Turkey Stuffing Balls

Name: Turkey Stuffing Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 3 cups stuffing mix (store-bought or homemade); 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 stalks celery, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp dried sage; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Salt to taste; 1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing)

Isabella

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Enjoy a delicious twist on traditional stuffing with these Turkey Stuffing Balls! Packed with ground turkey, savory herbs, and seasoned bread crumbs, these bite-sized delights are perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering. Easy to prepare and serve, they provide a flavorful and satisfying option for your holiday menu.

Ingredients:

1 lb ground turkey

3 cups stuffing mix (store-bought or homemade)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 stalks celery, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup chicken broth

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1 tsp dried sage

1 tsp dried thyme

1/2 tsp black pepper

Salt to taste

1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing)

Directions:

Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your stuffing balls don’t stick and clean-up is a breeze.

Prepare the Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, stuffing mix, chopped onion, celery, garlic, chicken broth, parsley, sage, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. This mixture should be well-blended to ensure each bite is bursting with flavor.

Form the Balls:

Using your hands, form the mixture into golf ball-sized balls (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter). Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one to allow for even cooking.

Brush with Butter:

For a beautifully golden finish, brush the tops of each stuffing ball with melted butter. This step not only enhances flavor but also contributes to that irresistible crispy texture.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake the stuffing balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on top. You can check for doneness by cutting one open to ensure the turkey is no longer pink.

Serving Tips:

Presentation: Arrange the turkey stuffing balls on a decorative platter or serving tray. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or sage to add a pop of color.

Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces such as cranberry sauce, gravy, ranch dressing, or a zesty mustard for added flavor and variety.

Pairing: These stuffing balls pair well with traditional Thanksgiving sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or a fresh salad. Consider serving them as part of a festive buffet spread.

Warmth: For the best taste and texture, serve the stuffing balls warm. You can keep them warm in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting for gatherings.

Portion Control: Since these stuffing balls are bite-sized, they’re great for portion control. Offer them in individual servings or small baskets for easy grabbing.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: If you have leftover turkey stuffing balls, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked stuffing balls. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat refrigerated or frozen stuffing balls, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the balls on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes for refrigerated or 15-20 minutes if frozen, until heated through.

Avoiding Sogginess: When storing, make sure the stuffing balls are completely cool to avoid condensation, which can make them soggy. If necessary, re-crisp them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Avoid Overcrowding: When storing leftovers, avoid overcrowding the container, as this can lead to sogginess and uneven reheating.

Related Recipes:

Chicken Dressing Casserole

FAQs:

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground turkey?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey with other ground meats like chicken, beef, or pork. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, so adjust the seasoning as needed.

Can I make Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Form the balls just before baking. You can also freeze uncooked stuffing balls and bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I know when the stuffing balls are cooked through?

The stuffing balls should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside. You can check for doneness by cutting one in half; the turkey should no longer be pink, and the internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C).

What are some good dipping sauces to serve with Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Turkey Stuffing Balls pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Some popular options include cranberry sauce, gravy, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli. Feel free to experiment with different flavors to find your favorite combination!

Conclusion:

These Savory Turkey Stuffing Balls are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious, making them a fantastic addition to any holiday meal. With their perfect balance of flavors and satisfying texture, they will surely become a favorite in your festive repertoire. Try them this Thanksgiving and impress your guests with this delightful twist on a classic dish!