Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Instructions:

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 4 cups dried bread cubes (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

PREPARATION:

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried bread cubes, cranberries, celery, and onion. This dry mixture will give structure to the stuffing balls.
  • In a separate bowl, mix together the ground turkey, chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, sage, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 2: Combine and Form Balls

  • Pour the turkey mixture into the bread cube mixture. Use a spoon or your hands to combine everything until well mixed. The mixture should feel slightly moist but not overly wet—add more chicken broth if needed to reach the right consistency.
  • Shape the mixture into balls about 1 1/2 inches in diameter and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Bake

  • Bake the stuffing balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and golden brown. Be sure the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Step 4: Serve

  • Serve these delicious stuffing balls warm. They make an excellent side dish or appetizer that pairs well with holiday classics like mashed potatoes and gravy.

Notes

  • Avoid Over-Mixing: When combining the ingredients, be gentle to avoid overworking the mixture. Over-mixing can make the stuffing balls dense.
  • Use Quality Bread Cubes: Choose quality dried bread cubes for a great texture. If you’re making your own, consider using slightly stale bread for the best consistency.
  • Customizable Add-Ins: Feel free to add nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans to add a little crunch, or even a sprinkle of shredded cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their crispiness.

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