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As the holiday season approaches, many families gather around the table to enjoy traditional meals that have been passed down through generations. Among these cherished dishes, stuffing holds a special place, often serving as the flavorful companion to the star of the show, whether it be a roasted turkey or a hearty vegetarian main dish. Stuffing not only enhances the overall dining experience but also captures the essence of festive gatherings filled with warmth and joy.

Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Discover the perfect addition to your holiday feast with Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. A healthier twist on traditional stuffing, these delightful bites feature lean ground turkey, fresh cranberries, and whole grain bread, blending flavor and nutrition seamlessly. Aromatic vegetables and savory herbs further elevate this dish, making it a charming centerpiece for your festive table. Embrace family traditions and delight your guests with this wholesome recipe that captures the essence of holiday gatherings.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground turkey

2 cups stale whole grain bread cubes

1 cup fresh cranberries (or substitute with dried cranberries)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 celery stalks, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp dried sage

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 large egg, beaten

1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

Olive oil spray (for baking)

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

    Prepare the Bread: If you're using fresh bread, cut it into cubes and toast them in the oven for approximately 10 minutes, or until they're slightly golden and dry. Allow the bread cubes to cool completely before incorporating them into the mixture.

      Sauté Vegetables: In a medium-sized skillet, add a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion and celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they turn translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute, or until fragrant.

        Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, the sautéed vegetables, stale bread cubes, cranberries, dried thyme, dried sage, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Afterward, pour in the beaten egg and chicken broth. Use your hands to mix everything until well combined. The mixture should be moist enough to hold its shape; if it appears too dry, add a little extra broth until it reaches your desired consistency.

          Form the Balls: With clean hands, take a portion of the mixture and roll it into balls about 1.5 inches in diameter. Arrange these balls on the prepared baking sheet. You should yield approximately 20 stuffing balls.

            Bake: Lightly spray the tops of the stuffing balls with olive oil to help them achieve a beautiful golden-brown finish. Bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

              Serve: Once done, allow the stuffing balls to cool slightly on the tray before transferring them to a serving platter. These stuffing balls can be enjoyed warm as a delightful side dish or appetizer at your festive gatherings!

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 20

                  - Presentation Tips: Arrange the stuffing balls on a festive platter and garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for a pop of color. Serve with a side of cranberry sauce for dipping!