Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls – Festive Holiday Appetizer

© Original Recipe By Whisk & Wander ©

⭐️ Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls – Festive Holiday Appetizer 🍁🦃✨

1. Introduction

Get ready to impress your guests at your next holiday party with these delightful cranberry turkey stuffing balls. This festive appetizer combines the savory flavors of turkey and stuffing with a burst of tart cranberry, making it the perfect holiday party finger food. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, these cranberry turkey stuffing bites are sure to become a new holiday classic. Whether you’re planning a family gathering or a festive potluck, this recipe offers a fun and delicious way to celebrate the season.

2. Ingredients for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

• 1 pound cooked turkey, shredded
• 2 cups prepared stuffing (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional, for extra tartness)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon ground sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large egg, beaten
• Cooking spray or olive oil for baking or air frying

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Preparing the filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, prepared stuffing, chopped cranberries, shredded cheese, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Add the beaten egg to help bind the mixture together.

Forming the stuffing balls

Using your hands, portion the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

Baking or air frying the appetizer

If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray the baking sheet lightly with cooking spray. Arrange the stuffing balls evenly spaced apart. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and heated through. For a quicker approach, you can use an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy and cooked.

Serving the turkey stuffing balls

Serve these holiday appetizer cranberries turkey stuffing balls warm, garnished with extra parsley or cranberry sauce for dipping. They make perfect festive appetizers to enjoy during holiday parties or in the lead-up to your main course.

4. Storage Tips

Leftover cranberry turkey stuffing mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until warmed through and crispy. To freeze, shape the balls and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. Reheat directly from frozen for a quick holiday snack.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Festive Appetizer

Pair these holiday party finger food with a tangy cranberry sauce or a dollop of sour cream to enhance the flavors. They go beautifully alongside a cheese platter, fresh spinach salad, or even as part of a larger holiday appetizer platter. For an extra touch, serve with a glass of sparkling cider or festive wine.

Looking for other delicious holiday appetizers? Check out our easy garlic parmesan chicken skewers for more festive finger foods.

6. FAQs about Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the stuffing balls a day in advance, store them in the refrigerator covered tightly, and bake or air fry just before serving for freshness.

Can I make these with ground turkey instead of shredded cooked turkey?

Absolutely. If using ground turkey, cook it thoroughly and let it cool before mixing with the other ingredients. Just ensure the mixture binds well before forming into balls.

What are suitable substitutions for the cheese?

You can leave out the cheese for a dairy-free option or substitute with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for added flavor.

How long does it take to prepare this holiday appetizer?

The entire process from mixing to baking takes about 40-45 minutes, making it a quick and easy addition to your festive appetizer lineup.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

To make your cranberry turkey stuffing balls perfect, consider using some handy kitchen tools. For example, a Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer will streamline the cooking process by baking or air frying with precision, ensuring your bites are crispy without extra oil. A quality T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set makes mixing and handling easy, while versatile tools like the EUHOMY Portable Rapid Ice Maker are perfect for keeping drinks chilled at your festive gathering.

8. Final Tips for the Perfect Holiday Appetizer

For best results, do not overmix the ingredients to keep the texture light and tender. Feel free to customize the cranberries or cheese based on your preference. Make sure to serve these holiday appetizers warm for optimal flavor and texture. These cranberry turkey stuffing bites will definitely add a festive touch to your celebration table.

9. Conclusion

In summary, cranberry turkey stuffing balls are an irresistibly delightful holiday appetizer that combines savory and tart flavors in an easy-to-make finger food. Perfect for any holiday party, they bring festive cheer and delicious taste to your celebration. Try this recipe for your next gathering and enjoy the compliments from your guests. Happy holidays and happy cooking!

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