Description
Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious and convenient way to transform Thanksgiving leftovers into a flavorful appetizer or side dish. With tender turkey, savory stuffing, tart dried cranberries, and a blend of herbs and spices, these bite-sized balls are baked to golden perfection and make a perfect warm snack or accompaniment to your holiday meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped
- 3 cups prepared stuffing (homemade or boxed)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup celery finely diced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Cooking spray or oil for baking
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the finely chopped cooked turkey, stuffing, dried cranberries, onion, celery, dried sage, garlic powder, and black pepper until well combined.
- Add Egg and Butter: Stir in the egg and melted butter. This helps bind the mixture so it holds its shape when baked.
- Form Balls: Use a cookie scoop or your hands to shape the mixture into golf ball-sized balls and place them spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Prepare for Baking: Lightly spray or brush the tops of the balls with cooking spray or melted butter to encourage browning and crispiness.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the balls are golden brown and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and optionally sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm alongside gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Perfect for using up Thanksgiving leftovers and minimizing food waste.
- Serve with gravy or cranberry sauce for added flavor and dipping options.
- You can freeze the unbaked balls; bake from frozen by adding 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
