Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are truly the ultimate holiday side dish, and I’ve got the recipe that will make your guests rave! I remember my first Thanksgiving hosting, and I was so stressed about getting the stuffing *just right*. Then I discovered this gem, and it changed everything. The aroma of the savory turkey, sweet cranberries, and toasted bread filling my kitchen was pure magic. These little bites are so flavorful and perfectly moist, making them a crowd-pleaser every single time. Forget the soggy bread from the bottom of the roasting pan; this is the Best Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Recipe you’ll ever need. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing
There are so many reasons why this stuffing recipe is a winner for any holiday table. I’ve made countless versions over the years, and this one consistently gets rave reviews:
- It’s incredibly flavorful, combining savory turkey with tart cranberries and crunchy pecans.
- This Easy Cranberry Turkey Stuffing comes together quickly, saving you precious time on busy holiday days.
- You get that delicious, comforting taste of Homemade Cranberry Turkey Stuffing without all the fuss.
- The texture is spot-on – not too dry, not too mushy, just perfectly balanced.
- They’re versatile enough to be a standout side dish or a delightful appetizer.
- The vibrant colors make them visually appealing on any buffet table.
- It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover bread and create something truly special.
Ingredients for Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing
Gathering your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing ingredients is the first step to creating this holiday favorite. I always make sure to use day-old bread, as it holds up best in this stuffing. Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious recipe:
- 1 pound ground turkey – for a savory base
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion – about one medium onion, diced. For more on the benefits of onions, check out this article.
- 1 cup chopped celery – adds a nice aromatic base
- 1 cup chopped fresh cranberries – for that signature tartness
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans – provides a wonderful crunch
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley – for a burst of freshness
- 1 teaspoon dried sage – a classic stuffing herb
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – another essential savory herb
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups cubed day-old bread – I love using bread like sourdough or challah for the best texture
- 1 1/2 cups turkey broth – helps moisten everything
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten – act as a binder
- 1/2 cup melted butter – for richness and browning
How to Make Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing
Getting these stuffing balls ready is easier than you might think, and the aroma that fills your kitchen is just the best part! I always find the process so rewarding, especially knowing how much everyone will enjoy them.
- Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a baking sheet so nothing sticks.
- Step 2: Grab a large skillet and cook the ground turkey over medium heat. Keep stirring until it’s nicely browned. Drain off any excess fat; this helps keep the balls from getting greasy.
- Step 3: Now, add the chopped onion and celery to the skillet with the turkey. Sauté them until they start to soften, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You’ll smell them getting fragrant!
- Step 4: Stir in the fresh cranberries, pecans, parsley, sage, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Cook for another couple of minutes until everything is wonderfully fragrant. These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing instructions are crucial for developing those deep flavors.
- Step 5: In a big bowl, combine the cubed bread and the turkey mixture. I like to gently break up any clumps of bread.
- Step 6: In a separate bowl, whisk together the turkey broth and the lightly beaten eggs. This liquid mixture is key to binding everything together.
- Step 7: Pour the broth and egg mixture over the bread and turkey mixture. Add the melted butter, then gently toss everything together until the bread is evenly moistened. This is where the magic starts to happen for our Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing.
- Step 8: Start forming the mixture into about 1.5-inch balls. It helps to lightly wet your hands if the mixture is sticky. Place these formed balls onto your prepared baking sheet.
- Step 9: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and heated all the way through. The smell is incredible at this point, truly making it a Delicious Cranberry Turkey Stuffing. Learning how to make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing this way ensures a perfect bite every time.
Pro Tips for the Best Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing
I’ve made this stuffing countless times, and these little tricks really elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. Trust me, these tips will help you achieve the most Delicious Cranberry Turkey Stuffing possible!
- Don’t skip the day-old bread; it’s essential for the perfect texture.
- Taste and adjust seasonings *before* forming the balls. You want that Savory Cranberry Turkey Stuffing flavor balanced just right.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a tablespoon or two more of turkey broth.
- For an extra layer of flavor, toast the cubed bread lightly before mixing.
What’s the secret to perfect Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing?
The real secret lies in the balance of moisture and texture. Using day-old bread that’s not too dry or too soft, combined with the right amount of broth and the richness of butter, creates that perfect bite. It’s a technique similar to a Traditional Cranberry Turkey Stuffing. For a different take on holiday sides, consider this apple pie recipe.
Can I make Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture, form the balls, and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes holiday prep so much easier. Just bake them as directed when you’re ready to serve.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing?
The most common pitfall is making the stuffing too wet or too dry. To ensure a Moist Cranberry Turkey Stuffing, avoid over-mixing the bread mixture, which can make it dense. Also, be careful not to add too much extra liquid if it appears crumbly; a little more broth, a tablespoon at a time, is usually enough. For a simple yet delicious side, try our mediterranean chickpea salad.
Best Ways to Serve Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing
Now that you’ve mastered this recipe, you’re probably wondering about the best ways to serve these delightful little bites! I love how versatile these stuffing balls are. They are fantastic as a Thanksgiving or holiday appetizer on their own, but they also make an absolutely stellar side dish.
- Serve them warm alongside your roasted turkey or chicken. They soak up gravies beautifully!
- We often pair them with other classic holiday sides like mashed potatoes and green bean casserole.
- For a complete meal, consider serving them with a dollop of cranberry sauce or a side of turkey gravy.
When thinking about What to serve with Cranberry Turkey Stuffing, consider dishes that complement its savory-sweet profile. A simple roasted vegetable or a fresh salad works wonderfully. You might also enjoy our caprese salad.
Nutrition Facts for Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing
I always like to know what I’m putting into my body, especially during the holidays when we tend to indulge a bit more! These numbers are for a serving of two stuffing balls, which I find to be just the right amount.
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 5 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
- Sodium: 250 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of bread and turkey you choose. For more information on dietary guidelines, consult resources like the MyPlate website.
How to Store and Reheat Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to prep ahead! I often get asked about Cranberry Turkey Stuffing with make-ahead instructions, and I’m happy to share. Once the stuffing balls have baked and cooled completely, you can store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
When it’s time to reheat, I usually pop them back into a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through. This method keeps them nicely crisp on the outside. If they’re coming from frozen, you might need an extra 5-10 minutes. These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing with reheating tips ensure you get that perfect texture every time, making them just as good as when they were first baked. If you’re looking for other make-ahead holiday dishes, consider our easy cinnamon rolls.
Frequently Asked Questions About Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing
What is Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing?
This dish is essentially a flavorful mix of savory ground turkey, tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and aromatic herbs, all bound together with moistened bread cubes and baked into delightful, bite-sized balls. It’s a perfect twist on traditional stuffing, offering a wonderful balance of flavors and textures that makes it a standout favorite for any holiday gathering.
Is this a good Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is tailor-made for Thanksgiving. The combination of turkey, cranberries, and classic stuffing herbs like sage and thyme is a quintessential holiday flavor profile. Plus, making them into balls makes them easy to serve alongside the main turkey and other dishes, ensuring everyone gets a taste of this crowd-pleasing side.
Can I substitute the bread in this Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing?
Yes, you can definitely switch up the bread! While sourdough or challah are my favorites for their texture, you could also use brioche for a richer flavor, or even a good quality whole wheat bread for a slightly nuttier taste. Just ensure it’s day-old bread so it absorbs the moisture well without becoming mushy. If you’re looking for a Cranberry Turkey Stuffing with cornbread, you could even mix in some crumbled cornbread for a different flavor profile. For a different bread-based recipe, check out our bruschetta with beef tartare.
How do I store leftover Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing?
Leftovers are the best! Once cooled, store any remaining stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They reheat beautifully, making them a fantastic option for lunches or another round of holiday feasting. Just pop them in a warm oven or an air fryer to bring back that delicious crispiness.
Variations of Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing You Can Try
While this recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with different flavors and ingredients! If you’re looking to switch things up, here are a few ideas that I’ve tried and loved. These variations ensure there’s a perfect stuffing for everyone, no matter their preference.
- Cranberry Turkey Stuffing with sausage is a popular choice. Simply swap out half of the ground turkey for crumbled Italian or breakfast sausage for a richer, more savory flavor.
- For a touch of sweetness and a different kind of tartness, try Cranberry Turkey Stuffing with apples. Add about a cup of finely diced apple along with the cranberries and pecans.
- If you adore that nutty crunch, you can double up on the nuts! Cranberry Turkey Stuffing with pecans is already a winner, but adding walnuts or almonds can also be delicious.
- Want a more rustic flavor? Consider making Cranberry Turkey Stuffing with cornbread by substituting half of the bread cubes with crumbled cornbread. It adds a wonderful savory-sweet depth.
Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Bliss
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 stuffing balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful holiday appetizer or side dish. They combine savory turkey, tart cranberries, and seasoned bread for a flavorful bite. Easy to make, these stuffing balls are perfect for Thanksgiving and festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups cubed day-old bread (such as sourdough or challah)
- 1 1/2 cups turkey broth
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking sheet.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and celery to the skillet with the turkey. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped cranberries, pecans, parsley, sage, thyme, pepper, and salt. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread and the turkey mixture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the turkey broth and beaten eggs. Pour this mixture over the bread and turkey mixture.
- Add the melted butter and gently toss everything together until the bread is evenly moistened.
- Form the mixture into 1.5-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and heated through.
Notes
- You can make these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time and refrigerate them. Bake them just before serving.
- If you prefer a moist stuffing, use slightly less bread or a bit more broth.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
- Serve these Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls with gravy or cranberry sauce.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish / Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
Leave a Reply