When the holidays roll around, nothing beats a dish that’s both comforting and festive — and these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls check all the boxes. Juicy ground turkey combines with tart cranberries, aromatic herbs, and a touch of sweetness to create the perfect balance of flavors. Whether served as a side dish, appetizer, or even a main course, these savory bites bring a taste of celebration to every table.
Why You’ll Love These Stuffing Balls
These little gems are a twist on traditional stuffing — rolled into perfectly portioned, oven-baked bites. They’re easier to serve, kid-friendly, and full of flavor. The cranberries add a festive pop of color and sweetness, while the sage and thyme bring that cozy holiday aroma everyone loves.
They’re also nutritious, simple to prepare, and can be made ahead for stress-free entertaining.
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ¼ cup chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, cranberries, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Add liquids: Stir in chicken broth, eggs, and parsley until everything is evenly combined.
- Shape the mixture: Form into balls (about 1 ½ inches each) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Cook for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and the centers reach 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Enjoy them hot, with gravy, cranberry sauce, or as a festive appetizer.
Tips & Variations
- Add crunch: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty texture.
- Go spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Herb swap: Try fresh rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist.
- Make ahead: Shape the balls a day early, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Storage & Reheating
- Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until heated through.
- Freeze: Freeze cooked or uncooked balls for up to 2 months; thaw before baking or reheating.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes — chicken works perfectly as a substitute.
How do I make these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
Can I skip the eggs?
Replace them with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2½ tbsp water per egg).
How do I know they’re done?
Use a meat thermometer — they should reach 165°F (74°C) inside.
Can I make them low-carb?
Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
Serving Ideas
These stuffing balls shine on any holiday spread! Serve them with:
- Turkey gravy or cranberry sauce
- Mashed potatoes and roasted veggies
- A crisp salad for a lighter touch
Conclusion
Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls bring the essence of the holidays into bite-sized form — savory, sweet, and perfectly balanced. They’re easy to make, beautiful to serve, and delicious from the first bite to the last. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, Christmas dinner, or a cozy family gathering, these stuffing balls are sure to become a new favorite tradition.