DELICIOUS TURKEY AND STUFFING

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Delicious Turkey and Stuffing Balls

Savory, juicy turkey meatballs packed with stuffing flavor—perfect for holidays or cozy dinners.

Introduction

Turkey and stuffing balls combine all the best flavors of a traditional roast dinner into one bite-sized delight. Tender ground turkey is blended with herby stuffing mix, fragrant aromatics, and savory seasonings, then baked or pan-fried to perfection. They’re ideal as a holiday side dish, a snack, or even the main course with a ladle of gravy on top. This recipe captures the essence of Thanksgiving or Christmas without the hours of roasting a whole bird.

Ingredients (Makes about 20 balls)

For the Turkey and Stuffing Balls

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey (preferably lean, but not extra lean for moisture)
  • 2 cups prepared stuffing (cooled; can be homemade or from a mix)
  • 1 large egg (for binding)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for richness)

For Serving (Optional)

  • Turkey or chicken gravy
  • Cranberry sauce
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare Stuffing

  1. If using boxed stuffing mix, prepare it according to package instructions, then allow to cool slightly.
  2. If making homemade stuffing, ensure it’s flavorful and slightly moist.

Step 2 – Make the Mixture

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, cooled stuffing, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. Use clean hands or a spoon to mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep them tender.

Step 3 – Form the Balls

  1. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture per ball and roll gently into round shapes.
  2. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4 – Cook the Balls

Option 1 – Baking (Healthier & Easy):

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Brush or spray balls lightly with olive oil or butter.
  • Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).

Option 2 – Pan-Frying (Crispier Exterior):

  • Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Cook balls for 3–4 minutes per side until browned, then transfer to oven for 10 minutes to finish cooking.

Step 5 – Serve

  1. Serve hot with turkey gravy, cranberry sauce, or as part of a festive platter.

Methods

  • Use leftover stuffing for an easy post-holiday recipe.
  • Add finely chopped celery and carrots for extra texture.
  • Make them gluten-free by using gluten-free stuffing mix.
  • Freeze uncooked balls for up to 2 months; bake straight from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes.

History

Stuffing has been used to flavor poultry for centuries, with origins in ancient Rome and medieval Europe. The idea of shaping stuffing into balls gained popularity in Britain, where “stuffing balls” were served alongside roasts. Combining stuffing with ground turkey is a modern American twist, allowing the beloved holiday flavors to be enjoyed in a more portable, snackable form.

Benefits

  • Time-Saving: Delivers roast dinner flavors without roasting a whole turkey.
  • Portable: Easy to serve at buffets, parties, or lunchboxes.
  • Balanced Flavors: Herbs and onions bring depth, while stuffing adds comfort.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Great for meal prep or make-ahead holiday cooking.

Formation (Serving Ideas)

  • Arrange on a platter with a bowl of gravy for dipping.
  • Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for a full meal.
  • Add to a sandwich or wrap with lettuce and cranberry mayo.

Conclusion

Delicious Turkey and Stuffing Balls are a bite-sized celebration of holiday flavors. They’re comforting, savory, and perfect for both casual family meals and festive gatherings.

For the Lovers

  • Turkey Lovers: All the tender, juicy turkey flavor without the carving.
  • Stuffing Lovers: Every bite bursts with herby stuffing goodness.
  • Holiday Lovers: A portable way to enjoy Thanksgiving or Christmas flavors year-round.

Methods (Again)

  • Make mini versions for appetizers.
  • Glaze with cranberry sauce in the last 5 minutes of baking for a sweet-savory twist.
  • Use ground chicken instead of turkey for variety.

Conclusion (Again)

From weeknight comfort food to centerpiece-worthy holiday dishes, Turkey and Stuffing Balls prove that big flavor can come in small packages. They’re versatile, hearty, and guaranteed to bring smiles to the table.BALLS

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