Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect bite-sized twist on a classic Thanksgiving favorite. Packed with juicy turkey, tart cranberries, and herby stuffing, they’re crispy on the outside and tender inside ideal for holiday dinners or leftover turkey. Pair them with Smoked Turkey Breast or serve alongside Roasted Delicata Squash for a cozy seasonal meal.

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Golden brown cranberry turkey stuffing balls on ceramic plate

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls


  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 balls 1x

Description

These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect bite-sized twist on a classic Thanksgiving favorite. Packed with juicy turkey, tart cranberries, and herby stuffing, they’re crispy on the outside and tender inside—ideal for holiday dinners or leftover turkey.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped
  • 2 cups prepared stuffing (homemade or boxed)
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup chicken or turkey broth (as needed)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp butter, melted (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine chopped turkey, stuffing, cranberries, parsley, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper.
  3. Add a splash of broth if the mixture feels dry—it should hold together easily when shaped.
  4. Roll into golf ball-sized portions and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Brush lightly with melted butter for extra crispiness.
  6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
  7. Serve warm with gravy or cranberry sauce on the side.

Notes

Use Dry-Brined Roast Turkey for rich flavor. Swap dried cranberries with chopped dried cherries for a sweeter touch. Make them mini-sized for appetizers or larger for a main dish. Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes for a crispier texture.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 ball
  • Calories: 110
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 160mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: thanksgiving, turkey leftovers, stuffing balls, cranberry, holiday appetizer

Why You’ll Love It

  • Perfect for leftovers: Uses cooked turkey and leftover stuffing.
  • Freezer-friendly: Make ahead for easy reheating.
  • Portable: Ideal for potlucks or holiday buffets.
  • Festive flavor: Combines savory and tart notes beautifully.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped
  • 2 cups prepared stuffing (homemade or boxed)
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup chicken or turkey broth (as needed)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp butter, melted (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine chopped turkey, stuffing, cranberries, parsley, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper.
  3. Add a splash of broth if the mixture feels dry—it should hold together easily when shaped.
  4. Roll into golf ball-sized portions and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Brush lightly with melted butter for extra crispiness.
  6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
  7. Serve warm with gravy or cranberry sauce on the side.

Tips & Variations

  • Use Dry-Brined Roast Turkey for rich flavor.
  • Swap dried cranberries with chopped dried cherries for a sweeter touch.
  • Make them mini-sized for appetizers or larger for a main dish.
  • Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes for a crispier texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these stuffing balls with warm turkey gravy or a dollop of cranberry sauce. They pair beautifully with Creamy Ground Beef Skillet for a hearty combo, or enjoy them with a side of Oven-Roasted Pumpkin Seeds for a satisfying crunch.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Flash-freeze, then store for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave for 1 minute until warm.

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Shredded chicken works just as well.

Can I make them ahead?

Yes, shape and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

What dipping sauce goes best?

Cranberry sauce, turkey gravy, or even honey mustard are great choices.

More to Try

Conclusion

These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls bring all the flavors of Thanksgiving into one delicious bite. Whether made from scratch or using leftovers, they’re easy, flavorful, and festive perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.

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