Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect bite-sized twist on a holiday classic. Juicy ground turkey, festive cranberries, and herby stuffing are baked into golden, savory balls that are ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even a cozy family dinner. They’re easy to make ahead, freezer-friendly, and guaranteed to disappear fast!

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground turkey

• 3 cups prepared stuffing (homemade or boxed, cooled)

• ½ cup dried cranberries (or fresh, chopped)

• 1 egg, lightly beaten

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional, for binding and flavor)

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing or drizzling)

Directions

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

2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, prepared stuffing, cranberries, egg, cheese, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.

3. Using your hands or a cookie scoop, shape the mixture into balls (about golf ball-sized). Place on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Brush or drizzle lightly with olive oil for extra crispiness.

5. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

6. Serve warm with gravy, cranberry sauce, or as part of a holiday platter.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: About 16–18 balls

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy twist: Add cubes of mozzarella inside each ball for a melty surprise.

• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free stuffing mix.

• Sweet & savory: Swap dried cranberries for chopped dried apricots or raisins.

• Mini appetizer version: Make bite-sized balls and serve with toothpicks at parties.

Storage & Reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Freeze on a baking tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave for 30–60 seconds.

FAQs

Q: Can I use leftover turkey instead of ground turkey?
A: Yes! Just finely chop or shred it and mix with the stuffing and cranberries.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely — shape the balls, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: What can I serve with them?
A: They pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, gravy, or cranberry sauce.

Conclusion

These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a fun, flavorful way to serve holiday classics in a new form. With their juicy turkey, tart cranberries, and comforting stuffing, they’re a hit for festive dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep. Easy, delicious, and festive — you’ll be making them year after year!

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

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These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls combine juicy ground turkey, tangy cranberries, and herby stuffing into bite-sized delights. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they’re perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a fun holiday main. Serve them with gravy or cranberry sauce for the ultimate festive flavor.

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: About 18 stuffing balls
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• For the Stuffing Balls:
• 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
• 2 cups prepared stuffing (homemade or boxed)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries (or fresh chopped cranberries)
• 1/4 cup finely diced onion
• 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 tsp dried sage (or poultry seasoning)
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• Optional for Serving:
• Turkey gravy
• Cranberry sauce

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, stuffing, cranberries, onion, celery, egg, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined (don’t overwork the meat).
3. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture and roll into balls. Place on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
5. Serve warm with gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping.

Notes

• Great for using holiday leftovers (turkey + stuffing!).
• Make ahead and freeze raw balls on a tray, then bake straight from frozen (add ~5 extra minutes).
• Swap dried cranberries for chopped apples or chestnuts for a different twist.
• For extra crispiness, brush lightly with melted butter or olive oil before baking.