If you’re searching for the perfect blend of savory and sweet for your holiday table, cranberry turkey stuffing balls deliver exactly that. These bite-sized treats combine juicy turkey, tart cranberries, and aromatic herbs into one unforgettable dish that works as both an appetizer and a side.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
I always start with fresh cranberries when they’re in season because they provide the perfect tartness to balance the savory turkey. My go-to approach is preparing all the vegetables first so the mixing process flows smoothly and the flavors distribute evenly throughout each ball.
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (I recommend using day-old bread for better texture)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic makes a noticeable difference)
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (in my experience, fresh thyme can be substituted at triple the amount)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 2 large eggs (room temperature eggs blend more easily)
- ½ cup chicken broth (I usually opt for low-sodium to control salt levels)
- Olive oil for drizzling
Step-by-Step Instructions
In my experience, the key to perfectly formed stuffing balls is keeping your hands slightly damp throughout the rolling process.
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, cranberries, finely chopped onion, celery, minced garlic, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly so every bite gets the full spectrum of flavors.
Step 3: Add the ground turkey, eggs, and chicken broth to the mixture. Using your hands, incorporate everything thoroughly until the mixture holds together when squeezed. Pro tip: don’t overmix, as this can make the balls dense rather than tender.
Step 4: Wet your hands slightly and scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture. Roll into balls approximately 1 to 1½ inches in diameter. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
Step 5: Drizzle the stuffing balls with olive oil for that golden, crispy exterior. Bake for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The cranberries will burst slightly, creating pockets of tart flavor throughout.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and let them cool for 3-5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute and makes them easier to handle.
Perfect Pairings for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
These stuffing balls shine brightest when paired with complementary textures and flavors that enhance their savory-sweet profile.
Garlic Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes: The creamy, buttery texture of mashed potatoes provides the perfect canvas for these flavorful balls, while the garlic echoes the savory notes in the dish.
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies: Roasted vegetables bring a light, nutritious element that prevents the meal from feeling too heavy while adding colorful presentation to your holiday spread.
Autumn Wild Rice Soup: This hearty soup creates a wonderful contrast to the crispy stuffing balls, adding warmth and comfort to your festive meal.
Butternut Squash Casserole: The natural sweetness of butternut squash complements the tart cranberries beautifully, creating a harmonious flavor profile perfect for holiday celebrations.
Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup: A creamy soup option that adds richness and makes the meal feel extra comforting during cold weather gatherings.
Make-Ahead and Storage Solutions
Store leftover cranberry turkey stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavor beautifully and actually taste even better the next day as the herbs continue to meld.
For reheating, I recommend placing them in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method preserves the crispy exterior much better than microwaving. You can also reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for extra crispiness.
These balls freeze exceptionally well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen, adding an extra 5 minutes to the warming time. If you’re looking for more make-ahead options, try our Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole for similar convenience.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works perfectly as a substitute and will create similarly tender, flavorful stuffing balls with the same great texture.
How do I prevent the balls from falling apart during baking?
Make sure your mixture isn’t too wet. The eggs and chicken broth should bind everything together, but if the mixture feels loose, add an extra tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs.
Can I make these ahead for a party?
Yes! Form the balls up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake them fresh just before serving for the best texture and warmth.
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, cranberries, finely chopped onion, celery, minced garlic, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Add the ground turkey, eggs, and chicken broth to the mixture. Using your hands, incorporate everything thoroughly until the mixture holds together when squeezed.
- Wet your hands slightly and scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture. Roll into balls approximately 1 to 1½ inches in diameter. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Drizzle the stuffing balls with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for 3-5 minutes before serving.
Notes
