Savory Delights: Irresistible Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls for Your Holiday Table

Create festive magic with our Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls! Featuring savory turkey, tangy cranberries, and herbs, they're the holiday hit your table needs.
Savory Delights: Irresistible Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls for Your Holiday Table

As the leaves fall and the holidays approach, there's a comforting thought that crosses every food lover's mind: the desire to create dishes that warm the heart and satisfy every craving. Among the myriad of flavors that define the holiday season, cranberry and turkey have always held a special place. Combining these classic tastes into a finger-friendly appetizer, this recipe for Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls is an ode to tradition with a modern twist. Perfect for your festive gatherings, these delightful morsels will undoubtedly become a new family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped
• 3 cups stale bread, cubed
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup chicken or turkey broth
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• Olive oil for brushing

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   Start by ensuring all your ingredients are measured and ready to go. Chop the cooked turkey into small, fine pieces. Cube the stale bread if it's not pre-cubed, and chop your onions, celery, and garlic.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the onions, celery, and garlic, sautéing them until the onions are translucent and the mixture is fragrant, about 5 minutes.

3. Combine the Base:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubes of stale bread with the sautéed vegetables. Add in the finely chopped turkey. Toss until the bread is well-coated with the buttery vegetable mix.

4. Add the Herbs and Cranberries:
   Incorporate the dried cranberries, chopped parsley, sage, thyme, salt, pepper, and nutmeg into the mix. Ensure everything is evenly distributed for balanced flavor in each bite.

5. Bind the Mixture:
   Pour the beaten eggs over the mixture, followed by the chicken or turkey broth. Stir the ingredients together until they’re evenly moist. If the mixture is dry, you can add a little more broth, but take care not to make it soggy.

6. Shape the Stuffing Balls:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Take a generous tablespoon of the mixture and form it into a ball using your hands. Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all of the mixture is used, spacing each ball about an inch apart.

7. Bake to Perfection:
   Lightly brush the top of each stuffing ball with olive oil to help them crisp up. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.

8. Serve:
   Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Arrange these delightful bites on a platter as a warm, welcoming appetizer on your holiday table.

Conclusion:

These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are more than just a treat; they're a celebration of the flavors we cherish during the holiday season. Perfect for potlucks or family feasts, they offer a nostalgic journey through the comfort of turkey and the tart sweetness of cranberries, all nestled in a savory base. Make this recipe part of your holiday tradition – an easy-to-make dish that resonates with warmth and joy, delighting taste buds and spreading cheer. Enjoy the festivities, and happy cooking!