Introduction
As the holiday season rolls around, the scent of roasted turkey and savory stuffing wafts through the air, evoking a sense of warmth and family togetherness. This year, elevate your festive spread with Turkey Stuffing Balls that combine the richness of turkey with the tangy sweetness of cranberry.
These delectable bites are not only perfect for holiday feasts but also make for a fantastic appetizer or side dish for any gathering. The addition of gravy mix enhances the flavor, making each bite a delightful explosion of taste.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
Ground turkey serves as the base for these stuffing balls, providing lean protein and a subtle flavor that pairs beautifully with seasonings. - 2 cups stuffing mix
Stuffing mix provides texture and bulk, allowing the balls to hold their shape while soaking up the flavors of herbs and gravy. - 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
Chopped dried cranberries add a burst of sweetness and a lovely chewiness, balancing the savory notes of the turkey and herbs. - 1/2 cup chicken broth
Chicken broth keeps the stuffing moist and enhances the overall flavor, ensuring the balls are juicy and not dry. - 1 teaspoon onion powder
Onion powder enriches the flavor profile without the texture of fresh onions, complementing the ground turkey. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic powder adds depth and savoriness, enhancing the overall taste of the stuffing balls. - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Dried thyme infuses a warm, earthy aroma that is quintessential for stuffing, bringing comfort and familiarity to the dish. - 1 egg
The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold the ingredients together while adding moisture. - 1/4 cup gravy mix
Gravy mix introduces a rich flavor profile, ensuring the stuffing balls have a savory and hearty taste that resonates with traditional holiday fare.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating the oven is crucial for ensuring that your stuffing balls cook evenly. At the right temperature, they will brown beautifully on the outside while remaining moist on the inside.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, stuffing mix, chopped cranberries, chicken broth, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, and gravy mix.
Combining these ingredients in a large bowl allows you to effectively blend the flavors. Ensure the broth is not too hot, or it may cook the turkey prematurely.
Step 3: Add the egg to the mixture and mix until well combined.
Incorporating the egg thoroughly helps to bind all the ingredients together, producing a cohesive mixture that will hold its shape when formed into balls.
Step 4: Scoop out mixture with a tablespoon and shape into balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
Creating uniform balls ensures that they cook evenly and provides a consistent size for serving. Using a spoon helps to prevent your hands from getting too messy.
Step 5: Place the shaped balls on a greased baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
Spacing the balls allows for even cooking and browning. Crowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than baking, affecting the texture.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
Baking allows the stuffing balls to develop a crispy exterior while remaining tender on the inside. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Allowing the stuffing balls to cool slightly helps them firm up after baking, making them easier to transfer to a serving plate.
Cranberry Delight: A Sweet Twist
The inclusion of cranberries in these turkey stuffing balls not only adds visual appeal but also introduces a delightful burst of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory turkey. This unexpected flavor adds depth to the dish, making each bite a bit of a surprise. The cranberries also elevate the aesthetic, providing vibrant color that is sure to impress your guests.
Perfectly Seasoned Comfort
Seasoning is key to achieving a delicious outcome with your turkey stuffing balls. Onion powder, garlic powder, and thyme infuse the mixture with rich, aromatic flavors that evoke the essence of homemade comfort food. This careful balance of spices ensures that the stuffing balls are anything but bland, making them a standout on any holiday table.
Versatile Comfort Food
Another great aspect of turkey stuffing balls is their versatility. They can be enjoyed as a side dish, appetizer, or even as a main course when paired with a side salad or steamed vegetables. Additionally, these stuffing balls can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion, making them a reliable recipe suitable for both casual dinners and festive feasts.
FAQs
What if my mixture is too thick?
If the mixture is too thick to form into balls, add an extra tablespoon of chicken broth at a time until you reach a more manageable consistency.
What if the turkey stuffing balls turn out bland?
To enhance flavor, consider adding more salt or a splash of soy sauce to the mixture, or serve with a robust homemade gravy.
Can I use homemade stuffing instead of stuffing mix?
Yes, homemade stuffing can be used; just ensure it is well-seasoned and dry enough to hold shape, or adjust the liquid accordingly.
What is the best way to ensure even cooking?
Arrange the balls with enough space on the baking sheet; this allows hot air to circulate freely, promoting even cooking and browning.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries may be used, but they are tart, so consider adding a little sugar to the mixture to balance the flavor.
Why are my stuffing balls falling apart?
If your stuffing balls are falling apart, the mixture may be too dry or lacking in binding agents. A little more chicken broth or an extra egg can help.
Conclusion
Turkey Stuffing Balls with Cranberry & Gravy Mix are a heartwarming addition to any holiday table. Their unique flavor profile, balanced between sweet and savory, makes them a crowd favorite.
Whether served as an appetizer or a side dish, these savory bites are sure to bring everyone together for a memorable meal, filled with love and flavors that will be cherished for years to come.
Recipe Card
Easy Christmas Cake Traybake for Festive Sharing
Ingredients
- 250 g mixed dried fruits
- 200 g unsalted butter softened
- 150 g light brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 300 g self-raising flour
- 2 tsp mixed spice or pumpkin spice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 50 ml milk
- Icing sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a traybake tin
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition
- Sift in the self-raising flour and mixed spice, then fold in gently
- Stir in the milk and mixed dried fruits until just combined
- Pour the mixture into the prepared traybake tin and level the surface
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean
- Allow the cake to cool on a wire rack before dusting with icing sugar
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.