Turkey stuffing balls are little bundles of joy made with yummy turkey, herbs, and spices. They’re great for a cozy meal or as a tasty side dish during holidays!
These bites are perfect for soaking up gravy, and honestly, who can resist that? I love making extra just to snack on before dinner; they always disappear fast! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Day-old Bread: Use white or sourdough bread for great texture. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free bread options. I love sourdough for its tangy flavor!
Ground Turkey: Cooked ground turkey adds protein. You can substitute chicken or even cooked sausage for a different flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, try crumbled mushrooms or black beans!
Herbs: Fresh parsley brightens the dish. If you don’t have it, dried herbs will work too. Just remember, it’s about 1/3 of the amount when using dried.
Eggs: They help bind the stuffing. If you’re vegan, try using flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) or applesauce for binding.
How Do I Ensure My Stuffing Balls Hold Together?
The key to keeping your turkey stuffing balls together is moisture. After mixing your ingredients, the mixture should feel moist but not soggy, so adjust the chicken broth as needed.
- Start with the recommended 1 cup of broth and add a little more if it feels too dry.
- Pack the mixture tightly into your muffin tin. This helps them hold their shape during baking.
- If they seem to crumble after baking, next time, try adding an extra egg or a bit more broth!
With these tips, you’ll create perfectly shaped and delicious turkey stuffing balls every time! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Turkey Stuffing Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 cups cubed day-old bread (white or sourdough)
- 1 cup cooked ground turkey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (more if needed)
- Optional: 1/4 cup dried cranberries or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, and then around 25-30 minutes for baking. So, in total, you’ll need about 45 minutes to enjoy your delicious turkey stuffing balls!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, lightly grease a muffin tin or line it with silicone cups. This will help your stuffing balls come out easily after baking!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced onions, celery, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened and translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Then, remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool for a bit on the counter.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread, cooked ground turkey, the sautéed vegetables, fresh parsley, dried sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to mix well.
4. Add the Egg and Broth Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and 1 cup of chicken broth. Then, pour this mixture over your bread mixture. Toss everything together gently, adding more chicken broth if it feels too dry. You want the stuffing to be moist, but not soaking wet!
5. Optional Add-Ins:
If you’re using dried cranberries or nuts, now is the time to fold them into the mixture for an extra pop of flavor and texture.
6. Pack and Bake:
Using a spoon, scoop the stuffing mixture and pack it firmly into each muffin tin cup. It’s important to pack it tightly so the balls hold together while baking. Pop the tin into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. They should be golden brown on top and baked through!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let them cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the tin. Serve warm as a delicious side dish or appetizer. Enjoy your tasty turkey stuffing balls!
These turkey stuffing balls are sure to be a hit at any meal and add a lovely twist to your traditional stuffing! Happy cooking! 😊
Can I Use Gluten-Free Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free bread works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure it’s day-old or slightly stale for the best texture. You may need to adjust the amount of broth slightly, as gluten-free bread can absorb more moisture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover turkey stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze These Stuffing Balls?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffing balls before or after baking. Just ensure they are completely cooled, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Turkey?
If you’re not a fan of turkey, you can use cooked ground chicken, pork, or even a plant-based meat substitute. Cooked quinoa or mushrooms can also be great alternatives for a vegetarian option!
