Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls: Perfect for Parties and Leftovers

Looking for a creative way to use up your holiday leftovers? Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect solution! These bite-sized treats combine the savory flavors of turkey and stuffing with the sweet tang of dried cranberries, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or a comforting snack for cozy nights in.

What Are Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious and portable take on classic Thanksgiving and Christmas flavors. Made with prepared stuffing, cooked turkey, and dried cranberries, these golden-baked bites are easy to whip up and perfect for using up leftover holiday ingredients. Serve them with gravy or cranberry sauce for a dish that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: Uses just a few ingredients, many of which you may already have on hand.
• Perfect for Leftovers: A creative way to transform turkey and stuffing into something exciting.
• Great for Entertaining: Bite-sized and easy to serve, making them ideal for parties or potlucks.
• Customizable: Can be adapted for dietary preferences or available ingredients.

Ingredients

• 3 cups (720 ml) prepared stuffing (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup (140 g) cooked turkey, shredded or diced
• ½ cup (60 g) dried cranberries
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tbsp (8 g) fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup (60 ml) chicken or turkey broth (optional, for moisture)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Gravy or cranberry sauce for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Combine Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine stuffing, turkey, dried cranberries, egg, and parsley.
• Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
• If the mixture feels dry, gradually add broth, mixing until the mixture holds together when shaped.

3. Form the Balls

• Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball.
• Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.

4. Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and heated through.

5. Serve

• Serve warm with a side of gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
• Serve alongside mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a hearty dinner.
• Offer as an appetizer with a variety of dipping sauces at holiday parties.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Freezing Instructions

• Allow the stuffing balls to cool completely.
• Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 3 months.
• Reheat directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free stuffing and broth.
• Vegetarian: Swap the turkey for sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
• Cheesy Twist: Add shredded cheddar or Parmesan to the mixture.
• Herb Lovers: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries?
Yes, but they will add more tartness. Consider chopping them finely and reducing the amount slightly.

What can I use instead of parsley?
Fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage are excellent alternatives.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the stuffing balls and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious way to reinvent leftovers into something exciting and flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking for an easy weeknight snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out!

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