Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Delight your taste buds with these savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls, perfect for any holiday gathering or cozy family dinner.

Jocelyn Parker

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2025-12-19T14:56:54.589Z

These Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious twist on traditional stuffing, combining the flavors of turkey, cranberries, and herbs. Whether served as a side dish or an appetizer, they are sure to impress your guests!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • A perfect blend of savory turkey and sweet cranberries
  • Crispy on the outside and moist on the inside
  • Easy to make and great for meal prep
  • Versatile enough to be served as a main or side dish

A Flavorful Holiday Classic

Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful twist on traditional stuffing. Combining the savory flavors of turkey with the sweetness of cranberries, these bites pack a punch of flavor that will impress your guests. They are perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy family dinner. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch on the outside while remaining moist and tender on the inside, making them an irresistible addition to any meal.

Not only do these stuffing balls taste amazing, but they also look stunning on any table. Their golden-brown exterior and vibrant cranberry flecks add a festive touch to your holiday spread. Serve them alongside your favorite roasted vegetables or as a standalone appetizer, and watch as they become the star of the show.

Easy to Make and Meal Prep Friendly

One of the best things about Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls is how simple they are to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time. This recipe is perfect for busy cooks who want to serve a homemade dish without spending all day in the kitchen. The versatility of this dish also allows for easy meal prep; you can make them ahead of time and freeze for later use.

When you're ready to serve, simply reheat them in the oven, and they'll taste just as fresh as when you first made them. This makes them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Plus, they can be enjoyed on their own or paired with various dips and sauces for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These stuffing balls are incredibly versatile. While they shine as a side dish to turkey or ham, they can also stand alone as a delicious appetizer. Consider serving them with a tangy cranberry sauce or a creamy ranch dip for an added flavor boost. For an even heartier meal, serve them over a bed of greens with a drizzle of vinaigrette, creating a delightful salad that will satisfy any hunger.

If you're looking to customize this recipe, feel free to experiment with different herbs or add-ins. Chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, can add a delightful crunch. For a kick of heat, consider incorporating some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. The possibilities are endless, making this a recipe that can be tailored to suit your family's tastes.

Ingredients

For the Stuffing Balls

  • 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
  • 1 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey, bread crumbs, chopped cranberries, onion, celery, parsley, egg, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Form the Balls

Add chicken broth gradually until the mixture holds together. Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

Bake

Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store your leftover Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you wish to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled stuffing balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen stuffing balls, transfer them to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This will help retain their crispy exterior and moist interior, ensuring they taste just as delicious as when they were first made.

Nutritional Benefits

Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls not only taste great but also offer nutritional benefits. Turkey is a lean protein source, making these stuffing balls a healthier option compared to traditional fried appetizers. The addition of cranberries provides antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to a balanced meal.

Incorporating fresh herbs like parsley adds flavor and nutrients without extra calories. The use of whole-grain bread crumbs can increase fiber content, making these stuffing balls a more wholesome choice. Enjoying them as part of a balanced diet can help you feel satisfied while providing essential nutrients.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover turkey?

Absolutely! Leftover turkey works perfectly for this recipe.

→ Can these be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffing balls in advance and freeze them. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with these?

These stuffing balls pair well with gravy, cranberry sauce, or as a side to your favorite holiday dishes.

→ Are these gluten-free?

You can make these gluten-free by using gluten-free bread crumbs.

Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Delight your taste buds with these savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls, perfect for any holiday gathering or cozy family dinner.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time50 minutes

Created by: Jocelyn Parker

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Stuffing Balls

  1. 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
  2. 1 cup bread crumbs
  3. 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
  4. 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  5. 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
  6. 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  7. 1 egg, beaten
  8. 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  9. 1 teaspoon salt
  10. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  11. 1/4 cup chicken broth

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey, bread crumbs, chopped cranberries, onion, celery, parsley, egg, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Step 03

Add chicken broth gradually until the mixture holds together. Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 04

Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 15g