Name: Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey: The star of the dish, ground turkey is a lean source of protein. It’s healthier than traditional pork or beef stuffing alternatives and absorbs the flavors of the other ingredients beautifully.; 2 cups seasoned bread crumbs: These provide the necessary texture and structure for the stuffing balls. Using seasoned bread crumbs adds depth of flavor, while homemade varieties can allow for gluten-free options.; 1 cup cranberries (fresh or dried): Cranberries add a tart sweetness that pairs perfectly with turkey. Fresh cranberries will offer a more robust flavor, while dried cranberries are usually sweeter and chewy.; 1/2 cup onion, chopped: Onions enhance the overall flavor profile, giving the stuffing balls a savory undertone.; 1/2 cup celery, chopped: Celery adds crunch and freshness, creating a balance with the softer ingredients.; 1/4 cup fresh parsley: This herb brings brightness and color to the dish, making it visually appealing.; 1 tsp dried thyme: Thyme is a classic herb often used in stuffing, contributing an earthy flavor.; 1 tsp salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.; 1/2 tsp black pepper: A subtle spice that enhances the overall taste.; 2 large eggs, beaten: Eggs act as a binding agent, helping to hold the stuffing balls together.; 1/4 cup chicken (or turkey) broth: This adds moisture and flavor, creating a moist stuffing ball without drying it out.

Description

Delight in Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, combining ground turkey, cranberries, and spices. Perfect as a festive appetizer or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground turkey: The star of the dish, ground turkey is a lean source of protein. It’s healthier than traditional pork or beef stuffing alternatives and absorbs the flavors of the other ingredients beautifully.
2 cups seasoned bread crumbs: These provide the necessary texture and structure for the stuffing balls. Using seasoned bread crumbs adds depth of flavor, while homemade varieties can allow for gluten-free options.
1 cup cranberries (fresh or dried): Cranberries add a tart sweetness that pairs perfectly with turkey. Fresh cranberries will offer a more robust flavor, while dried cranberries are usually sweeter and chewy.
1/2 cup onion, chopped: Onions enhance the overall flavor profile, giving the stuffing balls a savory undertone.
1/2 cup celery, chopped: Celery adds crunch and freshness, creating a balance with the softer ingredients.
1/4 cup fresh parsley: This herb brings brightness and color to the dish, making it visually appealing.
1 tsp dried thyme: Thyme is a classic herb often used in stuffing, contributing an earthy flavor.
1 tsp salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.
1/2 tsp black pepper: A subtle spice that enhances the overall taste.
2 large eggs, beaten: Eggs act as a binding agent, helping to hold the stuffing balls together.
1/4 cup chicken (or turkey) broth: This adds moisture and flavor, creating a moist stuffing ball without drying it out.

Instructions

Preheat your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the 1 lb ground turkey, 2 cups seasoned bread crumbs, 1 cup cranberries (either fresh or dried), 1/2 cup chopped onion, 1/2 cup chopped celery, 1/4 cup fresh parsley, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Add the Binding Agents: Stir in 2 large beaten eggs and 1/4 cup chicken (or turkey) broth until the mixture is evenly incorporated. This should form a slightly sticky mixture.
Shape the Mixture: With clean hands, take small portions of the mixture (about the size of a golf ball, or 1-1.5 inches in diameter) and roll them into balls. This step is where you can adjust the size based on preference.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the formed balls onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting one in half; it should be moist but not raw.