Why You’ll Like It

These stuffing balls combine the best elements of your holiday meals—succulent turkey, tangy cranberries, and aromatic herbs—all conveniently packed into an easy-to-eat form. They’re versatile enough to serve as appetizers, side dishes, or even a main course. Plus, they offer a resourceful way to utilize your leftovers while adding a creative flair to your holiday feast!

The Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups of bread crumbs
• 1 cup of cooked turkey, shredded
• 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, chopped
• 1/2 cup of onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup of celery, diced
• 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup of chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 large egg

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). To ensure your stuffing balls don’t stick, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing.
2. Prepare the stuffing mixture: In a spacious bowl, combine the bread crumbs, shredded turkey, chopped cranberries, onion, celery, and parsley. It’s time to season the mixture with thyme, salt, and black pepper for that delicious flavor.
3. Add the liquid ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth and introduce the egg. Stir the mixture thoroughly until everything is moist and well combined. If the mixture appears too dry, feel free to add a bit more broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
4. Form the stuffing balls: Using about 2 tablespoons of the mixture at a time, roll it into balls. Place each crafted ball onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between them.
5. Bake: Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the stuffing balls for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
6. Serve: Enjoy your stuffing balls warm as a side dish or appetizer. Pair them with gravy or a side of cranberry sauce for extra flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: These stuffing balls make a fantastic addition to your holiday meal, whether as a side dish or an appetizer. Dipping them in gravy or cranberry sauce takes them to another level!
• Storage: If you happen to have any leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to savor them again, a quick reheat in the oven will have them tasting fresh.

Helpful Notes

• You can prepare these stuffing balls in advance and freeze them. When it’s time to bake, you can do so straight from the freezer, adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, why not throw in some chopped nuts or diced apples for an unexpected sweet crunch?
• For those who might prefer a meat-free option, substituting the turkey with sautéed mushrooms or chestnuts can create a delightful vegetarian version.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
   Certainly! Just ensure to chop them finely and reduce the quantity slightly, as fresh cranberries contain more moisture than their dried counterparts.
2. Can I make these stuffing balls gluten-free?
   Yes! Simply swap out regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
3. Can I use leftover stuffing for this recipe?
   Absolutely! If you have leftover stuffing from your holiday meal, mix it with the shredded turkey and cranberries, form them into balls, and bake for a speedy and delicious dish.
4. How do I prevent the balls from falling apart?
   Ensuring your mixture is moist enough is key; adding the right amount of broth will help. The egg acts as a binding agent, so make sure it is well mixed in for the best results.
5. Can I add cheese to the stuffing balls?
   Yes! For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding shredded cheese such as cheddar or parmesan to the mixture before forming the balls.