turkey dressing balls recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best turkey dressing balls recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – turkey dressing balls. This dish has been a staple at our holiday gatherings for years, and I’m always asked to bring it.

It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. My kids love helping me make the dressing balls, and they’re always a hit at potlucks and family gatherings.

The best part is that this recipe is easy to make in bulk, so you can have plenty of leftovers for future meals. The combination of ground turkey, herbs, and spices creates a delicious and savory flavor that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

One of the things I love about this recipe is that it’s a great way to use up leftover bread – just tear it into small pieces and mix it with the turkey mixture. The result is a moist and flavorful dressing that’s perfect for stuffing bell peppers or serving alongside roasted vegetables.

My family and I have enjoyed this recipe for years, and I’m confident you’ll love it just as much as we do.

Turkey Dressing Balls

Turkey Dressing Balls

4.8 from 1947 votes

These turkey dressing balls combine ground turkey with seasoned bread cubes for a savory side dish. They are baked until golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining moist inside.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Turkey Dressing Balls

1 pound ground turkey
2 cups dry bread cubes
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon dried sage
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3In a small skillet over medium heat, cook the onion and celery for about 3 minutes until softened.
4Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, bread cubes, chicken broth, beaten egg, cooked onion and celery, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6Mix gently until just combined.
7Shape the mixture into 12 equal-sized balls, about 1.
5 inches in diameter.
8Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
9Brush the tops of the balls with melted butter.
10Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the balls are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
11Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
12Serve warm as a side dish or appetizer.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Measuring cups and spoons
Small skillet

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 16g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 520mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 24g

📝Notes

For a crispier exterior, place the balls under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes after baking. You can substitute ground chicken or pork for the turkey.

Watch Video Of How Turkey Dressing Balls Works

These turkey dressing balls are perfect for any occasion – holidays, potlucks, or even just a quick weeknight dinner.

They’re easy to make in bulk and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Dressing Balls

Q: What type of bread should I use for the dressing balls?

For this recipe, you can use any type of bread you like, but I prefer to use a stale white bread. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free bread if you prefer.

Q: Can I make the dressing balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dressing balls ahead of time by preparing the mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Q: How do I keep the dressing balls moist?

To keep the dressing balls moist, make sure not to overmix the mixture. Also, don’t overbake them – they should be lightly browned on the outside but still tender on the inside.

Q: Can I freeze the dressing balls?

Yes, you can freeze the dressing balls for up to 3 months. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for storage.

Q: Are these dressing balls healthy?

This recipe is relatively healthy compared to other meatball recipes. The ground turkey provides lean protein, while the herbs and spices add flavor without added salt or sugar.

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