Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls – The Perfect Holiday Appetizer!

Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls for Holiday Parties 🎉🦃✨

1. Introduction

Welcome to your next crowd-pleasing holiday appetizer! These cranberry stuffing balls are the perfect combination of savory turkey, sweet cranberries, and crispy breading. They’re ideal for holiday parties and family gatherings, offering a delightful bite-sized treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas, Thanksgiving, or New Year’s celebration, these turkey stuffing bites are guaranteed to impress. Easy to prepare and packed with flavorful ingredients, they make excellent holiday party snacks that bring festive cheer to any occasion.

2. Ingredients for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 2 cups stuffing bread cubes or prepared stuffing
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• Vegetable oil for frying

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Holiday Cranberry Stuffing Balls

Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, dried cranberries, prepared stuffing, grated Parmesan, beaten eggs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Form the Balls

Using your hands, scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a compact ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used. Place the formed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Coat the Balls

Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko bread crumbs. Roll each ball in flour, dip in egg, and then coat evenly with panko bread crumbs. This creates a crispy outer layer perfect for a holiday appetizer.

Fry the Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer until hot (around 350°F/175°C). Carefully add the balls and fry in batches for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

4. Storage Tips for Make-Ahead Holiday Snacks

Allow the stuffing balls to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To serve later, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. The result is a flavorful and crispy snack perfect for holiday entertaining.

5. Serving Suggestions for This Festive Holiday Appetizer

Arrange the cranberry turkey stuffing bites on a festive platter and garnish with extra parsley or cranberry sauce for dipping. These holiday party snacks pair wonderfully with a variety of dips, such as a creamy ranch or a tangy cranberry sauce. Serve alongside cheese and charcuterie boards, or as part of a larger holiday finger foods spread. For an extra touch, sprinkle with fresh herbs and spicy paprika for vibrant color and flavor.

6. FAQs About Cranberry Stuffing Balls for Holiday Parties

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and shape the balls in advance, then refrigerate them. Fry just before serving to ensure they stay crispy and fresh.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely. Place formed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden.

Are these suitable for gluten-free diets?

For a gluten-free version, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed rice crackers. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How long do these cranberry stuffing balls take to prepare?

Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, including mixing, forming, and frying, making them perfect for quick holiday snacking.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Perfect for chopping parsley and preparing ingredients efficiently, saving you time in the kitchen.
• Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Stay refreshed with festive drinks while preparing your holiday snacks; this tool keeps beverages chilled and ready.
• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker – Warm leftovers or keep your holiday appetizer warm during your party with this versatile slow cooker.
• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures your cookware is nonstick and easy to use for frying or baking these flavorful cranberry stuffing balls.

8. Conclusion

These festive cranberry turkey stuffing balls are the ultimate holiday appetizer, combining savory, sweet, and crispy elements in every bite. Easy to make ahead, they are perfect for holiday parties or family gatherings, ensuring your festive event is filled with delicious and eye-catching snacks. Get creative with your presentation, pair them with holiday dips, and watch as your guests rave about these irresistible holiday party snacks. Happy cooking and joyful celebrations!

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