Introduction to Savory Cranberry Stuffing Balls
As the holiday season approaches, I find myself dreaming of cozy gatherings filled with laughter and delicious food. One dish that never fails to impress my family and friends is Savory Cranberry Stuffing Balls. These delightful little bites are not just a side dish; they’re a celebration of flavors that bring warmth to any table. Whether you’re hosting a festive feast or simply looking for a quick solution for a busy day, these stuffing balls are the perfect addition. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a cherished part of your holiday traditions!
Why You’ll Love This Savory Cranberry Stuffing Balls
These Savory Cranberry Stuffing Balls are a game-changer for any holiday meal. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them a fantastic choice for busy cooks like me. Plus, the combination of sweet cranberries and savory herbs creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds. They’re not just tasty; they’re also versatile, fitting perfectly alongside turkey, ham, or even as a stand-alone snack!
Ingredients for Savory Cranberry Stuffing Balls
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Savory Cranberry Stuffing Balls. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Prepared stuffing: You can use boxed, homemade, or even leftover stuffing. It’s the base of our dish, so choose your favorite!
- Dried cranberries: These add a sweet and tangy burst. If you prefer, fresh cranberries can be chopped and used instead.
- Finely chopped onion: This is optional, but sautéed onions bring a lovely depth of flavor to the stuffing balls.
- Butter: A little butter helps to sauté the onions and adds richness to the mixture.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds color but also a fresh herbaceous note. Feel free to use other herbs you love!
- Egg: This acts as a binder, helping the stuffing balls hold their shape during baking.
- Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth can be added if the mixture feels too dry. It helps achieve the right consistency.
- Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning, these will enhance all the flavors in your stuffing balls.
- Oil spray or olive oil: A light spray or drizzle before baking ensures a golden, crispy exterior.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Savory Cranberry Stuffing Balls
Making Savory Cranberry Stuffing Balls is a delightful adventure that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a festive side dish that’s sure to impress!
Step 1: Prep the Mix
Start by warming your prepared stuffing. If it’s cold or leftover, a quick zap in the microwave will do the trick. Meanwhile, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. If you’re using onions, sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant, about three minutes. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor!
Once the onions are ready, mix them into the stuffing. Then, stir in the dried cranberries and chopped parsley. The colors will start to pop! Add the lightly beaten egg, which acts as a binder, helping everything hold together. If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash of broth. It should be moist enough to form into balls, similar to meatballs.
Step 2: Form the Balls
Now, let’s get rolling! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Using your hands, roll the stuffing mixture into golf-ball-sized balls, about 1.5 to 2 tablespoons each. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; a little rustic charm adds character! Place them on the baking sheet, leaving some space between each ball. For that golden-brown finish, lightly spray or drizzle them with oil.
Step 3: Bake
It’s time to bake! Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let the magic happen. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside. The inside should remain soft and moist, creating a delightful contrast in textures.
Once they’re done, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Your Savory Cranberry Stuffing Balls are now ready to shine on your holiday table!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your stuffing is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Don’t skip the oil spray; it’s key for that crispy exterior!
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or sage for unique flavors.
- For a fun twist, add chopped nuts for extra crunch.
- These can be made ahead and reheated, perfect for busy days!
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet: A standard baking sheet works well, but a cast-iron skillet can add a nice touch.
- Parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking; aluminum foil is a good alternative.
- Mixing bowl: Any large bowl will do; a stand mixer can save time.
- Skillet: For sautéing onions, a non-stick skillet is ideal.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy, but eyeballing can work too!
Variations
- Herb Infusion: Swap out parsley for fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage for a different flavor profile.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Cheesy Goodness: Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for a creamy twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free stuffing to make these suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with roasted turkey or ham for a classic holiday feast.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Drizzle with a tangy cranberry sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
- Garnish with additional parsley for a pop of color.
- Enjoy with a glass of sparkling cider or white wine.
FAQs about Savory Cranberry Stuffing Balls
As I’ve shared my love for Savory Cranberry Stuffing Balls, I often get questions from fellow home cooks. Here are some of the most common inquiries I’ve encountered:
Can I make Savory Cranberry Stuffing Balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just form the balls and bake them right before serving for the best texture.
What can I substitute for dried cranberries?
If you’re not a fan of dried cranberries, feel free to use raisins or chopped fresh cranberries. Each option brings a unique flavor to your stuffing balls!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Savory Cranberry Stuffing Balls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I freeze these stuffing balls?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked stuffing balls. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What dishes pair well with Savory Cranberry Stuffing Balls?
These stuffing balls are versatile! They pair wonderfully with roasted meats, like turkey or ham, and can also be served alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal.
Final Thoughts
Creating Savory Cranberry Stuffing Balls is more than just cooking; it’s about crafting memories. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that brings warmth to my heart and my home. I love watching my family gather around the table, their faces lighting up with joy as they savor these little treasures. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, these stuffing balls add a festive touch that everyone appreciates. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of cooking, and let these savory bites become a cherished part of your culinary adventures!
Print
Savory Cranberry Stuffing Balls: A Must-Try Recipe!
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 24 stuffing balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Savory Cranberry Stuffing Balls are a delicious and festive side dish perfect for any holiday meal. These bite-sized treats combine the flavors of stuffing, cranberries, and herbs for a delightful addition to your table.
Ingredients
- 4 cups prepared stuffing (boxed, homemade, or leftover)
- 1 cup dried cranberries (or chopped fresh cranberries)
- ½ cup finely chopped onion (optional)
- 2 TBSP butter
- 2 TBSP fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for serving)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup broth (chicken or vegetable) — only as needed
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Oil spray or a drizzle of olive oil for baking
Instructions
- Prep the Mix: If your stuffing is cold or leftover, warm slightly so it’s easy to work with. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté onions (if using) until soft, about 3 minutes. Add onions to stuffing mixture. Stir in cranberries and parsley. Add egg and mix gently. Add a splash of broth only if mixture feels dry — it should hold together like meatballs.
- Form the Balls: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment. Roll stuffing mixture into golf-ball sized balls (about 1.5–2 tbsp each). Place onto baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle with oil for extra browning.
- Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown, crispy on the outside, and soft and moist on the inside.
Notes
- Feel free to customize the stuffing with your favorite herbs and spices.
- These can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
- Serve with additional parsley for garnish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffing ball
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
