Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a fun and tasty twist on classic stuffing. These little bites combine the warm, comforting flavors of turkey and stuffing with a sweet burst of cranberries, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a snack full of flavor and texture.
I love making these because they’re easy to pop in your mouth and share with friends and family. The cranberries add just the right touch of sweetness to balance the savory turkey and herbs, and when they’re baked until golden, you get a crispy outside with a soft, flavorful inside. I always find myself sneaking a few before anyone else even gets a chance!
These stuffing balls are great on their own as a snack or appetizer, but I like to serve them with a little side of cranberry sauce or a tangy dipping sauce to make each bite even more special. They bring so much cheer to the table, and I think they’re a great way to use up any leftover turkey while adding a festive pop of color and flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Turkey: Leftover turkey works perfectly here. You can swap in cooked chicken or even a plant-based alternative if you want a vegetarian option. Just make sure it’s chopped finely.
Stuffing Mix: You can use store-bought or homemade stuffing. If you prefer gluten-free, look for gluten-free bread stuffing or use cooked quinoa for a twist.
Dried Cranberries: These add a nice sweet tartness. If you don’t have cranberries, dried cherries or raisins can work instead.
Chicken Broth & Eggs: Broth helps bind and moisten the mixture; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian choice. Eggs hold everything together but you can try a flax egg if needed.
How Do You Get Stuffing Balls to Hold Their Shape and Stay Moist?
Getting the perfect shape and texture can be tricky. Here’s how I make sure they won’t fall apart or dry out:
- Mix the eggs and broth first, then add slowly to the dry ingredients while gently folding. The mixture should feel moist but not soggy.
- If it feels crumbly, add a bit more broth—just a teaspoon at a time.
- Firmly shape the balls with your hands; a tight pack helps keep them intact.
- Brushing melted butter or olive oil on top before baking adds moisture and helps create a golden crust.
- Bake at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, turning once if needed, until golden all around.
With these tips, your stuffing balls will be tender inside and crispy outside every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for holding the stuffing balls evenly spaced so they cook well on all sides.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking.
- Large mixing bowl – gives you plenty of room to combine ingredients without making a mess.
- Whisk – handy for beating eggs and mixing broth smoothly into the stuffing.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your ingredient amounts just right for consistent results.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – helps you fold ingredients gently without breaking them apart.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap turkey for cooked chicken or sausage to change the flavor and protein source.
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture contrast.
- Mix in crumbled feta or goat cheese for tangy creaminess that pairs well with cranberries.
- Stir in cooked mushrooms or sautéed onions for added earthiness and moisture.
How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped
- 3 cups stuffing mix (prepared or homemade)
- ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup green onions, finely sliced
- ½ cup chicken broth (more if needed)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon dried sage
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
- Fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh cranberries, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you should budget roughly 40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Main Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped turkey, stuffing mix, chopped dried cranberries, parsley, green onions, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add Moisture and Binder
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and chicken broth. Pour this mixture over your stuffing ingredients and gently fold it together until the mixture holds when pressed. If it feels dry, add a little more broth, one tablespoon at a time.
4. Form and Bake the Stuffing Balls
Use your hands to form the stuffing mixture into 1.5-inch balls. Place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter or olive oil for a golden finish.
5. Bake and Garnish
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Let cool slightly, then garnish with fresh herbs and cranberries if desired.
6. Serve
Serve your cranberry turkey stuffing balls warm as a delightful appetizer or savory side dish — perfect for holiday meals or cozy dinners!
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen turkey, but be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before chopping and adding to the stuffing mixture. This helps keep the texture just right.
Can I Make These Stuffing Balls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mixture and shape the balls, then refrigerate them on the baking sheet for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes holiday prep easier.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep them crispy.
Can I Substitute the Stuffing Mix?
Yes, you can use homemade stuffing or a gluten-free brand if needed. Just make sure it’s finely crumbled so the balls hold together well.
