Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

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Bring a burst of flavor and festive charm to your holiday meal with these Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. Combining the classic herbs and crunchy pecans with the bright tartness of fresh cranberries, these bite-sized stuffing balls are an irresistible side dish perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly portable and easy-to-eat festive side

• Balances savory herbs with sweet, fresh cranberries

• Crunchy nuts add texture and depth

• Simple, quick prep with everyday ingredients

• Ideal for holiday entertaining or potlucks

Ingredients Breakdown

• Dried bread cubes (1 cup / 225g): The base for the stuffing, providing structure and absorbency.

• Chopped celery (1/2 cup / 60g): Adds fresh crunch and mild flavor.

• Chopped onion (1/4 cup / 30g): Adds savory sweetness and aroma.

• Fresh cranberries (1/2 cup / 115g): Provide tart bursts of flavor and festive color.

• Chopped pecans or walnuts (1/4 cup / 30g): Add crunchy texture and nutty richness.

• Chicken broth (1/4 cup / 60ml): Moistens the mixture for binding and flavor.

• Large egg (1, lightly beaten): Helps bind the ingredients and hold the balls together.

• Dried sage (1 tsp): Classic herb flavor essential in stuffing.

• Dried thyme (1/2 tsp): Adds earthy herbal notes.

• Salt (1/4 tsp) and black pepper (1/4 tsp): Season and enhance flavors.

• Melted butter (2 tbsp / 30g): Adds richness and helps moisten the stuffing.

Tips and Tricks

• Use slightly stale bread cubes for the best texture.

• If mixture feels too dry, add more chicken broth, one tablespoon at a time.

• For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.

• Fresh cranberries add a lovely pop, but dried cranberries can be used in a pinch.

• Toast nuts lightly before adding for extra flavor.

Variations and Customizations

• Add chopped fresh parsley or rosemary for extra herbaceous notes.

• Mix in sausage or bacon bits for a meatier version.

• Swap pecans with walnuts or hazelnuts based on preference.

• Add a touch of orange zest for a citrusy twist.

Pairing Suggestions

• Serve alongside roasted turkey or chicken.

• Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or cranberry sauce.

• Add to a festive appetizer platter with cheeses and dips.

Storage Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy again.

Popular Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and shape the balls, then refrigerate covered for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze stuffing balls?
Absolutely! Freeze unbaked balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to baking time.

What if I don’t have fresh cranberries?
Dried cranberries can be used but omit or reduce added sugar in your meal to balance sweetness.

Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: About 20 stuffing balls 1x

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Description

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls – A bite-sized holiday twist! Savory herbs, tart cranberries, crunchy nuts, and soft bread cubes baked into perfect little bites. Great as a side or appetizer—festive and flavorful

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup (225g) dried bread cubes

• 1/2 cup (60g) chopped celery

• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped onion

• 1/2 cup (115g) fresh cranberries

• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped pecans or walnuts

• 1/4 cup (60ml) chicken broth

• 1 large egg, lightly beaten

• 1 teaspoon dried sage

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons (30g) melted butter

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

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• Dried bread cubes

• Chopped celery

• Chopped onion

• Fresh cranberries

• Chopped pecans or walnuts

• Dried sage

• Dried thyme

• Salt and black pepper

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and melted butter. Pour over the bread mixture and gently toss to coat evenly. Add chicken broth gradually until the mixture is moist but holds its shape when formed.

Step 4: Form Stuffing Balls

Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately as a festive side dish alongside your turkey or main entrée.

Notes

These Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls add vibrant flavor, beautiful color, and easy serving to your holiday feast. They’re sure to become a new family favorite that guests ask for year after year.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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