Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Name: Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 balls
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 1 cup dried cranberries; 2 cups bread crumbs; 1/2 cup chopped onion; 1/2 cup chopped celery; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried sage; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup chicken broth

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Deliciously savory and slightly sweet, these Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy family dinner.

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2025-12-18T14:28:27.010Z

These Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls combine the best of traditional stuffing flavors with a modern twist. Perfectly seasoned turkey, tart cranberries, and aromatic herbs come together to create a dish that's both comforting and festive.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful balance of savory turkey and sweet cranberries
Easy to make and great for feeding a crowd
Perfect as an appetizer or side dish during the holidays

      

The Perfect Holiday Treat

Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful addition to any holiday feast. Their unique combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberries brings a festive flavor that complements traditional holiday dishes beautifully. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer at a gathering or as a side dish during dinner, they're sure to impress your guests and family alike.

These stuffing balls not only taste great but also add a pop of color to your table. The vibrant red of the cranberries against the golden-brown exterior creates an inviting presentation. Plus, their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for guests to enjoy while mingling, ensuring they are a hit at any holiday celebration.

Easy to Prepare

One of the best aspects of these stuffing balls is how simple they are to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. The use of ground turkey makes them a lighter option compared to traditional meatballs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy them without the guilt.

These stuffing balls can be made ahead of time and frozen for later use, making them an excellent choice for busy holiday schedules. Simply prepare the mixture, shape the balls, and freeze them until you’re ready to bake. This allows you to enjoy the delicious flavors of home-cooked food while saving precious time during the holidays.

Versatile Serving Options

Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions beyond the holiday season. They can be served as a main dish with a side salad or as part of a buffet spread at parties. Their delightful flavor pairs well with a variety of dipping sauces, such as cranberry sauce or a tangy yogurt dip, providing options for guests with different tastes.

Additionally, these stuffing balls can easily be adapted to suit dietary preferences. For a gluten-free option, simply substitute the bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavors according to your liking, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this delicious treat.

Ingredients

For the Stuffing Balls

1 pound ground turkey
1 cup dried cranberries
2 cups bread crumbs
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried sage
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
1/4 cup chicken broth

Mix well and shape into balls.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, dried cranberries, bread crumbs, onion, celery, parsley, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.

Add Eggs and Broth

Add the eggs and chicken broth to the mixture, and mix until well combined.

Shape the Balls

Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Serve warm as an appetizer or side dish.

Tips for the Best Stuffing Balls

To ensure your Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are moist and flavorful, don’t skip the chicken broth. It adds moisture and depth to the mixture, resulting in a tender texture. Additionally, allowing the mixture to sit for a few minutes before shaping the balls gives the bread crumbs time to absorb the liquid, enhancing the overall flavor.

For added flavor, consider sautéing the onions and celery before mixing them into the turkey. This step caramelizes the vegetables, intensifying their sweetness and creating a richer taste in the final dish. Don’t hesitate to taste the mixture before baking to adjust seasonings as needed.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing them properly is essential to maintain their flavor and texture. Allow the stuffing balls to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be stored for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

For longer storage, these stuffing balls freeze beautifully. Lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze them individually, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. To cook from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfect results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and form the balls, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ Can I freeze the stuffing balls?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before baking. Just bake them directly from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking.

→ What can I serve these with?

They pair well with cranberry sauce, gravy, or as part of a holiday buffet.

→ Can I substitute the turkey?

Yes, you can substitute the turkey with ground chicken or even a vegetarian alternative.