Turkey stuffing Balls

Turkey stuffing balls are the perfect side dish for your Thanksgiving feast. Crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside, these stuffing balls take your traditional stuffing recipe to a whole new level. Whether you’re looking to serve a crowd or want to add a creative twist to your holiday spread, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Here’s how to make these delightful turkey stuffing balls.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 4 cups seasoned bread crumbs or stuffing mix
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped
• 1/2 cup chicken or turkey broth
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried sage
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Stuffing Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the seasoned bread crumbs or stuffing mix with the garlic powder, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine evenly.
2. Cook the Vegetables: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and celery, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Let the mixture cool slightly before adding it to the stuffing mixture.
3. Mix in the Ground Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the stuffing mixture. Pour in the chicken or turkey broth, and mix everything together until well combined. If you like, you can also add Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
4. Form the Stuffing Balls: Using your hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the stuffing balls for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve: Once the turkey stuffing balls are done, serve them hot as a side dish or as a fun alternative to traditional stuffing.

Tips for the Best Turkey Stuffing Balls:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffing balls the day before and store them in the refrigerator. Simply bake them right before serving.
• Add-ins: Feel free to get creative with the stuffing balls! You can add cranberries, pecans, or even cooked sausage for extra flavor.
• Crispier Texture: If you want a crispier texture, try frying the stuffing balls in a pan instead of baking them.

Why You’ll Love Turkey Stuffing Balls

• Versatile: Turkey stuffing balls can be served alongside turkey, mashed potatoes, or any of your other favorite Thanksgiving dishes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These stuffing balls are bite-sized and easy to serve, making them perfect for gatherings and parties.
• Customizable: You can modify the recipe to suit your taste by adjusting the seasonings or adding extras like herbs, cheese, or vegetables.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover turkey stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply bake them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through. For extra crispiness, you can reheat them in a skillet for a few minutes on each side.

Final Thoughts

Turkey stuffing balls are a flavorful and fun way to enjoy traditional stuffing with a twist. Whether you’re serving them for Thanksgiving dinner, a family gathering, or just as a simple side dish, these golden-brown balls are sure to impress. Try making them for your next holiday meal, and watch as they disappear from the table!

Serving Tips for Turkey Stuffing Balls:

1. Perfect Pairings: Turkey stuffing balls pair wonderfully with traditional Thanksgiving dishes like roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and green beans. They also go well with gravy, so don’t forget to serve them with a drizzle of your favorite turkey or chicken gravy for added flavor.
2. Make a Fun Appetizer: These stuffing balls are perfect for casual gatherings. Serve them as appetizers by placing them on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. You can also serve them with dipping sauces like a creamy ranch or tangy cranberry dipping sauce.
3. Garnish for Extra Flair: Consider garnishing the turkey stuffing balls with fresh herbs, such as parsley or rosemary, right before serving. This adds a pop of color and extra flavor to the dish.
4. Family-Style Serving: Arrange the stuffing balls in a large serving dish so everyone can help themselves. You can even add a festive touch by placing them on a decorative platter or adding some roasted vegetables around the balls for a visually appealing presentation.

Storage Tips for Turkey Stuffing Balls:

1. Refrigeration: Allow any leftover turkey stuffing balls to cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing: If you have leftovers or want to make a big batch in advance, turkey stuffing balls freeze well. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 2 months.
3. Reheating:
   • Oven: To reheat refrigerated turkey stuffing balls, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or until they are warmed through. If frozen, bake from frozen for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
   • Skillet: For a crispier exterior, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden and hot inside.
4. Avoid Microwaving: While it’s tempting to reheat stuffing balls in the microwave, doing so can result in a soggy texture. Reheating in the oven or on the stovetop will preserve their crispy, golden exterior.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your turkey stuffing balls as part of a memorable meal, and even make extra to savor throughout the week!

1. Can I make turkey stuffing balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can make turkey stuffing balls ahead of time. Prepare the stuffing mixture and form the balls, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them as directed. You can also freeze them before baking for up to 2 months, then bake them directly from frozen.

2. Can I substitute ground turkey with other meats?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or ground pork are great alternatives to ground turkey in this recipe. You can also use sausage for a richer flavor, or even a combination of different meats to suit your taste.

3. How do I ensure my turkey stuffing balls are crispy on the outside?

To achieve crispy turkey stuffing balls, make sure to bake them at the correct temperature (375°F) and allow them to cook long enough to turn golden brown. If you prefer extra crispiness, you can pan-fry them in a skillet with a little butter or oil instead of baking.

4. Can I add vegetables or other ingredients to the stuffing mixture?

Yes, you can customize the stuffing balls by adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots. You can also incorporate extras like cranberries, chopped apples, or nuts like pecans for additional flavor and texture. Just make sure not to add too much moisture to the mixture, or the stuffing balls may not hold together properly.

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