A Cozy Holiday Favorite in Every Bite Recipe

If you want to bring something truly special to your holiday table, these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are an absolute must-try. Bursting with festive flavors and a perfect balance of savory and sweet, this dish is literally A Cozy Holiday Favorite in Every Bite. Imagine tender turkey, tart cranberries, and the comforting, familiar taste of seasoned stuffing all rolled into crispy golden spheres that melt in your mouth. They are the perfect combination of texture and taste to make your celebrations warm and memorable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect harmony of flavors and textures that make this dish shine. From the tender turkey to the sweet cranberries and the savory stuffing mix, every component adds a special touch.

• 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped: The star protein, offering moistness and hearty flavor.
• 1 box (6 oz) seasoned stuffing mix: Provides the savory, herb-infused base.
• 1 cup chicken or turkey broth: Moisturizes the stuffing and adds deeper poultry flavor.
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries: Adds a tart, fruity contrast for balance and festive color.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped celery: Offers a subtle crunch and fresh earthiness.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Used for sautéing veggies, lending richness.
• 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder, keeping the balls intact and moist.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance all flavors.
• Optional: fresh parsley or chives for garnish: Adds vibrant color and fresh aroma.
• Optional: turkey or chicken gravy for serving: For that luscious finishing touch.

How to Make A Cozy Holiday Favorite in Every Bite

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple prep sets the stage for perfectly crispy stuffing balls that won’t stick and will cook evenly with a golden crust.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, then add your finely chopped onions and celery. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. This step adds a mellow sweetness and a delicate crunch that brightens the whole dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Stuffing Mix

Follow the package directions for the stuffing mix, but swap the water for chicken or turkey broth. This small upgrade infuses the stuffing with rich poultry goodness, making it deliciously moist and flavorful. Set it aside to cool slightly so it’s ready to mix without cooking the eggs too early.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared stuffing, shredded turkey, sautéed veggies, dried cranberries, and beaten eggs. Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything until it’s well blended — your hands work best here to really incorporate all those wonderful flavors.

Step 5: Form the Stuffing Balls

Using your hands or a scoop, shape the mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball. This size ensures each bite is perfectly balanced with crispy edges and a soft, savory center.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the balls on your prepared baking sheet with some space between each one. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust and become crispy on the outside. This contrast in texture is key to making this dish A Cozy Holiday Favorite in Every Bite.

Step 7: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Once baked, serve these delightful stuffing balls while they’re warm and inviting. They’re fantastic on their own or paired with gravy for an added layer of richness and moisture.

How to Serve A Cozy Holiday Favorite in Every Bite

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like finely chopped parsley or chives brighten up the appearance and add a subtle fresh note that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the stuffing balls. Sprinkle them just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

These stuffing balls go wonderfully alongside classic holiday sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. Their savory, slightly sweet profile makes them versatile enough to pair with almost any festive spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist at your holiday gathering, try serving these cranberry turkey stuffing balls on a platter with small bowls of turkey gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping. You can even skewer them with toothpicks for a charming appetizer presentation that invites everyone to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover stuffing balls should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep well for up to 3 days, retaining much of their flavor and texture, which makes for convenient next-day treats or quick snacks.

Freezing

These balls freeze beautifully! Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing their charm, making them a wonderful make-ahead holiday option.

Reheating

To reheat, place the stuffing balls on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again on the outside. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that crisp exterior, though it works in a pinch for a quick warm-up.

FAQs

Can I use leftover turkey for this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey from a previous meal. Just be sure the turkey is nicely shredded or chopped for easy mixing and shaping.

What can I substitute if I don’t have dried cranberries?

If you don’t have dried cranberries, dried cherries or raisins can add a similar touch of sweetness and chewiness. They provide a lovely balance to the savory flavors just like cranberries.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

You can easily adapt this recipe by substituting the turkey with a plant-based protein or extra veggies, and using vegetable broth instead of chicken or turkey broth. The cranberries and seasoned stuffing still keep it flavorful and festive.

Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time before baking?

Yes! You can prepare and form the stuffing balls a few hours ahead, then store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes party day so much easier and stress-free.

How do I ensure the stuffing balls hold together well?

The eggs in the recipe act as a natural binder, and mixing everything well is key. If the mixture feels too loose, you can add a little extra stuffing mix to help it firm up before forming the balls.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly heartwarming about making and sharing Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls during the holidays. Not only do they capture the spirit of festive flavors perfectly, but they also bring a delightful texture and color to any table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience firsthand why it’s A Cozy Holiday Favorite in Every Bite. Trust me, once you do, these little bites of joy will become a beloved tradition in your home too.

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