The holiday season often leaves us with a delightful dilemma: what to do with all the delicious leftovers? Instead of another turkey sandwich, imagine transforming those classic flavors into a brand-new, bite-sized creation. Consequently, these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect solution. They encapsulate the very essence of a Thanksgiving meal—savory turkey, herby stuffing, and a tart burst of cranberry—all rolled into one convenient and irresistible ball. Furthermore, this recipe is not just for leftovers; you can easily make it from scratch as a standout appetizer for any party or gathering. It’s a simple, creative, and incredibly tasty way to enjoy your favorite holiday flavors any time of year.
Why You’ll Love These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this recipe. First and foremost, the combination of flavors is simply unbeatable. The savory depth of the turkey and stuffing provides a comforting base, while the cranberries add a bright, zesty counterpoint that cuts through the richness. As a result, each bite is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tart. In addition, these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are incredibly versatile. You can serve them as a hot appetizer with a side of gravy for dipping, or you can place them alongside your main course as a unique alternative to traditional stuffing. Another key point is their convenience. They are a fantastic make-ahead dish, which ultimately frees up your time and oven space on a busy cooking day. Not to mention, they are the absolute best way to ensure no holiday leftovers go to waste, transforming them into something exciting and new.
Print
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls: The 10 Ultimate Steps to Holiday Perfection
Savory, herby, and sweet, these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls combine leftover turkey, stuffing, and tart cranberries into the perfect bite-sized appetizer or side dish for the holidays.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 18 balls 1x
Ingredients
2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped
2 cups prepared stuffing (leftover or from a mix)
1/2 cup dried or chopped fresh cranberries
1/2 cup finely chopped celery
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/4 cup chicken or turkey broth
1 teaspoon chopped fresh sage (or 1/3 tsp dried)
1/2 teaspoon chopped thyme (or 1/6 tsp dried)
1/2 teaspoon chopped rosemary (or 1/6 tsp dried)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Cooking spray or oil for baking
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped turkey and prepared stuffing.
3. Add chopped onion and celery; mix gently to distribute evenly.
4. Fold in cranberries until evenly incorporated.
5. Sprinkle in sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
6. In a small bowl, whisk the egg and stir in broth.
7. Pour egg mixture into stuffing mixture and mix until evenly moist.
8. Form mixture into balls using about 2 tablespoons each. Roll tightly and place on baking sheet.
9. Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and heated through.
10. Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and serve with gravy or cranberry sauce if desired.
Notes
Use leftover turkey and stuffing, or make from scratch using boxed mix and cooked turkey breast.
For best texture, don’t overmix the ingredients—combine until just moist.
Make ahead: Form balls and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Add chopped nuts, sausage, or cheese for flavor variations.
To reheat, bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or warm in an air fryer to keep them crispy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 balls
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
The Key Ingredients for Perfect Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. To achieve the best results, it’s important to understand the role each component plays. Ultimately, the quality of your ingredients will directly impact the final taste and texture of your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls.
Turkey and Stuffing Base
The foundation of this recipe is, of course, turkey and stuffing. You can use leftover roasted turkey, finely chopped, for the most authentic flavor. However, cooked ground turkey also works wonderfully as a substitute. For the stuffing, both leftover homemade stuffing and a high-quality packaged stuffing mix will do the trick. If you’re starting with a dry mix, simply prepare it according to the package directions first. For a different flavor profile, consider using a cornbread stuffing base, like our popular Cornbread Stuffing with Bacon recipe, which adds a wonderful sweetness and texture.
The Cranberry Connection
Cranberries are the star ingredient that elevates these stuffing balls. You have a few options here. Dried cranberries are the easiest choice, as they provide a chewy texture and concentrated sweetness. On the other hand, finely chopped fresh or frozen cranberries will lend a tarter, brighter flavor that bursts in your mouth. If you choose fresh cranberries, you might want to add a teaspoon of sugar to the mixture to balance their tartness. Whole cranberry sauce can also be used, but be mindful to drain any excess liquid to avoid making the mixture too wet.
Binders and Seasonings
To hold everything together, you’ll need effective binders. An egg is essential, as it provides the structure needed to keep the balls from falling apart during baking. In addition, a small amount of chicken or turkey broth adds necessary moisture, ensuring the inside of the balls stays tender and doesn’t dry out. For seasonings, classic holiday herbs are the way to go. Finely chopped fresh sage, thyme, and rosemary are ideal. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones will work just as well; simply use about one-third of the amount called for fresh herbs.
Step-by-Step Instructions To Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Following these 10 simple steps will guarantee perfect Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls every time. This process is straightforward and designed for success, even for beginner cooks.
- Preheat and Prepare: First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Combine the Main Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add your cooked, chopped turkey and the prepared stuffing. Use a fork or your hands to gently break up the stuffing and mix it evenly with the turkey.
- Add the Aromatics: Next, add finely chopped onion and celery to the bowl. These aromatics provide a classic flavor base and a subtle crunch.
- Incorporate the Cranberries: Gently fold in your cranberries. Whether you are using dried or fresh, distribute them evenly throughout the mixture for a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Add Seasonings: Now, sprinkle in your herbs—sage, thyme, and rosemary—along with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix gently until the seasonings are well incorporated.
- Prepare the Binder: In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk the egg until it’s lightly beaten. Afterwards, stir in the chicken or turkey broth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the egg and broth mixture over the turkey and stuffing mixture. Using a spatula or your hands, mix everything together until it’s just combined and uniformly moist. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the balls tough.
- Form the Balls: Scoop out portions of the mixture, about two tablespoons each, and roll them between your palms to form compact balls. Place the formed Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and heated through. For extra crispiness, you can turn them over halfway through the baking time.
- Serve and Enjoy: Finally, remove the Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They are delicious on their own or served warm with a side of gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping.
Tips and Variations for the Best Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
While the basic recipe is fantastic, there are many ways to customize these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls to your liking. A few simple tweaks can introduce new flavors and textures, making this recipe a new favorite you’ll return to again and again. These tips also help with preparation and storage.
Make-Ahead Magic
To save time, you can prepare the mixture and form the balls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply arrange them on the baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, just pop them into the preheated oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Flavor Variations
Don’t be afraid to experiment with add-ins. For instance, a quarter cup of chopped pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch. For a richer, more savory flavor, try adding cooked and crumbled sausage or bacon to the mix. Additionally, a bit of shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese can create a deliciously cheesy version. If you love the combination of fruit and meat, you might also enjoy our recipe for Cranberry Apple Stuffing, which can serve as an excellent base for these balls.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffing balls are the ultimate party appetizer. Arrange them on a platter with a small bowl of warm turkey gravy or leftover cranberry sauce for dipping. They also make a fantastic addition to a holiday meal, served alongside other favorites. For a comprehensive list of accompaniments, check out our guide to the top 25 Thanksgiving side dishes.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, they can be quickly reheated in an air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispy exterior.
The Nutritional Benefits of Key Ingredients
Beyond being delicious, these stuffing balls contain ingredients with notable health benefits. For example, turkey is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. According to the Mayo Clinic, choosing lean proteins like turkey is a key part of a healthy diet. In addition, the star ingredient, cranberries, are packed with powerful nutrients. As noted by Healthline, cranberries are rich in antioxidants, particularly proanthocyanidins, which can help prevent certain bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract walls. Consequently, incorporating these ingredients makes your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls a treat you can feel good about eating.
Conclusion About Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
In conclusion, this recipe for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls offers a creative and delicious way to enjoy classic holiday flavors. They are not only simple to prepare but also incredibly versatile, serving equally well as a party appetizer or a unique side dish. By combining savory turkey, herby stuffing, and tart cranberries, you create a perfectly balanced bite that is sure to impress your family and friends. Ultimately, these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect answer for using leftovers or for when you simply crave that festive taste. Give this recipe a try and discover your new favorite way to celebrate the season’s flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Can I use a store-bought stuffing mix?
Absolutely! A boxed stuffing mix works perfectly for this recipe. Simply prepare the stuffing according to the instructions on the package before mixing it with the other ingredients. This is a great shortcut that saves time without sacrificing flavor.
How do I prevent the stuffing balls from falling apart?
The key to keeping your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls intact is the binder and the right amount of moisture. Ensure you use an egg, as it provides the necessary structure. If your mixture feels too dry and crumbly, add a little extra broth, one tablespoon at a time, until it holds together when pressed. Also, be sure to pack the balls firmly when you roll them.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free. Use your favorite gluten-free stuffing mix or gluten-free bread cubes as the base. Ensure that your broth is also certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a simple and successful conversion.
