Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful and savory twist on the traditional stuffing that’s often served alongside a holiday turkey. Packed with tender turkey meat, aromatic herbs, and a rich stuffing blend, these bite-sized treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or a delicious weeknight dinner. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these turkey stuffing balls can be made in advance, baked fresh, or even fried for an added crunch. Whether served as a side dish or a standalone appetizer, these stuffed morsels are sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients:

• For the Turkey Stuffing Balls:
  • 1 lb ground turkey (dark meat for more flavor)
  • 2 cups stale bread cubes (or pre-made stuffing mix)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (or turkey broth)
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon rosemary (fresh or dried)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
• Optional Add-ins:
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries or chopped apples for a sweet twist

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Stuffing Mix: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes with the chicken broth. Stir until the bread is moistened but not soggy. If you prefer a thicker stuffing, add more bread cubes. Let the bread absorb the liquid for about 5 minutes.
3. Cook the Aromatics: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant. If using celery, add it to the pan and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Mix the Meat and Seasonings: In the bowl with the bread mixture, add the ground turkey, sautéed onions and garlic, herbs (sage, thyme, rosemary), salt, pepper, and egg. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. If the mixture feels too dry, add more broth, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the texture is moist but firm.
5. Form the Stuffing Balls: Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the turkey-stuffing mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Repeat the process, placing each ball on the prepared baking sheet. You should get about 12-15 balls, depending on the size.
6. Bake: Place the turkey stuffing balls in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. If you want a crispier texture, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm. These turkey stuffing balls make an excellent addition to any holiday meal or can be enjoyed as a standalone snack!