How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls (Perfect for Thanksgiving!)

These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls pack all the cozy Thanksgiving flavors into one bite! Juicy turkey, herbed stuffing, and tart cranberries come together for a crispy, golden appetizer that’s easy to make and perfect for parties or leftovers. Serve them with gravy or cranberry sauce for a crowd-pleasing holiday treat.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

They’re quick, festive, and full of flavor! Each bite is savory, slightly sweet, and comforting. Great as an appetizer, snack, or main dish—and perfect for using up leftover turkey and stuffing. Make ahead, freeze, and reheat anytime for that warm holiday taste all year long.

What You’ll Need

You only need a few simple ingredients for these delicious bites:

• 1 lb ground turkey – lean and juicy, perfect base for the stuffing mix.
• 2 cups prepared stuffing – any brand or homemade; it adds flavor and texture.
• ½ cup dried cranberries – for a sweet-tart holiday touch.
• 1 large egg – helps bind everything together.
• ¼ cup chicken broth – keeps the mixture moist.
• 1 tsp dried sage – gives that classic Thanksgiving flavor.
• ½ tsp thyme – for a savory, herby note.
• Salt & pepper to taste – adjust to your liking.
• Olive oil spray – for light, golden baking.

Optional for serving: warm turkey gravy or cranberry dipping sauce.

How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground turkey, 2 cups stuffing, ½ cup dried cranberries, 1 egg, ¼ cup broth, 1 tsp sage, and ½ tsp thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Mix gently until everything is combined but not overworked.
4. Roll into 1½-inch balls and place on the baking sheet.
5. Lightly spray with olive oil for crispness.
6. Bake 20–25 minutes, or until golden and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).
7. Serve warm with gravy or cranberry sauce.

You Must Know

A few quick things before you start:

• Don’t overmix the turkey mixture—light mixing keeps the stuffing balls tender, not dense.
• If your stuffing is dry, add a splash more chicken broth for moisture.
• Always use lean ground turkey, but not extra-lean—it needs a bit of fat for flavor and juiciness.
• You can make the mixture a day ahead and chill it; just roll and bake when ready.
• For a shortcut, use store-bought stuffing mix, but boost it with herbs or a little butter for that homemade touch.

These small tips make the difference between good and amazing Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

The secret to perfect texture? Even cooking and moisture balance.

• Size matters: keep balls around 1½ inches so they bake evenly.
• Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Halfway through baking, rotate the pan for even browning.
• For extra crispiness, give them a quick 2–3 minute broil at the end.
• Want softer centers? Cover loosely with foil for the last few minutes to trap steam.

Once baked, let them rest for 5 minutes before serving—this helps lock in the juices and makes every bite flavorful and tender.

Add Your Touch Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Make these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls your own with simple twists:

• Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
• Mix in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy, melty center.
• Swap cranberries for dried cherries or apricots if you prefer a different sweetness.
• Drizzle with homemade gravy or a tangy cranberry glaze before serving.
• Turn them into a meal: serve over mashed potatoes or alongside roasted veggies.

This recipe is flexible—perfect for customizing with your favorite holiday flavors or using what’s already in your kitchen.

Storing & Reheating

Keep leftovers fresh and tasty:

Find more family-friendly meals here.

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• To freeze, place cooled balls on a tray, freeze solid, then move to freezer bags (up to 2 months).
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or in the air fryer for crisp edges.
• Avoid microwaving too long—it can dry them out.

They reheat beautifully and taste just as good the next day—ideal for quick lunches or post-holiday snacks!

Chef’s Helpful Tips for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

See more crowd-pleasing appetizers.

• Use fresh herbs like sage or parsley for the best aroma and flavor.
• If the mix feels too wet, add a few tablespoons of breadcrumbs to firm it up.
• Line your hands with a little oil or water when rolling to prevent sticking.
• For a party version, make mini balls (1 inch) and serve them with toothpicks and cranberry dip.
• Want extra flavor? Brush with melted butter halfway through baking for that golden, rich finish.

These small pro-touches take your stuffing balls from simple to show-stopping.

FAQ for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Can I use leftover turkey instead of ground turkey?
Yes! Just finely chop cooked turkey and mix it with stuffing, cranberries, and broth.

Explore more holiday favorites.

Can I make these ahead?
Absolutely. Mix and shape the balls a day before, refrigerate, and bake fresh when ready.

Can I air fry them?
Yes, cook at 370°F (188°C) for about 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.

What sauce goes best?
Classic turkey gravy or a simple cranberry sauce makes the perfect pairing.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Use gluten-free stuffing mix or bread cubes and check that your broth is gluten-free too.

Conclusion

These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are everything we love about the holidays—cozy, flavorful, and easy to share. With just a few ingredients, you can turn simple turkey and stuffing into golden, bite-sized comfort food that fits any occasion.

They’re perfect for Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, or a cozy winter dinner, and they make the most of your leftovers with zero waste. Crisp outside, tender inside, and full of festive flavor—these little bites will quickly become a new tradition on your table.

Serve them warm, gather around, and enjoy the best part of the season in every bite.