Name: Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 2 cups prepared stuffing (homemade or store-bought); 1/2 cup dried cranberries (or fresh, chopped); 1 large egg; 1/4 cup grated onion (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing); Turkey gravy or cranberry sauce, for serving

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Cranberry turkey stuffing balls are a cozy, flavorful twist on classic holiday flavors — tender, savory, and packed with comforting goodness. Each bite combines juicy turkey, sweet-tart cranberries, and herby stuffing, baked into perfectly golden little bites. I love making these as a fun appetizer, side dish, or even a creative way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings all the best parts of a holiday meal together in one bite-sized package. The combination of turkey, stuffing, and cranberries delivers the perfect balance of savory and sweet, with a crisp exterior and a soft, moist center. They’re easy to make, great for meal prep, and ideal for parties, potlucks, or anytime I want to bring a little holiday comfort to the table. Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground turkey
Prepared stuffing (homemade or store-bought)
Dried cranberries (or fresh, chopped)
Egg
Grated onion (optional, for added moisture and flavor)
Salt and black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped
Olive oil or melted butter (for brushing before baking)
Turkey gravy or cranberry sauce (for serving)

Directions

Preheat the oven: I set my oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, I mix together the ground turkey, stuffing, cranberries, egg, parsley, and a little salt and pepper. If the mixture feels too dry, I add a splash of broth or a spoonful of melted butter.
Shape into balls: I use my hands or a scoop to form the mixture into 1½- to 2-inch balls and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush and bake: I brush the tops lightly with olive oil or melted butter, then bake for about 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve: I serve the stuffing balls warm with a side of turkey gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12–14 stuffing balls. It takes around 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake, for a total time of roughly 40 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch, or diced apple for a sweet, fruity touch. I’ve also swapped the turkey for ground chicken or sausage when I want something a little different. For a festive twist, I drizzle them with a touch of cranberry glaze before serving.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. They also freeze well — I freeze them on a baking sheet, then store them in a bag and reheat straight from frozen when needed. Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

FAQs

Can I use leftover turkey and stuffing?

Yes, I often make these using chopped leftover turkey and cooked stuffing — I just mix them with an egg and cranberries to help everything stick together.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. I form the balls and refrigerate them uncooked for up to a day, then bake them when ready to serve.

Can I air-fry these instead of baking?

Yes, I air-fry them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp.

What should I serve with these?

I like to serve them with gravy, cranberry sauce, or even a creamy mustard dip. They also make a great side with mashed potatoes and vegetables.

How do I keep them from drying out?

I make sure not to overbake them and add a bit of broth or melted butter to the mix if the stuffing is on the dry side.

Conclusion

Cranberry turkey stuffing balls are a fun, festive, and flavorful way to enjoy the comforting tastes of the holidays. I love how easy they are to make, how beautifully they bake up, and how they bring together everything I love about a Thanksgiving meal in one delicious bite. Whether I’m serving them as appetizers, sides, or snacks, they always disappear fast.