Cranberry Stuffing Balls
Cranberry stuffing balls deliver a savory, tangy flavor with juicy cranberries and herbs, perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family dinners with a comforting taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook sausage, celery, and onions until sausage is done and vegetables are tender.
- Drain excess fat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine meat mixture, stuffing croutons, cranberries, beaten eggs, and enough chicken broth to hold mixture together.
- Shape mixture into 8 to 10 balls and place in a shallow greased baking dish.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey sausage instead of pork. You can also substitute the fresh cranberries with dried cranberries for a sweeter flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms and add more vegetables. Ensure the stuffing mixture is moist but not overly wet by adjusting the chicken broth as needed.
Serving Suggestions
These cranberry stuffing balls make a delightful side dish for holiday meals or dinner parties. They pair beautifully with roasted meats and can be served alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving them with Chicken Hmmm or any other comforting chicken recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cranberry stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven helps retain their crispy exterior.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Stuffing Balls contains roughly 547 calories, with 23g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (144% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (75% of the Daily Value), and potassium (69% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 634mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make cranberry stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing balls ahead of time. Shape them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
If you need a substitute for chicken broth, vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian option. Alternatively, you can use water mixed with a bouillon cube for flavor or homemade broth if you have it on hand.
Can I freeze cranberry stuffing balls?
Yes, cranberry stuffing balls can be frozen. After baking, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen when ready to serve.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).