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As the holiday season approaches, homes across the country begin to fill with the enticing aromas of festive meals. One essential component of these gatherings is the stuffing, a dish that has become synonymous with warmth, comfort, and togetherness. Stuffing has evolved over the years from a simple mixture of bread and herbs to a versatile creation that can complement any holiday feast. Among the many variations, the Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls stand out for their unique blend of flavors and textures, making them an irresistible addition to your holiday table.

Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Bring joy to your holiday table with these Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls! Combining lean ground turkey and tart cranberries, these delicious bites are perfect as a side dish or festive appetizer. Their savory flavor, combined with a golden-brown crust, makes them visually appealing and a crowd favorite. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and versatile enough for any occasion. Discover how to make this flavorful addition to your holiday spread today!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound ground turkey

4 cups day-old bread, cubed (use a mix of sourdough and whole grain for flavor)

1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped (or dried cranberries)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup celery, diced

1 teaspoon dried sage

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

½ cup chicken broth (more if needed)

1 large egg, beaten

½ cup walnuts, chopped (optional)

Olive oil, for greasing

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil.

    Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and diced celery, sautéing for an additional 2-3 minutes.

      Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, cubed bread, chopped cranberries, sautéed onion and celery mixture, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and chopped walnuts (if using).

        Bind the Mixture: Pour in the chicken broth and add the beaten egg. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be moist but not overly wet; if it seems too dry, add a bit more chicken broth.

          Form the Balls: Using your hands, shape the mixture into balls, roughly the size of a golf ball (about 1.5 inches in diameter). Place the formed balls on the prepared baking sheet, allowing a little space between each.

            Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, turning them halfway through the baking time for even color.

              Serve Warm: Remove the stuffing balls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These can be enjoyed as a delightful side dish or a festive appetizer.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 50 minutes | 12 servings