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Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls – Savory, Sweet & Perfect for Holiday Gatherings

These Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are the ultimate holiday appetizer or side dish—packed with juicy turkey, herbed stuffing, and sweet-tart cranberries in every bite. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they’re easy to make, great for using leftovers, and perfect for entertaining. Serve them with gravy, cranberry sauce, or a creamy dip for a crowd-pleasing twist on classic holiday flavors. Whether for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or cozy winter dinners, these bites bring festive cheer to your table.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Appetizer, Baking, Side Dish, Snack / Finger Food
Cuisine American, turkey
Servings 6 (about 16–20 stuffing balls depending on size)
Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Ice cream scoop or spoon
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Oven
  • Optional: basting brush

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups prepared stuffing mix (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded turkey
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries (or 1/2 cup chopped fresh cranberries)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup chicken or turkey broth
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • Optional: 1 tsp fresh sage or thyme, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Prepare the stuffing mixture by combining stuffing mix and broth in a large bowl until slightly moistened.
  • Add turkey, cranberries, and optional extras (nuts, cheese, herbs). Mix gently to combine.
  • Bind with eggs until the mixture holds together but isn’t overly dense.
  • Shape into balls using an ice cream scoop or your hands, placing them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Brush tops with melted butter for a golden, crisp finish.
  • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the balls are heated through and lightly browned.
  • Serve warm with dipping sauces such as gravy, cranberry sauce, or mustard aioli.

Notes

  • Make-ahead: Shape the balls and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Vegan option: Use plant-based sausage, vegetable broth, and a flax egg.
  • Gluten-free: Swap stuffing mix for a gluten-free version.
  • Cheese variation: Fold in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda for extra richness.
  • Air fryer: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway for crispiness.
  • Keep moist: Gradually add broth if mixture seems dry; don’t overmix to prevent dense balls.
Keyword bite-sized stuffing, Christmas side dish, cranberry turkey stuffing balls, festive holiday recipe, holiday stuffing balls, Thanksgiving appetizer