up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few minutes to the baking time to ensure they’re heated through.

Freezing for Later

Want to enjoy these little balls of holiday goodness even later? You can freeze them! Once they’re baked and cooled, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them individually. Once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When you’re ready to eat them, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave.

Add Some Crunch

For an extra layer of texture, consider adding some chopped pecans or walnuts to the stuffing mixture. Toasting them beforehand brings out their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch.

Spice It Up

If you like a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the stuffing mixture. It’ll add a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the cranberry sauce perfectly.

Variations to Try: Mix and Match Your Flavors

Cranberry Walnut Stuffing Balls

Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts to the stuffing mixture for a nutty and satisfying twist.

Spicy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the stuffing mixture for a little heat.

Cheesy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the stuffing mixture for a cheesy and delicious treat.

Thanksgiving Leftover Remix

Use this recipe as a guide and adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand! Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and even a little Christmas Cranberry Jam can be added to the mix.

Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Your Stuffing Balls

As an Appetizer

Serve the Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls as a festive appetizer at your next holiday gathering. Arrange them on a platter with a side of turkey gravy or extra cranberry sauce for dipping.

As a Side Dish

These stuffing balls make a delicious and unique side dish for your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. They’re a fun alternative to traditional stuffing and add a pop of flavor and color to your holiday table. These Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls: Bite-sized holiday perfection! These flavorful cranberry turkey stuffing balls elevate your feast. A unique twist on Thanksgiving and Christmas recipes.

As a Snack

Enjoy them as a quick and easy snack any time of day. They’re perfect for satisfying those holiday cravings between meals. These are much more fun than traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls!

With Gravy, of Course!

Don’t forget the gravy! These stuffing balls are amazing dipped in warm turkey gravy. It adds a richness and depth of flavor that takes them to the next level. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try dipping them in a little cranberry sauce too!

Perfect Partners: What to Serve with Your Stuffing Balls

These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls pair perfectly with a variety of dishes. Of course, they’re a natural fit alongside a Roast Turkey Recipe and all the traditional Thanksgiving fixings. But they’re also delicious with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and even a simple green salad.

Why You’ll Love These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are more than just a recipe; they’re a celebration of flavor, tradition, and holiday cheer. They’re easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for using up those Thanksgiving leftovers. Plus, they’re a fun and unique way to add a little something special to your holiday meal. So go ahead, give them a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed.