Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Balls

Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Balls: The Perfect Holiday Appetizer

Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Balls are a delicious twist on traditional holiday flavors, combining savory sausage, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy pistachios into perfect, bite-sized party treats. Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering, this recipe blends the warmth of classic stuffing with a fun, portable format that’s sure to impress family and friends. Moreover, their irresistible combination of flavors makes them an instant crowd favorite.

Why You’ll Love Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Balls
Whether you’re looking for an easy appetizer or a unique addition to your holiday spread, Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Balls offer something for everyone. For instance, their balance of flavors and textures—savory, sweet, and slightly nutty—sets them apart as a standout dish. Furthermore, they’re simple to prepare and can be made in advance, which means you’ll have more time to entertain guests and less time stuck in the kitchen. In addition, their versatility makes them suitable for a variety of holiday occasions, from family dinners to festive parties.

Tips for Making the Best Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Balls
To begin with, the recipe starts with mild ground sausage, which is cooked to perfection and combined with stuffing mix, melted butter, dried cranberries, and just a touch of rosemary for subtle herbal warmth. Next, after mixing all the ingredients, roll the flavorful mixture into small, bite-sized balls. After that, coat each ball in finely ground pistachios for a delicate crunch and a festive, eye-catching look.
For an extra crispy finish, bake the balls briefly in a hot oven—just 5-7 minutes at 425°F—and watch them turn golden. This quick baking process not only ensures an extra crispy finish but also helps them achieve a beautiful golden color. As a result, you’ll have perfectly textured, flavorful appetizers that are sure to be a hit.

Serve with Style
To make your Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Balls even more appealing, consider adding small skewers to each one. This makes them easy to grab and ensures mess-free serving, which is especially helpful for holiday buffets or cocktail parties. Additionally, pairing these stuffing balls with a tangy dipping sauce, such as cranberry relish or honey mustard, can elevate their flavor profile even further.

In conclusion, these simple yet satisfying appetizers will bring holiday cheer to your table, offering a wonderful blend of traditional and unique flavors that everyone will love. Not only are they festive and delicious, but they’re also easy to prepare, making them the perfect addition to your holiday recipe collection. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or attending a potluck, Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Balls are guaranteed to impress!

INGREDIENTS
1 lb mild ground Italian sausage
2 cups stuffing mix with herbs
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup melted butter
1 tsp dried rosemary,
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1/4 cup pistachios

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage thoroughly, breaking it into small crumbles as it browns. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the stuffing mix according to package instructions. Allow it to cool enough to handle comfortably.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, prepared stuffing, melted butter, dried cranberries, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.
4. Shape the mixture into bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Roll each ball in finely ground pistachios, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.
6. For a crispy finish, arrange the balls on a baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
7. Insert small skewers into each ball for easy serving at parties.

Optional: Serve Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Balls with a side of warm gravy for dipping, adding a rich, savory element that complements the festive flavors.

These festive bites are perfect for gatherings, adding a savory touch to any holiday spread. Enjoy!