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As the holiday season approaches, kitchens across the world come alive with the aromas of spices, roasted meats, and sweet treats. Food plays a pivotal role in these festive gatherings, serving as both sustenance and a means of connection among family and friends. Among the myriad of dishes that grace holiday tables, one standout recipe that perfectly embodies the spirit of the season is Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. This delightful dish offers a harmonious blend of savory turkey, the natural sweetness of cranberries, and an array of herbs and spices, making it an ideal side dish or appetizer for any holiday feast.

Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Get ready to impress your holiday guests with Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, a delicious blend of savory turkey, sweet cranberries, and aromatic herbs. These delightful bites are not only a healthier alternative to traditional stuffing but also a memorable addition to your festive spread. With a crispy exterior and tender interior, they offer the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Share the joy of cooking with loved ones and create lasting memories around the holiday table!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound ground turkey

2 cups stale bread, cut into small cubes

1 cup vegetable broth

1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped

1/2 cup celery, finely diced

1/2 cup onion, finely diced

1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, finely chopped (optional)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried sage

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 large egg, beaten

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up and to prevent sticking.

    Sauté the Vegetables: In a medium-sized skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is sizzling, add the diced onion and celery. Sauté these for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become tender and translucent. Remove the skillet from heat and set it aside to cool slightly.

      Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey with the stale bread cubes. Add the sautéed vegetables, finely chopped cranberries, and the optional chopped nuts. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, dried sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while mixing with your hands or a spoon until the mixture is moist but maintains its shape. Finally, add the beaten egg and mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

        Form the Balls: Using your hands, scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball shape. Place each formed ball on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process until all of the mixture has been shaped into balls.

          Bake: Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven. Bake the stuffing balls for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until they're golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

            Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the stuffing balls from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a bright and festive touch.

              Enjoy these delightful and festive cranberry turkey stuffing balls as a savory side dish or a tasty appetizer at your holiday gathering!

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 10-12 balls