Irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

Name: Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground turkey; 1 cup dried unsweetened cranberries; 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned); 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1 cup celery, chopped; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried); 2 teaspoons fresh sage (or 1 teaspoon dried); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

October 10, 2025

Updated:

October 10, 2025

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Cranberry turkey stuffing balls are the delightful little bites that can turn any gathering into a feast. Imagine savory turkey mingling with sweet-tart cranberries, all wrapped up in a golden, crispy exterior. The aroma wafts through your kitchen like a warm hug, promising a flavor experience that dances on your palate.

As the holidays approach, these delectable cranberry turkey stuffing balls remind me of family gatherings filled with laughter and love. They are perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any occasion that calls for delicious bites and good cheer. You’ll be counting down the days until you can savor these scrumptious morsels again.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Cranberry turkey stuffing balls are easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy holiday cooks

The combination of savory and sweet flavors will impress your guests
Their golden-brown color makes them visually appealing on any platter

Versatile enough to be served as an appetizer or side dish, they fit into any meal perfectly

One year, I made cranberry turkey stuffing balls for Thanksgiving, and my uncle went back for seconds… and thirds! It seems they were a hit.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Turkey: Use lean ground turkey for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Cranberries: Dried cranberries add a touch of sweetness; choose unsweetened for a more balanced flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture together while adding texture.

Onion: Finely chop onion; it adds moisture and depth to the stuffing mixture.
Celery: Chopped celery provides crunch and freshness, complementing the other ingredients beautifully.
Eggs: Eggs act as a binder; use large eggs for best results in holding everything together.

Herbs (Thyme and Sage): Fresh or dried thyme and sage enhance the aromatic quality; fresh herbs elevate the flavors.
Salt and Pepper: Season generously to taste; these basic staples really bring out all the flavors.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps achieve that lovely golden color when baking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you chop veggies.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté chopped onions and celery until soft, about 5-7 minutes, releasing their lovely aroma.

Mix It All Together: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, sautéed vegetables, cranberries, breadcrumbs, eggs, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.

Form the Balls: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into small balls (about 1-2 inches). Place them on a greased baking sheet evenly spaced apart.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. The enticing smell will fill your kitchen!

Serve Warm and Enjoy!: Let cool slightly before serving. These cranberry turkey stuffing balls are best enjoyed warm with your favorite dipping sauce or gravy!

Now you’re ready to impress family and friends with these delightful cranberry turkey stuffing balls! Each bite is packed with flavors that scream comfort food while delivering that festive flair we all love during celebrations.

You Must Know

These cranberry turkey stuffing balls are perfect for Thanksgiving or any cozy gathering
The sweet and savory blend creates a delightful balance that pairs beautifully with turkey
Plus, they’re easy to make ahead of time, so you can enjoy the festivities stress-free

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the turkey and sautéing onions and celery before combining them with dried cranberries and spices. This keeps your flavors vibrant and ensures everything cooks evenly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the cranberries for cherries or add nuts for extra crunch. Experimenting with spices like sage or rosemary can elevate these stuffing balls to a whole new level.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, preserving their delightful texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve perfectly crispy outsides, bake at a higher temperature initially before lowering it
Avoid overmixing; this keeps them tender and light
Letting them rest before serving enhances their flavor development and texture

Sharing my first experience making cranberry turkey stuffing balls brings a smile to my face. My family devoured them, asking for seconds while I secretly noted their approval!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use leftover turkey for these stuffing balls?

Absolutely! Leftover turkey adds great flavor and reduces waste.

How long do cranberry turkey stuffing balls last in the fridge?

They can last up to three days if stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I freeze cranberry turkey stuffing balls?

Yes, freeze them uncooked or cooked for up to three months without losing quality.

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