Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious, festive appetizer that brings together the savory flavors of ground turkey, the sweetness of cranberries, and the aromatic touch of garlic and fresh parsley. These little bites are perfect for the holiday season, whether served as an appetizer at a family gathering or alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal. Simple to make, these stuffing balls are sure to be a hit on any holiday table!
Ingredients
1 pound ground turkey
2 cups bread crumbs
1 cup cooked cranberries
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, lightly beaten (optional, for binding)
Instructions
Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground turkey, 2 cups of bread crumbs, 1 cup of cooked cranberries, 1 finely chopped onion, 2 minced cloves of garlic, and 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’d like to ensure the mixture binds together more easily, add 1 lightly beaten egg. This will help hold the stuffing balls together as they bake, but it’s optional if you prefer a lighter texture.
Form the Stuffing Balls: Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized portions using your hands. Place each formed ball onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there’s some space between each for even baking.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and cooked through. You can check doneness by using a meat thermometer—ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked and safe to eat.
Serve: Once baked, remove the stuffing balls from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm as a festive appetizer, or pair them with your favorite holiday sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or cranberry sauce for a full meal.
Prep Time and Cooking Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information
Calories: 190 kcal per serving
Servings: 6 servings
Tips and Notes
If you prefer a smoother texture, you can finely chop or pulse the cranberries in a food processor before adding them to the mixture. This will ensure that the cranberries are more evenly distributed throughout the stuffing balls.
For added flavor, you can sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of butter or olive oil before mixing them into the turkey. This step will bring out a deeper, sweeter flavor from the onion and garlic.
Make these stuffing balls ahead of time by preparing them and storing them in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven for a quick, easy meal.
Feel free to experiment with the seasonings. A pinch of dried thyme, rosemary, or sage would complement the cranberries and turkey beautifully for a more herbaceous flavor.
These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and flavorful. Their soft, moist texture combined with the subtle tang of cranberries makes them a festive favorite for any holiday meal. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a side dish, or part of a larger feast, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Thanks to their easy prep and quick bake time, these stuffing balls will save you time in the kitchen while still delivering big on flavor. They also store well in the fridge or freezer, making them a great option for meal prepping or for easy, last-minute holiday snacks. Give this recipe a try this season, and enjoy the wonderful combination of turkey and cranberries in a fun, bite-sized form!
Enjoy your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls! Don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family, as they’re sure to love this simple yet delicious dish. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. Happy cooking!