Cranberry turkey stuffing balls are a festive and flavorful way to enjoy the best holiday flavors in one bite. These savory little balls combine tender turkey, classic stuffing, and tart cranberries, baked until golden and served as the perfect Thanksgiving or Christmas appetizer. They’re bite-sized, easy to make, and ideal for parties, potlucks, or as a fun twist on leftovers.
Instead of serving traditional stuffing in a dish, these stuffing balls offer a creative, handheld option that’s great for snacking or entertaining. The sweet-tart cranberries balance the savory turkey and herby stuffing, making them irresistible crowd-pleasers. Whether you serve them as appetizers, side dishes, or even pack them in lunchboxes, cranberry turkey stuffing balls are sure to become a holiday favorite.
Ingredients
- 3 cups prepared stuffing (homemade or boxed mix)
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or finely chopped
- 1 cup dried cranberries (or fresh chopped cranberries)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup chicken or turkey broth (as needed for moisture)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust depending on stuffing saltiness)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for brushing)
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine stuffing, shredded turkey, cranberries, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in beaten eggs. Add broth a little at a time until the mixture holds together but isn’t soggy.
Step 3: Shape into Balls
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture and roll into balls.
- Place on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake
- Brush with melted butter for a golden finish.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until firm and lightly browned.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve warm with cranberry sauce or gravy for dipping.
Variations
- Cheesy Version: Add ½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the mixture.
- Sausage Stuffing Balls: Swap turkey for cooked sausage for a different holiday twist.
- Glazed Bites: Brush with a maple or honey glaze before baking.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip turkey and double the cranberries and stuffing.
Cooking Notes
- The mixture should be moist enough to hold shape but not wet. Adjust with broth or extra stuffing as needed.
- Dried cranberries give sweetness, while fresh cranberries add tart pops of flavor.
- If mixture feels sticky, chill in the fridge for 15 minutes before shaping.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as holiday appetizers with cranberry sauce or gravy for dipping.
- Plate alongside roast turkey and mashed potatoes for a festive meal.
- Add to charcuterie boards for a fun, savory-sweet bite.
- Perfect for game-day snacking during the holiday season.
💡 Tips
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized stuffing balls.
- Make ahead and refrigerate unbaked balls for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
- Freeze baked stuffing balls for up to 2 months; reheat in the oven.
- If reheating, cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out.
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per ball, approx. 20 servings)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 190mg
❓ FAQs
Q1: Can I use leftover Thanksgiving stuffing?
- Yes! Leftover stuffing works perfectly—just add broth if it’s too dry.
Q2: Can I make these in an air fryer?
- Yes. Air fry at 375°F for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway for even crisping.
Q3: Can I substitute chicken for turkey?
- Absolutely. Cooked chicken works just as well.
Q4: Can I prepare these ahead of time?
- Yes. Assemble and refrigerate unbaked balls overnight, then bake fresh.
Q5: What dipping sauces go well?
- Cranberry sauce, turkey gravy, honey mustard, or even ranch dressing.
Conclusion
Cranberry turkey stuffing balls are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy classic holiday ingredients in bite-sized form. With juicy turkey, herby stuffing, and sweet-tart cranberries, they’re the perfect appetizer, side dish, or party snack. Easy to make, versatile to customize, and crowd-pleasing in every way, this recipe is sure to become a staple at your Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations.