When the holiday season rolls around, it’s time to get creative with festive flavors. These Cranberry Turkey Parmesan Stuffing Balls bring together the best of the season: tender turkey, tangy cranberries, and savory stuffing, all in one delightful bite-sized ball. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a unique side dish for your holiday feast, this recipe is sure to wow your guests. Plus, these stuffing balls are easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time, making your holiday cooking stress-free. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Keto and Low-Carb Version
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or finely chopped
- 2 cups stuffing (use your favorite recipe or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, stuffing, dried cranberries, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the Balls
- Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into golf-ball-sized balls. Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one.
- Bake
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve
- Remove the stuffing balls from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Leftover Turkey: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover turkey from your holiday feast.
- Moisture Control: If the mixture seems too dry, add a bit more mayonnaise or even a splash of chicken broth to help bind the ingredients.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare these stuffing balls a day in advance. Simply refrigerate them before baking and pop them in the oven when ready to serve.
Recipe Variations
- Cheese Twist: Swap out the Parmesan for sharp cheddar or Gruyère for a different cheesy flavor.
- Add Nuts: Add some chopped pecans or walnuts to the mixture for a crunchy texture.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for a bit of heat.
Keto and Low-Carb Version
For a keto-friendly version, replace the stuffing with a low-carb bread stuffing or a mixture of almond flour and grated cheese to create a similar texture. Make sure to use unsweetened dried cranberries or omit them altogether to keep the carb count low.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken instead of turkey? A: Absolutely! Cooked chicken works just as well as turkey in this recipe, making it a versatile option year-round.
Q: Can I freeze these stuffing balls? A: Yes, you can freeze the stuffing balls before or after baking. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through.
Q: How do I keep the stuffing balls from falling apart? A: Make sure to mix the ingredients well so that the egg and mayonnaise can act as binders. If the mixture still seems too loose, add a bit more mayonnaise or a splash of broth.
These Cranberry Turkey Parmesan Stuffing Balls are a delightful addition to any holiday spread. With their savory, slightly sweet flavor and satisfying texture, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Whether you’re using up leftovers or making them fresh, these stuffing balls bring comfort and joy to any meal. Don’t forget to try the variations and keto version to suit your preferences. Enjoy your holiday cooking and happy feasting!