Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a fun twist on classic stuffing, packed with tender turkey, tangy cranberries, and cozy herbs all rolled into bite-sized bites. They’re crispy on the outside and soft and flavorful inside, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want a little comfort food with a festive flair.
I love making these because they’re easy to handle and great for sharing. Plus, the cranberries add a nice pop of sweetness and color that brightens up the whole dish. I often make a big batch and keep some for snacking throughout the week—they’re just that good!
Serve these with a dab of creamy gravy or your favorite dipping sauce, and they become an instant favorite at the table. It’s one of those recipes that brings everyone together and gets people talking. If you’re like me, you’ll find yourself reaching for one (or two) even before the main meal is served!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey: Using cooked turkey adds great flavor and protein. Leftover roast turkey or even cooked chicken works well if turkey isn’t available.
Stuffing mix: You can use store-bought or homemade stuffing. If gluten-free, opt for a gluten-free bread or gluten-free stuffing mix.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries give a nice tart pop, but dried cranberries (soaked in warm water) are a handy and sweet alternative.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and thyme brighten the flavors. If fresh isn’t on hand, dried herbs work—just use less to keep the taste balanced.
Broth & Egg: Chicken broth keeps the mixture moist, and egg helps bind the balls. For a vegetarian twist, use vegetable broth and a flax or chia egg.
How Do You Keep Stuffing Balls from Falling Apart?
Getting the right texture is key so the balls hold together without being soggy.
- Mix the stuffing and turkey first, then slowly add broth to moisten. It should be damp, not mushy.
- Add the beaten egg at the end to bind it all. If you skip this step, the balls may crumble.
- Use your hands to firmly shape the balls; pressing gently but firmly helps them hold their shape.
- If the mixture feels loose, add a bit more stuffing crumbs or a small amount of breadcrumbs.
Cooking method also matters: pan-frying creates a crispy outer crust that holds well. If baking, brushing with oil helps crisp the surface and keep the balls together.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining all the ingredients without making a mess.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps you get the right balance of herbs, broth, and egg.
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper – makes baking easy and cleanup quick.
- Nonstick skillet – great for pan-frying the balls to a crispy golden brown.
- Spatula or tongs – for turning the balls gently without breaking them.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap turkey for cooked chicken or duck to change the flavor profile while keeping it tender.
- Add crumbled cooked sausage for a spicy, meaty boost that pairs well with the sweet cranberries.
- Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and earthiness.
- Include shredded cheese such as sharp cheddar or gouda for a melty, rich twist inside the balls.
How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, finely shredded or chopped
- 2 cups stuffing mix (prepared or homemade, cubed or crumbled)
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries (if dried, rehydrate in warm water)
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or as needed for moisture)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or melted butter, for frying or baking
- Fresh thyme or parsley sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 10 minutes to cook if pan-frying or about 25 minutes in the oven if baking. If you plan to prepare a simple cranberry sauce alongside, add a few extra minutes. Overall, you can enjoy this festive dish in about 30 to 40 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey, stuffing mix, cranberries, chopped parsley, onion, garlic, and celery if you’re using it. Add the dried sage, thyme, and sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together to evenly distribute the flavors.
2. Add Moisture and Binding:
Slowly pour in the beaten egg and chicken broth a little at a time, stirring gently. You want the mixture to hold together but not be too wet. The stuffing ball mixture should be moist enough that you can form it into balls that keep their shape easily.
3. Shape the Stuffing Balls:
With clean hands, take portions of the mixture and shape them into golf ball-sized balls. Place each ball on a tray or plate, ready for cooking.
4. Cook the Stuffing Balls:
You have two simple ways to cook these tasty balls:
- Pan-frying: Heat olive oil or melted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the balls and fry them, turning every few minutes, until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the stuffing balls on it. Lightly brush the balls with olive oil or melted butter to help them brown. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re beautifully golden.
5. Prepare a Simple Cranberry Sauce (Optional):
While the stuffing balls cook, you can warm extra cranberries with a pinch of sugar and a bit of orange zest for a fresh, tangy sauce that pairs wonderfully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your cranberry turkey stuffing balls warm, garnished with fresh thyme or parsley sprigs. Spoon some cranberry sauce on the side or over the balls for an extra burst of flavor. These bite-sized delights make a perfect appetizer or side dish and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cooked turkey as long as it’s fully thawed before mixing. Thaw it safely in the fridge overnight and pat dry to remove excess moisture for the best texture.
Can I Make These Stuffing Balls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and shape the stuffing balls in advance, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes them great for meal prep or holiday hosting.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cranberry turkey stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or a skillet to maintain their crispy exterior.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying?
Yes! Baking at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, is a healthier alternative that still yields deliciously crispy and golden stuffing balls.
