Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a fun and tasty twist on classic holiday stuffing. They mix together the comforting flavors of seasoned turkey and bread stuffing with bursts of tart cranberry, all shaped into easy little balls. These bite-sized treats have a crispy outside and a soft, flavorful inside that everyone loves.
I like making these because they’re simple to grab and share at any gathering, and they add a pop of color to the table with those bright cranberries. A little tip I’ve found helpful is to make sure the mixture is just the right texture—not too wet—so the balls hold together nicely when you bake them.
My favorite way to serve these is as a fun side dish during holiday dinners or even as a snack when friends stop by. They’re a nice change from the usual stuffing and bring a little holiday cheer in every bite. Plus, they’re great warm or at room temperature, which makes party hosting a bit easier for me!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Turkey: Using leftover or rotisserie turkey works great here. If you don’t have turkey, cooked chicken is a good swap. Just chop it up finely so it mixes well with the bread.
Stuffing Bread Cubes: I prefer herb-seasoned bread cubes for added flavor. If you can’t find prepared stuffing, use day-old bread toasted and torn into cubes, then add your own herbs.
Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries add tartness and texture. Dried cranberries also work but soak them in a little warm water or juice to soften before mixing.
Herbs and Seasonings: Sage and thyme bring classic holiday vibes. Fresh parsley brightens the mix. Feel free to use fresh herbs if available or adjust dried amounts to taste.
Binders (Eggs and Broth): Eggs help the balls hold shape, while broth moistens the stuffing. If you want a vegetarian option, try a flax egg and veggie broth instead.
How Do I Make Stuffing Balls Hold Together Without Falling Apart?
Getting the right texture is key so the balls don’t crumble. Here’s how I make sure they stick well:
- Mix eggs and broth well before adding to the dry ingredients; this helps even moisture distribution.
- Let the mixture rest 5 minutes to let the bread soak up the liquid fully.
- If the mixture is too wet and sticky, add a tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs or more bread cubes to balance it out.
- Form the balls firmly but don’t squeeze too hard, or they become dense instead of light.
- Brush with oil or butter before baking to get a crisp outside that holds the shape.
Following these tips will help you get nicely shaped balls that bake crisp outside and stay soft and tender inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I find large bowls helpful for combining all the ingredients easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate measuring of liquids and seasonings.
- Cookie scoop or your hands – to portion the mixture into evenly-sized balls.
- Baking sheet – a sturdy, rimmed sheet works best for even baking.
- Parchment paper or cooking spray – to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Pastry brush or spoon – to lightly brush the balls with butter or oil before baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheese: Add shredded cheese like mozzarella, Swiss, or cheddar for gooey goodness inside.
- Vegetables: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, chopped bell peppers, or walnuts for extra flavor and texture.
- Spices: Toss in a pinch of rosemary, sage, or paprika to customize the aroma and taste.
- Meat: Substitute turkey with cooked sausage or ham for a different savory twist.
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped
- 4 cups stuffing bread cubes (preferably seasoned or herb)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, roughly chopped (or dried cranberries, chopped and rehydrated)
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup green onions or leeks, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Binding and Flavor:
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup chicken or turkey broth
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor and helping bind)
For Baking and Garnish:
- Olive oil or melted butter for brushing or drizzling
- Fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme sprigs) for garnish
- Extra cranberries or cranberry sauce for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and around 25-30 minutes of baking time. In total, expect about 40-45 minutes from start to finish, including a short resting time for the mixture to soak in the flavors and hold together better.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready to Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to stop the balls from sticking.
2. Mix the Main Ingredients:
In a large bowl, carefully combine the chopped turkey, stuffing bread cubes, chopped cranberries, celery, green onions, and parsley. Stir gently so everything is mixed well without smashing the bread cubes.
3. Prepare the Sauce Mix:
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, broth, dried sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this over the big bowl of stuffing and turkey. Add the Parmesan cheese if you like—it helps bind everything and adds flavor. Toss gently to coat all the bread cubes and ingredients.
4. Let the Mixture Rest:
Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes. This gives the bread time to soak up the moisture. Check the texture; if it feels too wet and won’t hold shape, sprinkle in a bit more breadcrumbs. It should be moist but able to form balls easily.
5. Form the Stuffing Balls:
Use your hands to shape the mixture into balls roughly 1 ½ inches across. Space them out on your prepared baking sheet so they bake evenly.
6. Add a Crispy Finish:
Lightly brush or drizzle the tops with olive oil or melted butter. This helps give a golden, crispy crust when baked.
7. Bake Them Up:
Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning the balls once halfway through to help all sides crisp up nicely. They should be golden and firm on the outside when done.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Take the balls out and top each with a spoonful of cranberry sauce or a few whole cranberries for a festive touch. Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs if you like. Serve warm as a delicious side or festive appetizer.
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure it’s fully thawed and well-drained before chopping to avoid extra moisture that could make the mixture too wet.
How Can I Make These Stuffing Balls Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the mixture and form the balls, then refrigerate them on the baking sheet, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, freeze the uncooked balls on a tray, then transfer to a bag and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Should I Do If the Mixture Isn’t Holding Together?
If your mixture feels too loose or crumbly, add a bit more beaten egg or a tablespoon of breadcrumbs to help bind it, then let it rest a few minutes before shaping again.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.