Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful and savory dish that combines ground turkey with flavorful stuffing ingredients. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer, these bite-sized treats are great for holiday gatherings or any family meal. They can be served with gravy or a cranberry sauce for added flavor. Enjoy a hearty and satisfying dish that everyone will love!

Ingredients List

For the Stuffing Balls:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 2 cups prepared stuffing mix (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or turkey broth)
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large egg

Optional Glaze:

• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) for garnish

Timing

Preparing Turkey Stuffing Balls takes about 15 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes for baking, totaling approximately 40-45 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped celery and onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, prepared stuffing mix, sautéed vegetables, chicken broth, parsley, garlic powder, thyme, sage, salt, pepper, and the egg. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Form the Balls

1. Shape Mixture: Using your hands, form the turkey mixture into balls about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a greased baking sheet or parchment-lined baking dish.

Step 4: Bake the Stuffing Balls

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the turkey is cooked through and the stuffing balls are golden brown.

Step 5: Optional Glaze

1. Brush with Butter: If desired, brush the tops of the stuffing balls with melted butter during the last 5 minutes of baking for added flavor and richness.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm with gravy or cranberry sauce.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Turkey Stuffing Balls (per ball, assuming 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	120
Protein	10g
Fat	6g
Carbohydrates	8g
Fiber	1g

Tips for Customization

• Stuffing Variations: Use different types of stuffing mix, such as cornbread or herb stuffing, for varied flavors.
• Add-ins: Consider adding dried cranberries, chopped nuts, or cooked sausage for additional texture and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for some heat.

Serving Suggestions

Turkey Stuffing Balls pair well with:

• Gravy for dipping.
• Cranberry sauce for a sweet contrast.
• A fresh salad for a complete meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix the turkey mixture; this can make the stuffing balls dense.
2. Underbaking: Ensure the stuffing balls are cooked through; use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. Skipping the Broth: Adding broth keeps the stuffing balls moist, so don’t skip this step!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Turkey Stuffing Balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

In about 45 minutes, you can create delicious Turkey Stuffing Balls that are perfect for any occasion. These savory bites are sure to be a hit with family and friends, making them a great addition to your meal rotation!

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffing balls in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Bake them just before serving.

Can I freeze the stuffing balls?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked stuffing balls. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I do if I have leftovers?

Store any leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Can I customize the recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite herbs, spices, or mix-ins to suit your taste.