🌟 Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls: A Festive Holiday Appetizer 🦃🍒✨
1. Introduction
Are you looking for an impressive and delicious holiday appetizer that perfectly combines juicy turkey with tart cranberries? These Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are the ultimate festive snack, ideal for elevating your seasonal starter platter. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this party appetizer promises to be a highlight at any holiday gathering. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a big celebration, this recipe easily fits into your holiday menu.
2. Ingredients for Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- 1 cup stuffing or bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls
Preparing the Mixture
Combine the ground turkey, chopped cranberries, stuffing crumbs, diced onion, chopped celery, dried sage, dried thyme, and beaten egg in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Forming the Balls
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into evenly-sized balls, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a prepared baking sheet or a plate lined with parchment paper.
Cooking the Balls
Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Carefully add the stuffing balls and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Alternatively, for a healthier option, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Serving the Appetizer
Once cooked, transfer the cranberry and turkey stuffing balls to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. These festive snacks are perfect served with a side of cranberry sauce or a dipping sauce of your choice.
4. Storage Tips for Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, these stuffing balls can be frozen for up to 1 month—simply reheat directly from frozen for a quick party snack.
5. Serving Suggestions for Your Festive Snack
Serve your Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls with a variety of dips such as creamy tomato bruschetta dip or a sweet cranberry sauce. For an extra festive touch, arrange them on a platter surrounded by fresh herbs, and offer small skewers or toothpicks for easy eating.
6. Frequently Asked Questions about Holiday Appetizers
Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture or form the balls a day in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator, and cook just before serving for optimal freshness.
Can I substitute the ground turkey with other proteins?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or plant-based meat alternatives can be used for a vegetarian or different protein option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How long does it take to prepare this festive snack?
The total prep and cooking time is approximately 40 minutes, making it perfect for quick holiday party preparations.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — Essential for quickly chopping celery and onions, saving you time in prep!
- KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer — Perfect for mixing the stuffing mixture evenly for juicy, well-blended stuffing balls.
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker — Use for keeping the stuffing balls warm during a party or event.
- Ninja Mega Kitchen Power System — Power through heavier ingredients like cranberries with ease.
8. Explore More Holiday Recipes
If you’re looking to expand your festive menu, check out these related recipes:
- Top 25 Thanksgiving Finger Foods for a Festive Feast
- Spooky Halloween Potluck Recipes
- Classic Cannoli Squares
9. Conclusion
These Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are an irresistibly festive party appetizer that captures the flavors of the holidays in every bite. Perfect for showcasing your culinary skills at any seasonal gathering, they’re quick to make, easy to serve, and sure to impress your guests. Add this delightful festive snack to your holiday menu for a memorable celebration, and enjoy the flavors of the season with every bite!
Print
Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing BallsFestive Holiday Appetizer
A savory and festive appetizer combining turkey, cranberries, and stuffing, formed into delicious bite-sized balls perfect for holiday parties.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20 balls
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 4 cups prepared stuffing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix shredded turkey, cranberries, stuffing, Parmesan, parsley, sage, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add beaten eggs and breadcrumbs; mix until well combined.
- Form mixture into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and heated through.
Notes
- You can prepare these balls a day ahead and bake just before serving.
- For extra flavor, top with a dollop of cranberry sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 85 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg