Turkey Stuffing Balls: 7 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy

Name: Turkey Stuffing Balls: 7 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 1 cup bread crumbs; 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon sage; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 eggs; 1/4 cup chicken broth

📊

Difficulty Easy

Recipe by

Mia

124 Views • 6 min read

Turkey Stuffing Balls: 7 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite festive treat: Turkey stuffing balls! These little bites of joy are not just for Thanksgiving; they’re perfect for any gathering, game day, or even just a cozy night in. Trust me, once you taste these, you’ll want to make them a regular part of your menu!

I remember the first time I made them; the aroma filled my kitchen, and my family couldn’t resist sneaking bites before they were even done baking! The combination of ground turkey, herbs, and spices creates a savory explosion of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Plus, they’re so versatile! You can serve them on their own, dunk them in your favorite dipping sauce, or pop them on a platter alongside other appetizers. I can’t wait for you to try making these at home!

Ingredients List

1 pound ground turkey
1 cup bread crumbs
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
1 teaspoon sage
1 teaspoon thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 eggs
1/4 cup chicken broth

How to Prepare Turkey Stuffing Balls

Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your turkey stuffing balls cook evenly and get that beautiful golden-brown color we all love. I usually give my oven a good 10-15 minutes to heat up while I prepare the ingredients. Trust me, this little patience pays off!

Mixing Ingredients

Now, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, finely chopped onion, and celery. Add in the sage, thyme, salt, and pepper—these spices are what make the flavors pop! I like to use my hands for this part; it’s the best way to really get everything mixed together evenly. Once those dry ingredients are well combined, crack in the eggs and pour in the chicken broth. Mix it all together until everything is just combined. Don’t overdo it; you want the mixture to be cohesive but not mushy!

Shaping the Balls

Time to get our hands a little messy! With your mixture ready, take a heaping tablespoon (or a small ice cream scoop) and form the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. I like to wet my hands with a little water to keep the mixture from sticking too much. It’s all about consistency here; you want them to be tight but not packed too hard. This will help them hold their shape while baking!

Baking the Turkey Stuffing Balls

Place your turkey balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they’re spaced out a bit so they can cook evenly. Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a beautiful golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly! Let them cool slightly before serving—if you can resist the temptation to dive right in!

Nutritional Information

Just a quick note before we dive into the numbers: nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so take these figures as a general guideline rather than absolute certainties. That said, here’s what you can expect per serving (which is about 4 turkey stuffing balls):

Calories: 200
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 70mg

These little bites are low in fat and packed with protein, making them a fantastic appetizer that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Enjoy guilt-free snacking!

Tips for Success

To make sure your Turkey stuffing balls are the best they can be, here are a few handy tips! First off, using fresh herbs instead of dried can elevate the flavor to a whole new level—trust me, it makes a difference! Also, don’t be shy with your seasoning; taste the mixture before shaping the balls to ensure it’s just right for you. If you want a little crunch, consider adding some finely chopped nuts or breadcrumbs to the mixture. Another pro tip: let the formed balls chill in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their shape better while they cook. Lastly, keep an eye on them during baking; ovens can vary, and you want that perfect golden brown without overcooking. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!

Variations

There are so many fun ways to mix things up with your Turkey stuffing balls! If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the sage and thyme for some fresh rosemary or even a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile. You could also throw in some grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist that’ll make your taste buds dance! For a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix. Feeling festive? Why not fold in some dried cranberries or chopped apples for a touch of sweetness? The possibilities are endless! Just remember to keep the proportions balanced, and have fun experimenting with your favorite flavors!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Turkey stuffing balls, the options are endless! For a delightful touch, pair them with a zesty dipping sauce like tangy cranberry sauce or a creamy garlic aioli. They also shine alongside a warm bowl of gravy for that comforting, homestyle feel. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving them on a platter with other festive appetizers like stuffed mushrooms or mini quiches to create a delightful spread. You might even toss in some fresh veggies with a ranch dip to balance the flavors. Trust me, these little bites will be the star of your appetizer table!

FAQ Section

Can I make Turkey stuffing balls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep your Turkey stuffing balls in advance. Just form the balls and then pop them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. If you want to make them even earlier, you can freeze them! Just freeze the formed balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once they’re solid. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can definitely switch things up! Ground chicken, pork, or even beef work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that different meats may require slight adjustments in seasoning or cooking time, so feel free to taste and tweak as you go. The beauty of Turkey stuffing balls is their versatility, so don’t hesitate to experiment!

What can I serve with Turkey stuffing balls?

Oh, the options are endless! For a classic touch, serve your Turkey stuffing balls with warm gravy or a tangy cranberry sauce for dipping. They also pair beautifully with a creamy ranch or garlic aioli. For a more festive vibe, consider a platter of assorted appetizers, including veggie sticks, cheese, and olives. This way, your Turkey stuffing balls will shine among a delightful array of flavors!

What do you think?

Share your thoughts, tips, or variations on this recipe!

Turkey Stuffing Balls: 7 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy

Mia

Ingredients List