The aroma of savory sausage mingling with the tart sweetness of cranberries can only mean one thing: it’s time for festive sausage cranberry stuffing balls. These delightful morsels not only fill your kitchen with heartwarming scents but also capture the essence of holiday gatherings. savory turkey meatball sliders perfectly roasted turkey breast Picture a chilly winter evening, family and friends gathered around the table, laughter echoing as you serve these golden-brown bites that are sure to steal the show.
Every bite is a burst of flavor, from the juicy sausage to the chewy cranberries, making these stuffing balls perfect for Thanksgiving or any celebration. The anticipation builds as they bake, transforming from simple ingredients into irresistible treats that everyone will crave. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be dreaming about these festive sausage cranberry stuffing balls all year long. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These festive sausage cranberry stuffing balls are an effortless addition to your holiday spread
- Bursting with flavor, they are both visually appealing and incredibly versatile
- You can easily customize them with different herbs or even add nuts for extra crunch
- Their golden-brown exterior and soft interior create a delightful texture that keeps everyone coming back for more
I still remember the first time I made these little delights. My Aunt Betty declared them “the best thing since sliced bread,” which is saying a lot coming from someone who considers toast gourmet.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Sausage: Choose your favorite type; spicy adds a kick while mild keeps it classic.
Fresh Cranberries: Opt for bright red berries; frozen works too but may alter texture slightly. fresh pear and pecan salad.
Breadcrumbs: Use dried breadcrumbs for structure; seasoned varieties bring added flavor.
Onions: Sautéed until soft and sweet, onions enhance the overall taste wonderfully.
Celery: Adds crunch and freshness; finely dice it to blend beautifully with other ingredients.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness and keep flavors balanced.
Eggs: Binding agents that hold everything together; use large eggs for best results.
Herbs (Thyme & Sage): Fresh or dried herbs elevate flavors; experiment to find your favorite combination.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later on.
Sauté Vegetables : In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, toss in diced onions and celery until softened and aromatic, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Sausage : Add ground sausage to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks until browned and fully cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when it smells amazing.
Mix Ingredients Together : In a large bowl, combine sautéed sausage mixture with fresh cranberries, breadcrumbs, herbs, and chicken broth. Stir until evenly mixed; this is where the magic begins. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Sausages with Zucchini recipe.
Add Eggs and Form Balls : Beat eggs in a small bowl before adding them to the mixture. Use your hands to form golf ball-sized balls from the mixture, placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake Until Golden Brown : Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top. They should smell heavenly—this is when you know they’re done!
Now you have delicious festive sausage cranberry stuffing balls that will leave everyone wanting seconds! The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—you can even adapt it based on personal preferences or dietary needs.
These festive sausage cranberry stuffing balls are sure to become a favorite at every gathering!
You Must Know
- Festive sausage cranberry stuffing balls are a delightful addition to any holiday feast
- Their savory and sweet flavor combination will impress your guests
- The aroma of sage and fresh herbs fills the kitchen, creating a warm atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the sausage in a pan, then combine it with the bread and cranberries. Bake until golden for the best texture and flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to substitute Italian sausage for chorizo or add chopped nuts for crunch. Experimenting can lead to delicious surprises!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure perfect festive sausage cranberry stuffing balls, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing
- This helps achieve a consistent texture
- Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to dense stuffing balls that lack fluffiness
- Always taste before baking; adjust seasoning as needed!
Creating these festive sausage cranberry stuffing balls reminds me of family gatherings filled with laughter and delicious aromas wafting from the kitchen. stuffed Cornish hens.
FAQ
Can I freeze festive sausage cranberry stuffing balls?
Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking for later enjoyment.
How long do these stuffing balls take to bake?
Bake festive sausage cranberry stuffing balls for about 25-30 minutes at 375°F.
What other ingredients can I add?
Consider adding chopped apples, dried fruits, or different herbs for extra flavor!
Savory Sausage Cranberry Stuffing Balls
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive flavors of these savory sausage cranberry stuffing balls, perfect for holiday gatherings. Each golden-brown ball bursts with juicy sausage and tart cranberries, creating a delightful harmony of taste. Easy to make and versatile, you can customize them to suit your family’s preferences. Whether served as a side dish or an appetizer, these stuffing balls are sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground sausage (spicy or mild)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen)
- 2 cups dried breadcrumbs
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp fresh thyme (or dried)
- 2 tsp fresh sage (or dried)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the diced onions and celery until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground sausage, cooking and breaking it apart until browned and fully cooked.
- In a large bowl, mix the sausage mixture with cranberries, breadcrumbs, herbs, and chicken broth until well combined.
- Beat the eggs in a small bowl and then incorporate into the mixture. Form golf ball-sized balls and place them on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffing balls (60g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
