Delicious Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls for Your Feast

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are here to revolutionize your holiday table, offering a delightful twist on a cherished classic! For generations, stuffing has been a cornerstone of festive meals, particularly during Thanksgiving and Christmas, providing that comforting, herbaceous counterpoint to succulent roasted meats. It’s a dish steeped in tradition, evoking memories of warmth, family, and hearty gatherings. However, managing and serving a large, sometimes crumbly, baking dish of stuffing can occasionally be less than elegant.

That’s precisely where these delightful Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls shine. Imagine perfectly portioned, golden-brown spheres, each boasting a wonderfully crispy exterior that gives way to an incredibly moist and flavorful interior. The harmonious blend of savory turkey, tart cranberries, and aromatic herbs creates a symphony of taste that truly captivates the palate. People adore this dish not only for its irresistible combination of textures and flavors but also for its unparalleled convenience and elegant presentation. They’re easy to serve, prevent any messy scooping, and provide that perfect bite every time, making your holiday feast both memorable and effortlessly chic.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Stuffing Base:
  • 12 cups stale bread cubes (from a loaf of white, sourdough, or whole wheat bread, about 1.5 lbs, preferably a day or two old for optimal absorption)
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 stick), plus more for greasing the baking sheet
  • 2 large yellow onions, finely diced
  • 4 stalks celery, finely diced
  • 2 teaspoons dried sage
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
  • 1 ½ cups dried cranberries (sweetened or unsweetened, to your preference)
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded turkey (leftover roast turkey works wonderfully, or you can quickly poach and shred a turkey breast)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 3 ½ cups low-sodium chicken or turkey broth, warmed (you might need a little more or less depending on your bread’s dryness)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (for mixture and garnish)
• Optional for Glaze (for extra golden finish):
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon broth

Prepping Our Foundation: The Ingredients

Before we dive into creating these delectable Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, a little preparation goes a long way. This initial phase ensures everything is ready when we need it, making the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Trust me, proper mise en place is the secret weapon of every confident home cook!

1. Prepare Your Bread Cubes: The foundation of any great stuffing is the bread, and for our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, we want it to be just right. If you’re not starting with stale bread, I highly recommend cubing your fresh bread into ¾-inch to 1-inch pieces and then spreading them out on a large baking sheet. Let them air dry overnight, or, if you’re short on time, toast them in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for 15-20 minutes, stirring once or twice, until they’re lightly golden and dry to the touch but not hard like croutons. This drying process is absolutely crucial because it allows the bread to soak up all the flavorful broth without becoming mushy. Soft, fresh bread would simply disintegrate, leading to dense, unappealing stuffing. We want distinct, yet tender, bread pieces in our finished Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls.
2. Finely Dice Your Aromatics: Next, carefully finely dice your yellow onions. Aim for small, even pieces so they cook down consistently and blend seamlessly into the stuffing mixture, rather than creating large, distracting chunks. Repeat this process with your celery stalks. Consistent dicing is key for even cooking and a pleasant texture in every bite of your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls.
3. Shred the Turkey: If you’re using leftover roasted turkey, shred it into bite-sized pieces. If you’re starting with raw turkey breast, I suggest poaching it gently until cooked through, then letting it cool slightly before shredding. To poach, simply place the turkey breast in a saucepan, cover with water or broth, and simmer gently until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method keeps the turkey moist and tender, perfect for incorporating into our stuffing balls.
4. Measure and Prep Dry Ingredients: Measure out your dried sage, thyme, and crushed rosemary. These classic herbs are the heart of our stuffing flavor profile. Also, measure your dried cranberries. If they seem particularly dry or hard, you can rehydrate them slightly by soaking them in a little warm water or broth for 5-10 minutes, then draining thoroughly before adding them to the mixture. This will plump them up, making them even more delightful in your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. Chop your fresh parsley, setting aside a small amount for garnish if you wish.
5. Warm the Broth: Gently warm your low-sodium chicken or turkey broth. You don’t need it boiling, just warm to the touch. Warm broth helps the bread cubes absorb the liquid more efficiently and evenly, contributing to a wonderfully moist stuffing.

Building the Flavor Base: Sautéing and Combining

This is where the magic truly begins to happen! The aromas that will fill your kitchen during this stage are simply incredible, building the foundational flavors for our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls.

6. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt 8 tablespoons (1 stick) of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is shimmering, add your finely diced onions and celery. Cook these patiently, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, or until they have softened significantly and the onions are translucent. You’re not looking for browning here, but rather a gentle caramelization that coaxes out their natural sweetness, adding depth to the flavor of our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls.
7. Infuse with Herbs: Once the vegetables are tender, add the dried sage, thyme, and crushed rosemary to the pot. Stir well and cook for another 1-2 minutes. This brief period allows the heat to “bloom” the dried herbs, releasing their essential oils and intensifying their aromatic qualities. You’ll notice the fragrance becoming much more pronounced – a truly delightful scent that signifies the soul of your stuffing is coming to life.
8. Introduce the Dried Cranberries and Turkey: Now, add the dried cranberries and the cooked, shredded turkey to the pot. Stir everything together, allowing the cranberries to warm through and the turkey to meld with the herbaceous butter mixture. Cook for just a couple of minutes, ensuring all the flavors are starting to intertwine beautifully. This step brings in the signature sweetness and tang of the cranberries, perfectly complementing the savory turkey in our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls.
9. Season Thoughtfully: Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Remember, salt is a flavor enhancer, so don’t be shy, but also taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away! Stir thoroughly to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout your aromatic base.

Crafting the Stuffing Mixture: Achieving the Perfect Consistency

Now that our flavor base is robust and fragrant, it’s time to bring all the components together, transforming them into the moist, flavorful mixture that will become our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. This stage is all about balance and thorough mixing.

10. Combine Wet and Dry: In a very large mixing bowl (the biggest one you have!), place your stale bread cubes. Pour the warm aromatic mixture (onions, celery, herbs, cranberries, turkey, and butter) directly over the bread cubes.
11. Add the Eggs: In a separate small bowl, lightly beat the two large eggs. Gently pour the beaten eggs over the bread and vegetable mixture. The eggs act as a binder, helping our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls hold their shape during baking and contributing to a richer texture.
12. Moisten with Broth: Gradually pour in about 3 cups of the warmed low-sodium chicken or turkey broth. Using a large spoon or your clean hands, gently mix everything together. The goal here is to evenly coat and moisten all the bread cubes without mashing them. You want the bread to absorb the liquid, becoming tender but still retaining some structure. Add the remaining ½ cup of broth, or even a little more, a tablespoon at a time, until the mixture is uniformly moist but not soggy. It should feel cohesive and slightly sticky, holding together when you gently squeeze a handful, but not dripping wet. This is a critical step for perfect Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls; under-moistened stuffing will be dry, while over-moistened will be dense.
13. Incorporate Fresh Parsley and Final Seasoning Adjustments: Stir in the ¼ cup of finely chopped fresh parsley. Fresh parsley adds a beautiful pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish. At this point, it’s crucial to perform a taste test! Take a small spoonful of the mixture, perhaps microwave it for 10-15 seconds if you’re concerned about raw egg, and taste it. Adjust the salt, pepper, or even add a pinch more dried herbs if you feel it needs it. Remember, the flavors will concentrate slightly during baking, but this is your best chance to get the seasoning spot-on for your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls.

Forming Our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Now for the fun part – transforming our delicious stuffing mixture into individual, perfectly portioned Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls! This makes them not only charming to serve but also ensures even cooking and a delightful crispy exterior on all sides.

14. Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Lightly grease a large baking sheet with a little butter or cooking spray. If you’re making a large batch, you might need two sheets. Ensure they are spacious enough so the balls aren’t crowded, allowing them to crisp up properly.
15. Form the Balls: Using a 2-inch ice cream scoop or a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the stuffing mixture. Gently roll each scoop between your palms to form compact, round balls, approximately 1 ½ to 2 inches in diameter. You want them to be firm enough to hold their shape, but avoid packing them too densely, as this can lead to a heavy, less tender interior. Place the formed Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each one to allow for even air circulation. The uniform size of these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls is not just for aesthetics; it guarantees that they will all cook through at roughly the same rate, preventing some from being undercooked while others become too dry.

Baking to Golden Perfection

The baking process is where our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls develop their beautiful golden crust and a tender, moist interior. The aroma that will waft from your oven is truly a holiday delight!

16. Preheat Oven and Optional Glaze: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you desire an extra golden and slightly richer exterior for your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, whisk together 2 tablespoons of melted butter and 1 tablespoon of warmed broth. Gently brush this mixture over the top of each stuffing ball before they go into the oven. This little trick helps to achieve a beautiful, glossy finish and adds another layer of flavor.
17. Bake the Stuffing Balls: Carefully transfer the baking sheet(s) to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are beautifully golden brown on the outside and heated through in the center. The exact timing can vary depending on your oven and the precise size of your balls. If you’re unsure, you can break one open to check for doneness; the interior should be steaming hot and moist. For an even crispier exterior, you can turn them gently halfway through baking, but this isn’t strictly necessary. What we’re aiming for is that delightful contrast between the crunchy surface and the soft, flavorful core.
18. Rest and Serve: Once baked to perfection, remove the Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls from the oven. Let them rest on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before serving. This short resting period allows the internal juices and flavors to redistribute, ensuring maximum deliciousness.

Serving Suggestions and Enjoying Your Creations

These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are incredibly versatile and make a fantastic addition to any meal, especially during the festive season. They’re not just a side dish; they’re a celebration in miniature form!

19. Presentation: Transfer the warm Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls to a serving platter. For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, sprinkle with a little more freshly chopped parsley just before serving. The vibrant green against the golden-brown balls makes for a truly inviting presentation.
20. Pairing Perfection: These delightful balls are, of course, a quintessential companion to roast turkey, chicken, or pork. They also pair wonderfully with gravies, cranberry sauce, or a dollop of applesauce. Don’t limit them to just holiday meals; they are fantastic alongside a simple weeknight roast chicken or even as a standalone appetizer with a dipping sauce. Imagine serving these at a party – they’re much easier to manage than traditional scooped stuffing!
21. Storage: If you happen to have any Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls leftover (though I doubt you will!), they store beautifully. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can be reheated gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warm through, or quickly in the microwave. For longer storage, these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. I find they retain their texture remarkably well, making them excellent for meal prep or enjoying a taste of the holidays anytime.

Enjoy your homemade Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls – a truly comforting and flavorful dish that’s sure to be a new favorite!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends – a truly special dish that I am incredibly excited for you to experience. We’ve journeyed through the simple steps of creating something that looks and tastes like it took hours, but in reality, comes together with wonderful ease. This recipe for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls isn’t just another side dish; it’s a culinary revelation, a festive mouthful that perfectly encapsulates the flavors of warmth, comfort, and celebration in every single bite. It’s designed to impress, delight, and become an instant classic in your kitchen, offering that ideal balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes that will have everyone asking for your secret.

What makes these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls an absolute must-try? For starters, it’s the sheer convenience of portion control. No more struggling to scoop perfectly formed stuffing onto plates; these individual spheres are elegant, easy to serve, and maintain their beautiful texture. The ground turkey provides a succulent, protein-packed base, perfectly seasoned to complement the rich, earthy herbs like sage and thyme. Then, we introduce the vibrant burst of dried cranberries, which are more than just a pop of color; they bring a delightful tartness that cuts through the richness, creating a harmonious flavor profile that is truly irresistible. Each ball boasts a perfectly crisp exterior, yielding to a tender, moist, and incredibly flavorful interior. It’s an upgrade from traditional stuffing, transforming a beloved classic into something fresh, exciting, and wonderfully practical for any gathering, big or small.

Elevate Your Meal: Inspired Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve mastered the art of crafting these delightful stuffing balls, let’s talk about how to truly make them shine on your table. While they are, of course, a quintessential companion to your Thanksgiving or Christmas roast turkey, their versatility extends far beyond holiday feasts. Imagine serving them as an elegant appetizer at your next dinner party, perhaps with a small bowl of warm, homemade gravy or a tangy cranberry-orange relish for dipping. They’re fantastic alongside a simple roasted chicken and green beans for a weeknight meal, transforming an ordinary dinner into something truly special. For brunch, I love serving them alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon, offering a unique savory element that will surprise and delight your guests. Don’t limit them to just the main course; crumble them over a fresh fall salad for an added burst of flavor and texture, or even float a few in a hearty turkey noodle soup to make it even more substantial and delicious. They also make fantastic additions to a leftover sandwich or wrap, bringing that comforting, savory taste to your lunch the next day. The possibilities are genuinely endless, and each serving suggestion offers a new way to appreciate the incredible depth of flavor packed into each little ball.

Creative Variations to Make Them Your Own

Part of the joy of cooking is making a recipe your own, and these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are incredibly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different types of bread – a rustic sourdough or a cornbread base would lend a distinct character. If you’re looking for an extra layer of richness, consider adding a tablespoon of finely chopped cooked bacon or sausage to the mix. For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can provide a subtle, welcome kick. You could also swap out some of the dried cranberries for other dried fruits like chopped apricots or cherries for a different sweet-tart dynamic. Don’t be shy about experimenting with your favorite herbs; fresh rosemary or marjoram would also be wonderful additions. For a gluten-free version, simply use your preferred gluten-free bread. The core flavors are robust enough to handle a little experimentation, so feel empowered to play around and discover your own signature twist.

So, I implore you, dear reader, to step into your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a try. You won’t regret it. The aroma filling your home as these golden beauties bake will be a reward in itself, a promise of the deliciousness to come. I truly believe that once you try these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, they’ll earn a permanent spot on your recipe rotation, whether for special occasions or simply to elevate an everyday meal. Cooking should be an enjoyable, creative process, and this recipe offers all of that and more. Once you’ve made them, please don’t keep your experience a secret! I would absolutely love to hear from you. Share your thoughts, your successes, any creative twists you tried, or even photos of your beautiful creations. Your feedback not only inspires me but also helps others in our wonderful cooking community. Let’s celebrate delicious food together!

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect way to use up leftover turkey and stuffing ingredients after the holiday season. These bite-sized treats are packed with shredded turkey, dried cranberries, and flavorful herbs like thyme and parsley, all rolled together into delicious, golden-brown balls. Whether served as an appetizer or a side dish, these stuffing balls are best enjoyed warm with a side of gravy or cranberry sauce. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy snack, they bring together the flavors of Thanksgiving in every bite!

Prep Time
15 Minutes

Cook Time
30 Minutes

Total Time
50 Minutes

Servings
12 servings

Ingredients

• 2 cups bread crumbs
• 1 cup cooked turkey, shredded
• ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
• ½ cup onion, finely diced
• ½ cup celery, diced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1
   In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, shredded turkey, chopped dried cranberries, finely diced onion, diced celery, chopped fresh parsley, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
2. Step 2
   Add chicken broth and mix thoroughly until the mixture is uniformly moist and can be formed into balls.
3. Step 3
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.
4. Step 4
   Form the mixture into 1.5 to 2-inch balls and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring space between each.
5. Step 5
   Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
6. Step 6
   Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.