Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate holiday bite, these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls absolutely fit the bill. Packed with juicy ground turkey, pops of tart dried cranberries, and a fragrant blend of herbs, they’re mouthwatering, fun to eat, and impossibly versatile. Whether you like them as a festive centerpiece, a cozy side, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is destined to become a new tradition in your kitchen—for special occasions or whenever you crave a flavor-packed treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a long list of fussy ingredients to create magic here—each addition brings something essential to the table. From the rich, savory turkey to the sweet pops of cranberry and that satisfying crunch from breadcrumbs, every element helps make these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls irresistible.

• Ground Turkey: Lean, moist, and tender, it’s the main protein and soaks up all the savory flavors.
• Dried Cranberries: Their delightful sweetness and chewy texture make every bite unforgettable.
• Breadcrumbs: Essential for structure—use gluten-free if you need, and they’ll still be light and fluffy.
• Onion (diced): Adds a gentle mellow sweetness and classic stuffing flavor.
• Garlic (minced): Freshly minced for an aromatic punch that elevates every mouthful.
• Dried Sage: Classic Thanksgiving stuffing vibes with an earthy, woodsy backbone.
• Dried Thyme: Brings savory balance and a hint of lemony brightness.
• Salt: Essential for amplifying all the good flavors throughout the stuffing balls.
• Pepper: For just enough warmth without overpowering the delicate turkey.
• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and richness—helps keep everything juicy as it bakes.
• Eggs (beaten): The natural binder, these give the balls structure and help hold them together.
• Chopped Parsley: Fresh, vibrant, and just the thing for a colorful, herby finish.

How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a total breeze and prevents sticking, so your beautiful Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls pop right off the tray without a crumb left behind.

Step 2: Mix Up the Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the ground turkey, dried cranberries, breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Don’t rush this step—the more evenly these ingredients are mixed, the more balanced every bite will taste. Gentle hands are best; you want it all incorporated, but not compacted into mush!

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Next, pour in your chicken broth, beaten eggs, and chopped parsley. Use a fork or your hands to mix until everything is just combined. Too much mixing can make the stuffing balls dense, so stop as soon as the mixture holds together.

Step 4: Shape the Balls

Scoop out portions (about the size of a golf ball) and roll gently in your hands to form balls. Set them on your prepared baking sheet, making sure they have a little space to brown evenly. Depending on the size, you’ll get 12 to 16 balls.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop them into the oven and let them bake for 25–30 minutes, or until they’re golden and cooked through. The kitchen will smell absolutely heavenly. Let them cool a minute or two before serving—you want them warm, not tongue-scorching!

How to Serve Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Garnishes

For a burst of color and great flavor, sprinkle fresh parsley over your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls just before serving. A drizzle of rich turkey gravy or a dollop of tangy cranberry sauce also takes these from delicious to downright decadent. If you like a bit of crunch, try adding toasted pecans or walnuts on top for an extra festive touch.

Side Dishes

These stuffing balls pair beautifully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a big green salad tossed with a citrus vinaigrette. If you want to keep things super festive, serve them alongside sweet potato casserole or a comforting root vegetable medley to let all the flavors of the season sing.

Creative Ways to Present

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls shine as finger food on a party platter, especially with toothpicks or mini skewers. Build sliders by tucking them into soft rolls with a swipe of cranberry sauce, or arrange them in a ring with a bowl of gravy in the center for dipping. You can even tuck a few into a holiday lunchbox or serve them cold atop a big salad for something completely different!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, stash them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, perfect for easy lunches or a quick snack when that craving strikes again. If you’re planning a big event, you can even shape and chill the raw balls a day in advance—just bake when you’re ready!

Freezing

These stuffing balls freeze like a dream. Simply place cooled balls on a tray to freeze solid, then move them to a freezer-friendly zip-top bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, place them back on a baking sheet and warm in the oven until hot throughout—no need to thaw first.

Reheating

For best results, reheat leftover Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 10–15 minutes. Microwaving works too—just cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Don’t forget a splash of gravy or extra sauce to bring those flavors back to life!

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries are a bit more tart and juicy, which can add a fun twist! Chop them coarsely before adding, but use about half as much, as they tend to have a stronger flavor and release more liquid.

What’s the best way to make these gluten-free?

Simply swap the breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free version—store-bought or homemade both work well. The binding and texture will be just as delicious, and no one will even notice the difference!

Can I make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time?

Absolutely! Shape the mixture into balls and chill them on a tray, covered, up to a day in advance. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them straight into the oven. They’re perfect for prepping ahead for big gatherings or holiday stress-free hosting.

Are these good for meal prep or lunchboxes?

They hold up perfectly in the fridge and travel well, making them a fantastic meal prep option. Tuck a couple into your lunchbox with a little dipping sauce or gravy, and you’ve got a satisfying high-protein lunch that’s anything but boring.

Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey?

Yes! Ground chicken makes a lighter but equally tasty alternative, while beef will give the balls a richer, heartier flavor. Feel free to experiment, knowing that the cranberry and herb flavors will still shine through beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something joyful about rolling up a batch of Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls and knowing you’re about to share some cozy comfort with people you care about. Give these a try the next time you want to bring a little extra magic to your table—they’re bound to disappear faster than you can say “holiday favorite!”

Print