If you’re looking to add a festive twist to your holiday table or simply want a delightful snack that’s bursting with flavors, this Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe is an absolute winner. Juicy ground turkey is perfectly blended with seasoned stuffing mix and sweet dried cranberries, creating bite-sized balls that are both savory and slightly sweet. The herbaceous notes of thyme and sage marry beautifully with the hint of garlic and fresh parsley, making every mouthful a comforting, crowd-pleasing experience that’s easy to prepare and impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients that bring balance to every bite. Each component—from the tender ground turkey to the tart cranberries—plays an essential role in texture, flavor, and color, turning humble stuffing balls into an unforgettable dish.
- 1 pound ground turkey: Lean and juicy, it forms the protein-packed base of the stuffing balls.
- 1 cup stuffing mix (preferably seasoned): Adds that classic savory richness and crumbly texture essential to stuffing balls.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: Provides a sweet, tart contrast that enlivens every bite with a festive pop.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the mixture moist and flavorful, ensuring tender results.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Delivers subtle sweetness and depth to the blend.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery: Adds a crisp, fresh texture that complements the softness of the other ingredients.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with its herbaceous aroma and peppery notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a warm, earthy undertone that is quintessential in stuffing flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried sage: Brings an aromatic, savory complexity typical of holiday stuffing.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savoriness with a mild, fragrant garlic punch.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and intensifies all the standout flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat to round out the seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Drizzled on top for a golden, crispy finish with a buttery richness.
How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and to prevent the stuffing balls from sticking as they bake to golden perfection.
Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, place the ground turkey and seasoned stuffing mix together. These two ingredients are the foundation that will hold your stuffing balls together with delicious consistency.
Step 3: Mix in Flavors and Herbs
Add the dried cranberries, chicken broth, finely chopped onion and celery, fresh parsley, dried thyme, sage, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. These ingredients bring layers of flavor and texture that transform simple meatballs into a festive favorite.
Step 4: Mix Thoroughly by Hand
Use your hands to gently fold and combine the ingredients. This hands-on step ensures everything is evenly distributed without overworking the meat, keeping the stuffing balls tender and moist.
Step 5: Form the Stuffing Balls
Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized spheres, about 2 tablespoons each. This size is perfect for serving as appetizers or side dishes that guests can easily grab and enjoy.
Step 6: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Place your Turkey Stuffing Balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them approximately 1 inch apart to allow heat to circulate evenly for a beautiful bake.
Step 7: Add Butter for a Golden Finish
Drizzle the melted butter over each stuffing ball gently. This extra touch not only adds richness but helps them brown beautifully with a slightly crisp exterior.
Step 8: Bake Until Cooked Through
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. The balls should be cooked through with a lightly browned exterior, signaling they’re ready to delight your taste buds.
Step 9: Cool Slightly and Serve
Once baked, allow the Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps them set and makes handling easier while you prepare to enjoy or present.
How to Serve Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Garnishes
To enhance the dish’s festive presentation, try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or a few whole fresh cranberries on top for a pop of color. A small dollop of cranberry sauce or a drizzle of a tangy mustard glaze also pairs beautifully as a garnish, adding bursts of flavor that complement the stuffing balls perfectly.
Side Dishes
These stuffing balls pair wonderfully with classic sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. For a holiday-inspired meal, serve alongside creamy mashed sweet potatoes or sautéed green beans with almonds to capture that cozy, comforting vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, consider serving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe as part of a festive appetizer platter. Arrange them on a wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces like spicy aioli or cranberry chutney, or even stack them in a pyramid for a fun centerpiece that guests will love to nibble on throughout the evening.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating in the oven or microwave will bring back their comforting warmth without losing texture.
Freezing
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe freezes wonderfully. Place cooled balls in a single layer on a baking tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months, making them a perfect make-ahead holiday treat.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated stuffing balls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crisped on the outside. Using the oven instead of the microwave preserves their texture beautifully.
FAQs
Can I make these stuffing balls without ground turkey?
Absolutely! While ground turkey adds a light and lean protein, you can substitute with ground chicken or even sausage for a richer flavor. Adjust seasoning accordingly to balance flavors.
Are dried cranberries necessary for this recipe?
Dried cranberries add a delightful sweet tartness that contrasts with the savory herbs in the stuffing balls. If unavailable, dried cherries or chopped dried apricots can provide a similar pop of sweetness.
Can I use homemade stuffing mix?
Yes! A homemade stuffing mix with toasted bread, herbs, and a little seasoning works beautifully and adds a personalized touch. Just make sure it’s well seasoned to keep the flavor profile intact.
Can these be prepared gluten-free?
Definitely. Use a gluten-free stuffing mix or substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities without compromising taste or texture.
How long do these stuffing balls keep after baking?
Properly stored in the fridge, the stuffing balls stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure they are cooled before refrigerating to maintain their texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—easy to make, packed with wonderful festive flavors, and perfect for sharing. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, these flavorful bites bring joy and comfort with every bite. I promise once you try them, they’ll become your go-to recipe for celebrating good times with great food. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and dive into these irresistible, festive little morsels!
