Get ready to transform your holiday leftovers into the most irresistible bite-sized sensation that will have your guests begging for more! These Turkey and Stuffing Bites are not just an appetizer; they're a culinary magic trick that combines the classic flavors of Thanksgiving into one perfectly portable, crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside morsel. Imagine all the traditional holiday tastes packed into a single, pop-able bite that's guaranteed to become your new favorite party snack!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 bites
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups prepared stuffing
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, prepared stuffing, shredded cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Using clean hands or a small cookie scoop, portion the turkey mixture into equal-sized balls, filling each mini muffin cup completely.
- Press the turkey mixture gently into each muffin cup, creating a compact and even surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the turkey bites are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- While baking, prepare the cranberry dipping sauce by whisking the cranberry sauce until smooth and transferring to a small serving bowl.
- Remove the turkey bites from the oven and let them rest in the pan for 5 minutes to firm up.
- Carefully remove the bites from the muffin tin using a small offset spatula or butter knife.
- Arrange the turkey and stuffing bites on a serving platter and serve warm with the cranberry dipping sauce.
Tips
- Use cold or room temperature stuffing for better binding and easier mixing with ground turkey.
- Don't overmix the meat mixture to keep the bites tender and prevent them from becoming dense.
- For extra crispy edges, use a mini muffin tin with a non-stick surface or generously grease the pan.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure food safety and perfect doneness.
- Let the bites rest for 5 minutes after baking to help them hold their shape when removing from the pan.
- For a flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or sage to the turkey mixture.
- Make the cranberry dipping sauce ahead of time and refrigerate to allow flavors to meld together.
- These bites can be prepared in advance and frozen before baking - perfect for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 60kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 15mg
