What’s the perfect side dish for your weeknight dinner? Try these easy turkey stuffing balls made with homemade bread and savory herbs, a quick family favorite, save for later

Turkey Stuffing Balls

Introduction

Imagine a dish that combines the warmth of traditional Thanksgiving flavors with the ease and creativity of a modern appetizer or side dish. Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect solution for anyone looking to impress their guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Made with everyday ingredients, these bite-sized balls of goodness pack a punch of flavor and can be customized to suit any taste. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort for maximum impact.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of savory turkey, aromatic herbs, and slightly sweet breadcrumbs creates a balanced flavor profile that’s hard to resist. Plus, all the ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are simple to prepare. You can even make the mixture ahead of time and assemble the balls just before baking.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the simplicity of the recipe, the end result is impressive and sure to wow your family and friends. The presentation is elegant, and the flavors are complex and satisfying.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this recipe include ground turkey, stale bread, onion, celery, herbs like sage and thyme, chicken broth, and eggs. For practical substitutions, you can use ground chicken or pork if you prefer, and gluten-free bread for those with dietary restrictions. The herbs can also be adjusted based on personal taste, and you can add other spices or seasonings to give the dish an extra boost of flavor.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by prepping your ingredients. Chop the onion and celery into small pieces and sauté them in a pan until they’re soft and fragrant. Tear the bread into small crumbs and set it aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, sautéed onion and celery, bread crumbs, chopped herbs, and a splash of chicken broth. Mix everything together with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Step 3: Add the eggs to the mixture and mix until the eggs are fully incorporated. The mixture should be moist but not too wet. If it’s too dry, you can add a bit more broth.
4. Step 4: Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place the balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a little bit of olive oil over the top of each ball and gently roll them around to coat evenly.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overmix the turkey mixture, as this can make the stuffing balls dense and heavy. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are just combined.
• If you find that your mixture is too wet, you can add a bit more breadcrumbs. If it’s too dry, add a splash more chicken broth.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Leave a little space between each stuffing ball to allow for even cooking.

Heat Control

To cook the Turkey Stuffing Balls, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 18-20 minutes, or until the balls are cooked through and lightly browned on the outside. You can check for doneness by cutting into one of the balls; it should be fully cooked and not pink in the center.

Crunch Factor

The outside of the Turkey Stuffing Balls should be lightly browned and crispy, while the inside remains moist and tender. To achieve this, make sure to not overbake them. If you prefer a crisper exterior, you can broil the balls for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To make the recipe more efficient, prepare the turkey mixture and shape the balls ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
• For an extra crispy exterior, you can coat the balls in a bit of grated Parmesan cheese or panko breadcrumbs before baking.
• Consider using a cookie scoop to portion out the mixture and make the balls more uniform in size.

Storage Tips

• Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked balls for up to 2 months. Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• When reheating, make sure the balls are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re looking to give Turkey Stuffing Balls as a gift, consider packaging them in a decorative tin or jar. You can wrap each ball individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in the container. Add a ribbon and a gift tag with the recipe and reheating instructions for a thoughtful touch.

Flavor Variations

• 🌟 Different spices: Try adding some dried cranberries and orange zest for a festive twist, or use Italian seasonings like basil and oregano for an herby flavor.
• 🌟 Creative toppings: Top the balls with a bit of melted cheese, chopped fresh herbs, or a drizzle of your favorite sauce for added flavor and visual appeal.
• 🌟 Ingredient swaps: Use ground beef or pork instead of turkey, or substitute the bread with gluten-free crackers for a different texture.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the balls are too dense, it may be because the mixture was overmixed. Try mixing the ingredients just until they come together, and don’t overwork the meat.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have certain ingredients on hand, feel free to substitute with similar items. Just be aware that this may affect the flavor and texture of the final product.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the balls while they’re baking, and check for doneness by cutting into one. If they’re not cooked through, return them to the oven for a few more minutes.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cooked Turkey Stuffing Balls for up to 2 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat until warmed through.
• Is it gluten-free? The recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free bread and being mindful of the ingredients in the chicken broth and any additional seasonings.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe if you’re feeding a larger crowd. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, and keep an eye on the balls to prevent overcooking.

Conclusion

Turkey Stuffing Balls are a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their ease of preparation, impressive presentation, and customizable flavor, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your household. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the oohs and aahs from your family and friends when you serve them up. Happy cooking!