Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect way to use up leftover turkey while bringing a delicious twist to your meal. These bite-sized morsels are wonderfully flavourful, with a delightful combination of turkey, stuffing, and sweet cranberry sauce. Ideal for a festive gathering or a cosy family dinner, they are sure to impress your guests and become a favourite dish!
What You’ll Need for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Gather your ingredients to create these scrumptious stuffing balls. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded (approximately 300g)
- 2 cups stuffing (prepared according to package instructions, about 160g)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (about 250g)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped (about 75g)
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped (about 75g)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (about 10g)
- 1 teaspoon sage (about 1g)
- 1 teaspoon thyme (about 1g)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (optional for binding)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating, about 100g)
Step-by-Step Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Making these delicious bites is simple! Follow these steps to create your own Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey, prepared stuffing, cranberry sauce, onion, celery, parsley, sage, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- If your mixture seems a bit too loose, you can add the beaten egg to help bind the ingredients together.
- Form small balls from the mixture, roughly the size of a golf ball.
- Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Place the balls on a lined baking sheet, ensuring there’s enough space between them to cook evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown and deliciously crisp.
- Serve warm and enjoy these delightful bites!
The Best Way to Serve It
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls make for a fantastic appetiser or snack. Serve them warm on a platter, perhaps garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of colour. They pair beautifully with a side of extra cranberry sauce or a creamy dip for added flavour. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad for a lovely lunch option!
Helpful Tricks for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Here are some expert tips and variations to help you tweak this recipe to your liking:
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the mixture the day before and chill it in the fridge. When you’re ready, simply shape the balls, coat them in breadcrumbs, and bake!
- Add Some Spice: For a kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mixture.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the turkey with a plant-based alternative or increase the quantity of stuffing and vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked stuffing balls. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of turkey?
If you don’t have turkey on hand, shredded chicken or even a meat alternative can work perfectly in this recipe.
Can I bake these without breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can skip the breadcrumbs. They will still be tasty, though a bit less crispy on the outside. Alternatively, you could use crushed crackers or ground nuts for a different texture.
These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are not only easy to make, but they are also a delightful and flavourful way to turn leftovers into something special. So why not give them a try? You might just discover your new favourite treat!