Gluten Free Stuffing Balls

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Gluten Free Stuffing Balls are a savory-sweet bite sized twist on holiday favorites. Made with tender ground turkey, flavorful stuffing and burst of tart cranberry, they're crispy on the outside, moist on the inside and perfect for snacking, dipping or serving as a festive appetizer or side.

Are you looking for an easy side dish or appetizer to offer at Thanksgiving this year? These gluten free stuffing balls are so simple to make in just 25 minutes and you won't even realize they are totally gluten free. This recipe is designed to use gluten free stuffing or your favorite day old gluten free bread with the rest of the ingredients already free of gluten.

These gluten free cranberry and turkey stuffing balls bring all that classic holiday flavor, but in a fun sized twist that tastes amazing! The texture is irresistable with the crispy edges that give way to a soft, moist center studded with cranberries and savory ground turkey.

These little gluten free stuffing balls are perfect alongside this Dutch Oven Turkey Breast, these Creamy Red Skin Mashed Potatoes and this Cauliflower Gravy, or as a charming appetizer for holiday parties. They also make a lovely addition to your Friendsgiving spread or even a post holiday leftover snack.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE

• Completely gluten free: Made with either your favorite gluten free stuffing or dried gluten free bread cubes, these stuffing balls are perfectly soft and satisfying without compromising the texture.

• Prep ahead and make ahead friendly: You can prep the mixture in advance, chill overnight and bake fresh before serving.

• Holiday flavor in each bite: Cranberries, seasonings, and turkey come together for the ultimate cozy, festive flavor.

• Versatile dish: Serve as a side dish, appetizer or even the main event for small gatherings.

INGREDIENTS + SUBSTITUTIONS

• Ground turkey: The savory base to these stuffing balls. You can also use ground chicken or pork.

• Dried cranberries: Provides sweetness and a festive pop of red coloring. You can use fresh cranberries just saute before use to cut on the tartness.

• Gluten free stuffing mix or dried gluten free bread: Use your favorite stuffing mix, homemade stuffing or day old gluten free bread. If using homemade stuffing or day old bread, toast lightly before using so the broth can be easily absorbed.

• Egg: Holds everything together. This is an essential ingredient so don't skip it.

• Chicken broth: Keeps the mixture moist and adds savory depth.

• Poultry seasoning: Delivers the warm and herby flavors of traditional stuffing.

• Garlic powder: Adds savory aromatic flavor.

• Butter: Melted, brings richness and buttery flavor to the mix.

Scroll down to the recipe card below for quantities used.

HOW TO MAKE STUFFING BALLS

Step 1: Mix the all ingredients together

Step 2: Roll into balls and bake

Step 3: Serve and enjoy!

EMILY'S TIPS

• Use gluten free stuffing mix, your favorite gluten free stuffing or day old gluten free bread. You can use any but make sure if you are using the gluten free stuffing or day old bread that you toast it lightly before use to help absorb the broth without becoming mushy.

• Chill before baking. Optional to do and I didn't even put it in the instructions but letting it chill for 15-20 minutes before baking helps the stuffing balls hold their shape in the oven better.

• Use parchment paper. This is a must do for this recipe to keep the bottoms from sticking and helping them brown up evenly.

• Don't overcrowd the sheet pan. Give each ball space to crisp up on all sides.

• Check for doneness. Ensure they reach at least 165 degrees F if made with chicken or turkey. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

This stuffing balls recipe is great for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners. You can also enjoy them as an appetizer or snack. Here are some of our favorites we like to have them with:

Dutch Oven Turkey Breast Roast

Slow Cooker Honey Ham

Cauliflower Gravy

Gluten Free Sweet Potato Casserole

Honey Roasted Baby Carrots

STORAGE + REHEATING

Refrigerate: Store cooled stuffing balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freeze: Freeze in a single layer, then store in a freezer safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Warm in a 350 degree F oven for 10-12 minutes or until heated through. I don't recommend microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

RECIPE FAQ'S

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can easily prepare the mixture up to 24 hours ahead, cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I make them without the meat?

Sure, you can replace the turkey with mushrooms, or lentils if keeping vegetarian.

Can I use fresh cranberries?

Yes, just chop them and saute briefly to soften and reduce the tartness.

Can I make without the egg?

No, please don't skip the egg. It prevents the balls from falling apart while cooking.

How can I keep them warm from serving?

Place them in a warm oven, about 200 degrees F until ready to serve.

I hope you give these Gluten Free Stuffing Balls a try! If you do give this recipe a try, please let me know!

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