If you love the festive flavors of Thanksgiving but want something fresh and fun to serve, this Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe is pure magic. Imagine tender turkey, savory stuffing, and sweet bursts of dried cranberries packed into perfect little bites that are crispy on the outside and soft inside. These delightful morsels bring all the classic holiday tastes together in a way that’s easy to share and enjoy anytime you crave that comforting, homey feeling.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a key role in aroma, flavor, and texture. From the juicy turkey to the crunch of celery and the subtle sweetness of cranberries, every element combines for a mouthwatering experience.
- 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped: Adds hearty protein and classic savory flavor from holiday leftovers or freshly cooked turkey.
- 3 cups prepared stuffing (cooled): The base that brings moistness and seasoned breadiness essential to these stuffing balls.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: Adds bursts of juicy sweetness that balance the savory components beautifully.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery: Provides a fresh, crisp texture and subtle earthiness.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Brings gentle warmth and a touch of natural sweetness when baked.
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten: Acts as a binder to help hold the stuffing balls together perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances overall flavor and rounds out the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Imparts a subtle herbal note reminiscent of classic stuffing.
- 1/4 cup turkey or chicken broth: Keeps the mixture moist and ensures the balls hold shape when baked.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for brushing): Creates a golden, flavorful crust on top but can be skipped for a lighter version.
How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 375°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This sets the stage for perfectly baked stuffing balls with a lovely golden finish.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, gently mix together the finely chopped turkey, prepared stuffing, dried cranberries, celery, onion, eggs, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir carefully until everything blends well without turning mushy. The key here is to maintain some texture so each bite offers a delightful variety.
Step 3: Adjust Moisture
If the mixture feels too dry and crumbly, add turkey or chicken broth gradually. The goal is to have a slightly sticky mixture that holds together when pressed in your hands, which will help keep your stuffing balls intact during baking.
Step 4: Shape the Stuffing Balls
Using your hands or a scoop, form the mixture into 12 to 14 balls, about 2 inches in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet to ensure they cook evenly and get that perfect crunch on all sides.
Step 5: Optional Butter Brush and Bake
If you love an extra touch of richness and a golden crust, brush the tops of the stuffing balls with melted butter. Then pop them into the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Bake until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and are heated through, making them irresistible.
How to Serve Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Garnishes
These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe favorites shine with simple but thoughtful garnishes. A drizzle of warm gravy or a spoonful of tangy cranberry sauce on the side enhances their savory-sweet balance and elevates their presentation for guests or family meals.
Side Dishes
Pair these stuffing balls with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables like brussels sprouts or carrots to add fresh and vibrant complements. Mashed potatoes or a creamy mac and cheese also match perfectly for a comforting, crowd-pleasing plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or casual gatherings, display the stuffing balls in mini serving bowls with toothpicks for easy picking. You could also stack them on a festive platter and sprinkle fresh herbs on top, making them a centerpiece-worthy appetizer everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe bites, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They stay flavorful and maintain great texture when reheated gently.
Freezing
These stuffing balls freeze beautifully. Place the formed but uncooked balls on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months and bake just as well straight from the freezer with an extra few minutes in the oven.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through to recapture that freshly baked crunch and tender inside. Microwave reheating is possible but may result in softer shells.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of turkey for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken works just as well if you don’t have turkey on hand. The flavors will still meld beautifully, and you’ll get a similarly delicious result.
Do I have to use dried cranberries, or can I substitute fresh?
Dried cranberries are preferred because they hold their shape and impart concentrated sweetness. Fresh cranberries tend to be tart and release too much moisture, which may affect the texture.
Can I make these stuffing balls vegan or vegetarian?
To adapt for a vegan or vegetarian diet, use vegetable broth, omit turkey, and replace eggs with a flax or chia egg alternative. Consider using a plant-based stuffing and adding hearty vegetables or beans for protein.
How do I prevent the stuffing balls from falling apart?
The key is ensuring the mixture is moist enough to hold together. Adding broth gradually and using beaten eggs as a binder helps. Pressing firmly when shaping and baking at the right temperature also ensures they stay intact.
Are these stuffing balls suitable for freezing after baking?
Yes! Once baked and cooled completely, you can freeze the stuffing balls in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe is such a cheerful crowd-pleaser that turns holiday classics into bite-sized joy. Whether you’re looking to use up leftovers or just craving a cozy snack, give this recipe a try — it’s guaranteed to become one of your new favorites to share with family and friends!
Print
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12–14 stuffing balls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious and festive way to use up holiday leftovers. Combining tender turkey, savory stuffing, and sweet dried cranberries, these bite-sized treats are perfect as an appetizer or snack. They are baked until golden brown and can be served warm with gravy or cranberry sauce for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Stuffing Balls Mixture
- 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped
- 3 cups prepared stuffing (cooled)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 cup turkey or chicken broth
For Brushing (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the chopped turkey, cooled prepared stuffing, dried cranberries, finely chopped celery and onion, lightly beaten eggs, salt, pepper, and dried thyme until fully mixed.
- Adjust Mixture Consistency: If the mixture feels dry and crumbly, gradually add turkey or chicken broth one tablespoon at a time and mix gently until the mixture holds together when pressed.
- Form Stuffing Balls: Using your hands or a scoop, shape the mixture into 12 to 14 balls about 2 inches in diameter and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush with Butter (Optional): For a golden, flavorful crust, lightly brush the tops of the stuffing balls with melted butter before baking.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are heated through and have a beautiful golden brown exterior.
- Serve Warm: Serve the cranberry turkey stuffing balls warm alongside your favorite gravy or cranberry sauce for an extra festive touch.
Notes
- Great use for holiday leftovers, making mealtime more exciting and minimizing waste.
- Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator or frozen before baking for convenience.
- Chicken can be substituted for turkey if desired.
- For a crispier texture, consider broiling for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking time.
