Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls bring savory turkey, tart cranberries, and aromatic herbs together in one cozy bite. These little gems are tender inside with a golden finish outside. Perfect for Thanksgiving, they double as a hearty side, a fun appetizer, or even a holiday party snack. Their balance of sweet cranberry bursts and savory stuffing flavors makes them a standout on any festive table. Whether served with gravy, cranberry sauce, or creamy dips, they guarantee smiles and second helpings.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, gather the following ingredients for the base stuffing mixture and flavor:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Olive oil, for drizzling
Quick Recipe Overview
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
Yield
24 stuffing balls
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you are.
Mix the Base Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs, cranberries, onion, celery, garlic, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture looks evenly blended.
Add the Turkey and Eggs
Add the ground turkey, eggs, and chicken broth. Mix thoroughly with a spoon or your hands until everything is well incorporated.
Shape the Stuffing Balls
With slightly damp hands, roll the mixture into Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls about 1 to 1½ inches in size, keeping them uniform for even baking.
This keeps them from sticking.
Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Place each ball on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly so they cook consistently.
Bake to Golden Perfection
Drizzle lightly with olive oil, then bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve Warm
Let them cool for a few minutes, then serve with gravy, cranberry sauce, or any favorite holiday dip.
Tips, Variations, and Substitutions
Make-Ahead & Freezing
Prepare the mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it, shaping and baking when ready. Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls also freeze beautifully, whether cooked or uncooked.
You can also freeze uncooked or baked stuffing balls. Just freeze on a tray first, then transfer to a container or freezer bag.
Flavor Variations
For extra richness, fold in shredded cheese, sausage, or chopped nuts. Dried fruit like apricots or raisins adds sweetness, while diced jalapeños bring heat. For a festive touch, drizzle maple syrup over baked balls.
Substitutions
Swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free bread crumbs or cooked quinoa. These alternatives keep the texture while suiting dietary needs.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, place the stuffing balls on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes. This method helps them stay tender inside without drying out.
Serving Suggestions
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls shine with classic Thanksgiving gravy, but they’re also delicious with cranberry sauce or creamy dips. They work well as a fun party appetizer, a side dish, or even a light main when served with salad or roasted vegetables. Their versatility makes them a perfect fit for holiday spreads or weeknight comfort meals.
Explore Similar Recipes
If you enjoyed this, check out more comforting holiday favorites on our home page.
FAQ – Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
How do you know when stuffing balls are done?
They’re ready when the outside is golden and the inside reaches 165°F. The texture should be firm but still tender.
How to make cranberry stuffing balls?
Mix breadcrumbs, cranberries, vegetables, and seasonings, then add turkey, eggs, and broth. Shape into balls, bake at 375°F until golden, and serve warm.
Can you prepare stuffing balls the day before?
Yes, prepare the mixture, cover, and refrigerate. Shape and bake them fresh the next day for best texture.
How long can you leave stuffing in a turkey?
Stuffing inside a turkey should not be left longer than 2 hours after cooking. For safety, remove it promptly and refrigerate leftovers.
Final Thoughts
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are festive, flavorful, and wonderfully versatile. They take everything you love about holiday stuffing and pack it into bite-sized portions bursting with flavor. Whether you make them for Thanksgiving dinner or as a cozy snack for winter gatherings, they add warmth and charm to the table. With make-ahead options and endless variations, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. For more inspiration, visit our recipe boards on Pinterest.
Print
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls – Festive and Flavorful Holiday Bites
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 stuffing balls 1x
Description
Savory turkey, tart cranberries, and classic herbs baked into tender stuffing balls. Perfect as a holiday side, appetizer, or snack in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
1 lb ground turkey
1 cup fresh cranberries
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried sage
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 large eggs
½ cup chicken broth
Olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix breadcrumbs, cranberries, onion, celery, garlic, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
3. Add ground turkey and eggs, then pour in chicken broth; mix thoroughly until well combined.
4. Shape mixture into 1 to 1½ inch balls with damp hands to avoid sticking.
5. Place balls evenly spaced on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked.
8. Cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Add or substitute herbs and vegetables to suit your taste.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until hot.
Mixture can be prepared ahead; refrigerate until ready to bake.
Freeze uncooked or baked balls on a tray, then store in a freezer bag or container.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Thanksgiving Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffing ball