Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls – Festive Holiday Appetizer

© Original Recipe By The Wonder Whisk ©

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls – Festive Holiday Appetizer 🎉🥧🦃

1. Introduction

Welcome to your new favorite Thanksgiving appetizer! These cranberry stuffing bites are perfect for impressing guests at any holiday gathering. Packed with savory turkey flavor and tart cranberries, these festive turkey snack balls are a delightful addition to your holiday menu. Easy to make and visually appealing, they serve as an enjoyable and tasty holiday appetizer that everyone will love.

2. Ingredients for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

• 1 pound cooked turkey, finely chopped or shredded
• 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 2 cups prepared stuffing (use your favorite recipe or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon dried sage or thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil or cooking spray for baking

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Festive Turkey Snack Balls

Preparing the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey, chopped cranberries, prepared stuffing, grated Parmesan, and egg. Mix everything thoroughly until well incorporated. Season with dried sage or thyme, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors.

Forming the Cranberry Stuffing Bites

Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into small, evenly-sized balls. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each.

Baking the Turkey Stuffing Balls

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray or brush the balls with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and heated through. For a crispy exterior, you can also air fry these using a compact 6-in-1 digital air fryer.

Cooling and Serving

Allow the cranberry turkey stuffing balls to cool for a few minutes before serving. They are perfect to serve warm or at room temperature. Pair with a tangy cranberry sauce or your favorite dipping sauce to enhance the festive flavors.

4. Storage Tips for Holiday Appetizer Success

If you have leftovers, store the cranberry stuffing bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. For fresh and crispy bites, reheat in an air fryer for 3-5 minutes.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Thanksgiving Appetizer

Arrange these cranberry stuffing bites on a festive platter garnished with fresh herbs and citrus slices. They pair beautifully with other holiday appetizers like cheese boards, deviled eggs, and roasted vegetables. For extra flavor, serve with a side of cranberry relish or a creamy herb dip.

Looking for more holiday ideas? Check out this delicious creamy parmesan spinach mushroom pasta for a hearty main dish after enjoying your holiday appetizers.

6. FAQs About Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls & Thanksgiving Appetizers

Can I prepare these cookie balls in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the balls and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours. Just bake them fresh before your party to ensure they are warm and crispy.

Can I make these with leftover cranberry sauce instead of dried cranberries?

While dried cranberries provide a better texture and sweetness, you can experiment with leftover cranberry sauce by mixing a small amount into the stuffing mixture and adjusting the seasonings accordingly.

Are these a suitable holiday appetizer for gluten-free or vegetarian diets?

This recipe contains bread stuffing and turkey, so it is not vegetarian or gluten-free. To make it vegetarian, substitute the turkey with cooked lentils or veggie crumbles and use gluten-free bread in your stuffing.

How long does it take to prepare these cranberry stuffing bites?

The entire process, from mixing to baking, takes approximately 40 minutes.

7. Kitchen Tools that You Might Need for This Recipe

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for quick, crispy reheating or baking these holiday bites, ensuring a perfectly cooked exterior every time.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Make your stuffing and turkey prep easier with durable, nonstick cookware.
• KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer – Effortlessly mix your stuffing ingredients using this versatile mixer.

8. Related Recipes and Inspiration

For a complete holiday feast, explore these other delightful recipes:

• Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
• Creamy Parmesan Spinach Pasta

9. Conclusion

These cranberry turkey stuffing balls are an ideal Thanksgiving appetizer that combines festive flavors with easy preparation. They are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your holiday gathering. Incorporate this recipe into your repertoire for a bright, flavorful, and memorable holiday experience. Happy cooking and happy holidays!

Print