Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

If you’re searching for a holiday side that’s truly a showstopper, look no further than these Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls! Juicy turkey, pops of sweet-tart cranberry, and savory herbs are baked together into shareable bites you’ll want to serve all season long.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a quick peek at the lineup! These Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls use down-to-earth staples, but each ingredient adds dimension—whether it’s hearty texture, juicy flavor, or bright color.

• Ground turkey (1 pound): A lighter twist on classic stuffing, turkey brings protein and moisture to every bite.
• Dried cranberries (1 cup): These little gems dot each ball with bursts of tart sweetness and a festive red pop.
• Breadcrumbs (1 cup): The key to perfect texture: breadcrumbs bind everything together and soak up the savory juices.
• Onion, diced (1): Real onion infuses every bite with natural sweetness and flavor—don’t skip it!
• Garlic, minced (2 cloves): A must for that classic savory stuffing note, fresh garlic wakes up all the flavors.
• Dried sage (1 teaspoon): Earthy and aromatic, sage is the signature herb that makes these balls taste like Thanksgiving.
• Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): This fragrant herb adds depth and subtle warmth, perfectly complementing the turkey.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon) & pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Core seasoning duo, essential for balancing sweet, savory, and tart notes.
• Chicken broth (1/4 cup): A splash ensures the stuffing balls stay deliciously moist, never dry.
• Eggs, beaten (2): Eggs bind the mixture so each ball holds its shape while baking.
• Parsley, chopped (1/4 cup): For a pop of color and freshness that brightens the whole dish.

Variations

One of my favorite things about these Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls is how adaptable they are. Whether you’re mixing things up for allergies, dietary needs, or just using what’s already in your pantry, you can totally make them your own!

• Sausage Twist: Swap half the turkey for your favorite breakfast sausage for an extra-savory flavor boost.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to ensure everyone around the table can dig in without worry.
• Nutty Add-In: Try stirring in a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts for a subtle crunch.
• Cheesy Surprise: Fold in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a melty, kid-approved touch.

How to Make Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set the stage for golden, delicious stuffing balls by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven gets toasty, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a generous mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, dried cranberries, breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Gently mix with clean hands or a sturdy spoon until the ingredients look evenly distributed and colorful.

Step 3: Add the Moist Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and add the beaten eggs and chopped parsley. Give everything another good mix, making sure the liquids are incorporated so the mixture holds together when shaped. It should feel slightly sticky—perfect for rolling!

Step 4: Shape into Balls

Scoop out small portions (about golf ball-size) and gently roll them between your hands. Place each one onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them out so they bake evenly and develop a golden crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the stuffing balls for 25–30 minutes, or until they’re gorgeously golden and cooked through. Let them cool for just a couple of minutes—then it’s time to serve up a tray of holiday magic!

How to Serve Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Garnishes

I love showering these Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls with extra fresh parsley, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or even a scattering of chopped toasted pecans for crunch. For that dreamy holiday look, add a few extra dried cranberries and a drizzle of warm gravy right before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair these stuffing balls with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or classic green beans for a well-rounded festive meal. Their sweet-savory flavor also shines next to buttery corn, glazed carrots, or even a fresh, crisp salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the stuffing balls stacked on a cake stand or tuck each one into a mini muffin liner for a darling appetizer look! Or, place them around the main roast as edible “garnish,” turning your holiday table into a feast for the eyes—and the stomach.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let them cool completely before sealing, and they’ll be ready to grab for the next round of snacking or sandwiches!

Freezing

To freeze, arrange cooled stuffing balls in a single layer on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months—perfect for pulling out at a moment’s notice when holiday cravings strike.

Reheating

Warm leftover stuffing balls in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. For a quick option, reheat gently in the microwave, covering with a damp paper towel to lock in moisture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to bring some extra sparkle to your table with these Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. Whether you serve them as a cozy side dish or a star party appetizer, they’re sure to charm every guest (and maybe even steal the spotlight from the main dish!). Happy holidays and happy cooking!

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