There’s something undeniably comforting about Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, isn’t there? They bring together the best of holiday flavors in a bite-sized form that’s perfect for sharing—and believe me, these little gems have become a staple in my kitchen during the chilly months. Growing up in southern England, stuffing was always a centerpiece on our family table, but it wasn’t until I moved to the U.S. and started cooking for my own family that I experimented with turning it into these fun, handheld morsels. They’re not just easy to make; they carry a bit of that warmth and togetherness I learned from my mum and grandmother, wrapped up in every bite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
What makes these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls stand out is their perfect balance of savory and sweet, with the tartness of cranberries cutting through the rich turkey and herb-infused stuffing. I love how they’re incredibly versatile—you can serve them as an appetizer at a casual family gathering or as part of a festive spread. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey, which I’m always hunting for after holiday dinners. The bite-sized nature means my kids can dip and nibble without fuss, turning mealtime into a fun, shared experience rather than a chore. These balls are a celebration of comfort food with a fresh twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients—fresh, quality components bring out the best flavors and textures. When I’m making these, I always start with a good homemade or store-bought stuffing mix, ideally one with plenty of herbs and just the right amount of seasoning. The turkey should be tender and moist; leftover roast turkey works beautifully. And don’t skimp on the cranberries—they add that festive pop of flavor that lifts the whole dish. For a bit of moisture and binding, I like to use eggs and a touch of broth.
- 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or finely chopped
- 4 cups prepared stuffing (homemade or quality store-bought)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (or fresh, chopped)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup chicken or turkey broth
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or melted butter, for brushing
Substitutions: If you’re avoiding eggs, a flaxseed “egg” works well as a binder. For a vegetarian spin, substitute turkey with cooked mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 180 per serving (2 balls)
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g (from cranberries)
- Sodium: 350mg (varies with stuffing choice)
Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls That Elevate Your Holiday Feast
Learn how to make delicious Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients—fresh, quality components bring out the best flavors and textures. When I’m making these, I always start with a good homemade or store-bought stuffing mix, ideally one with plenty of herbs and just the right amount of seasoning. The turkey should be tender and moist; leftover roast turkey works beautifully. And don’t skimp on the cranberries—they add that festive pop of flavor that lifts the whole dish. For a bit of moisture and binding, I like to use eggs and a touch of broth.
- 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or finely chopped
- 4 cups prepared stuffing (homemade or quality store-bought)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (or fresh, chopped)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup chicken or turkey broth
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or melted butter, for brushing
Substitutions: If you’re avoiding eggs, a flaxseed “egg” works well as a binder. For a vegetarian spin, substitute turkey with cooked mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey, prepared stuffing, dried cranberries, chopped onion, garlic, sage, and thyme. Mix gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and broth, then pour into the stuffing mixture. Stir until everything is moistened and holds together when pressed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into golf ball–sized balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Brush the tops lightly with olive oil or melted butter to encourage browning.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and heated through. Flip halfway through baking for even color.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed warm but can be served at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey, prepared stuffing, dried cranberries, chopped onion, garlic, sage, and thyme. Mix gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and broth, then pour into the stuffing mixture. Stir until everything is moistened and holds together when pressed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into golf ball–sized balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Brush the tops lightly with olive oil or melted butter to encourage browning.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and heated through. Flip halfway through baking for even color.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed warm but can be served at room temperature.
Tips for Making the Best Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Getting these stuffing balls just right depends on a few simple but crucial steps. I’ve learned over the years that paying attention to moisture levels and seasoning really makes the difference between a crumbly mess and a perfectly cohesive bite. Here are some tips I always follow:
- Use slightly drier stuffing rather than overly wet—it should hold its shape without being soggy.
- Don’t overmix once you add the eggs and broth; gentle folding keeps the texture light.
- Fresh herbs add brightness, but dried work well if fresh aren’t on hand—just adjust quantities accordingly.
- Brushing with butter or oil before baking encourages a beautiful golden crust.
- Test one ball first to check seasoning and texture before shaping and baking the whole batch.
These tips come from both my time in professional kitchens and the cozy chaos of my family’s dinner table. Learn more: Spice Up Your Dinner with a Hot Honey Sweet Potato Beef Bowl
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This dish is incredibly versatile and works beautifully for various occasions—from casual weeknight meals to festive holiday spreads. I love serving these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls as finger food during a relaxed gathering, letting everyone dip and chat. Their compact size makes them ideal for kids, especially my little ones who are always eager to try new things when presented in bite-sized form.
- Serve with a tangy cranberry sauce or a smooth gravy for dipping
- Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a sparkling water with a twist of lemon
- Accompany with a fresh green salad featuring apples and toasted pecans for a seasonal touch
- Add roasted root vegetables or a simple mashed potato side for a heartier meal
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends, these stuffing balls bring a sense of warmth and cheer to the table. They’re proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy leftovers just as much as the fresh dish. I often make a double batch to have on hand for quick snacks or easy lunches. Here’s how I keep them tasting their best:
- Store cooled stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag; keep for up to 2 months
- Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes from refrigerated, or 15-20 minutes if frozen, until warmed through
- Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the texture rubbery—oven reheating keeps the crust crisp
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
The main ingredients for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
The total time to make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time?
Yes, Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
I hope these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls bring a little extra joy and ease to your kitchen, just as they have to mine. They’re a wonderful way to celebrate tradition while keeping things simple and accessible. If you give them a try, I’d love to hear how they turn out for you—after all, cooking is a journey we’re on together!
