Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a fun twist on classic holiday flavors. They bring together the savory taste of turkey and stuffing with sweet, tart cranberries, all rolled into bite-sized balls that are perfect for snacking or serving as a side. They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, giving you a wonderful mix of textures with every bite.
I love making these because they’re so easy to share at gatherings or to enjoy as a tasty snack when you’re craving something comforting but not too heavy. The cranberries add a bright pop of flavor that balances the rich turkey and savory herbs in the stuffing. I usually add a little extra seasoning and bake them until they’re golden brown—it always brings a smile to everyone’s face when they dive in.
One of my favorite ways to serve these is with a simple dipping sauce, like a creamy mustard or a smooth cranberry chutney, that complements the flavors without overpowering them. They’re perfect for holiday parties or whenever you want a cozy, homemade treat that reminds you of Thanksgiving, but in a fun, new way.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey: Using cooked turkey adds great flavor and texture. You can swap for chicken or even a plant-based alternative if you want a vegetarian option.
Stuffing Mix: Pre-made stuffing works fine, but homemade stuffing can add extra freshness. Gluten-free bread or cornbread can be used for gluten-free versions.
Cranberries: Dried cranberries bring a sweet-tart punch. If you don’t have these, fresh cranberries finely chopped or raisins can work too.
Herbs & Seasoning: Sage and thyme are classic turkey stuffers. Fresh herbs are great if you have them. Adjust seasoning to suit your taste.
How Do I Get the Stuffing Balls to Hold Together and Brown Perfectly?
Binding the mixture firmly is key so the balls don’t fall apart during baking. Here’s how I do it:
- Use eggs and broth as binders—don’t skip them, but add broth gradually to avoid sogginess.
- Mash the mixture gently to help it stick together without turning mushy.
- Form balls that aren’t too big; about 1 1/2 inches works well for even cooking.
- Brush or drizzle with oil or butter before baking to get that golden, crisp outside.
- Turn the balls halfway through baking for even browning on all sides.
These tips help you get crispy, tasty balls that hold their shape and taste great every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for cooking the balls evenly and getting them crispy on the outside.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – stops sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Large mixing bowl – to mix all your ingredients comfortably without spilling.
- Small mixing bowl – handy for whisking eggs and broth together smoothly.
- Ice cream scoop or spoon – helps you portion the balls quickly and evenly.
- Brush – to spread olive oil or melted butter for a golden finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap turkey for cooked chicken or tofu for a different protein that still works well with the stuffing base.
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that pairs nicely with the cranberries.
- Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for a melty, rich touch inside the balls.
- Skip cranberries and add sautéed mushrooms for an earthier feel, great for mushroom lovers.
How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped or shredded
- 3 cups stuffing mix (prepared or homemade)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup cooked celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cooked onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup turkey or chicken broth (plus more if needed)
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter, for brushing or drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake. So, from start to finish, plan for about 45 minutes total—quick enough for a tasty holiday side or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to keep the balls from sticking.
2. Mix the Stuffing Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the chopped turkey, stuffing mix, dried cranberries, cooked celery, cooked onion, and fresh parsley. Stir them together gently so all the flavors are mixed well.
3. Add the Liquid and Seasonings:
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, broth, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Pour this over the stuffing mixture. Stir gently to combine everything. If it feels too dry and crumbly to hold together, add a little more broth, one tablespoon at a time.
4. Form the Stuffing Balls:
With your hands or a small ice cream scoop, shape the mixture into balls about 1 1/2 inches in size. Place them spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Brush or drizzle the tops of each ball with olive oil or melted butter. This helps them brown beautifully in the oven.
6. Bake the Balls:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through baking, carefully turn the balls to help them brown evenly on all sides. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and heated through.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Take the balls out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and some extra cranberries if you like. Serve warm, either as a fun appetizer or alongside your holiday meal.
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for These Stuffing Balls?
Yes! Just make sure the turkey is fully thawed and well-drained before mixing. Pat it dry with paper towels to avoid extra moisture that could make the balls too wet.
Can I Prepare the Stuffing Balls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the balls a few hours in advance and keep them covered in the fridge. Bake just before serving for the best texture and freshness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep them crispy.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Try a creamy mustard sauce, cranberry chutney, or even a simple gravy. These complement the savory and sweet flavors perfectly without overpowering them.
