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Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls bring together everything you crave from Thanksgiving into one crowd-pleasing bite. Juicy turkey, herby stuffing, and tart cranberries join forces for crispy golden morsels that are perfect for sharing. I started making these to transform leftovers, but now they have earned a place as a holiday favorite in their own right they disappear fast whenever I serve them
I first made these for a Thanksgiving potluck and was amazed to see every single one vanish before the main meal even started now everyone requests them for family gatherings
Ingredients
- Cooked turkey: chop or shred for juicy bites when possible use freshly roasted turkey for best flavor
- Prepared stuffing: homemade or boxed both work just make sure it is seasoned and flavorful
- Dried or fresh cranberries: bring tang and festive color use plump dried cranberries or sweetened fresh for balance
- Large eggs: these help bind the stuffing balls together farm fresh eggs tend to have a richer yolk
- Chicken or turkey broth: adds moisture and depth go for a low sodium version so you can control the salt
- Finely diced onion: for savory sweet notes yellow or white onions both add aroma when freshly chopped
- Butter: melted for richness use unsalted to keep flavors balanced
- Poultry seasoning: classic Thanksgiving herbs all in one blend check the jar is fresh for bright aroma
- Garlic powder: an extra layer of earthy flavor fresh garlic works but powder mixes in more easily
- Salt and pepper: to taste adjust carefully if stuffing or broth are already seasoned
- Grated Parmesan cheese: optional but adds nutty richness use real Parmigiano Reggiano for best results
For Serving
- Homemade turkey gravy: ladle over hot stuffing balls for comfort factor
- Cranberry sauce: a cool tangy contrast that brings out the sweet and savory notes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Place parchment paper on a large baking sheet and lightly brush with melted butter for extra flavor and easy release.
- Mix the Base Ingredients:
- Place turkey stuffing and cranberries in a big mixing bowl. Use clean hands or a sturdy spoon to gently combine until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add Seasoning and Bind Everything:
- Scatter diced onion poultry seasoning garlic powder salt and pepper over the bowl. Pour in the melted butter and crack in the eggs. Drizzle in broth a little at a time mixing gently after each addition. The mixture should hold together easily when pressed but not be soggy. Add more broth if dry or a few breadcrumbs if it feels wet.
- Shape the Stuffing Balls:
- Use an ice cream scoop or heaping spoon to portion out the mixture. Roll each scoop into a ball about one and a half inches wide. Arrange on the prepared baking sheet with enough space so they crisp up evenly.
- Bake Until Golden:
- Bake in the center of your oven for about twenty to twenty five minutes. The stuffing balls should be deeply golden and heated through. For even crispier edges switch to broil mode for the last two or three minutes but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Serve Warm:
- Transfer to a platter and serve hot with a drizzle of turkey gravy and a spoonful of cranberry sauce. These taste best fresh from the oven when the outsides are crispy and the centers are soft.
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I love using fresh sage from my garden in this recipe it takes the aroma to a whole new level and the color from cranberries always reminds me of my grandma’s holiday table where we would laugh for hours over favorite dishes
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat place on a baking sheet and warm in a 350 degree oven until hot and crispy again microwaving works but you will lose some texture. For longer storage freeze cooled stuffing balls on a tray then pack into freezer bags for up to two months reheat straight from frozen in the oven for best crunch.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have turkey you can use cooked chicken or even roasted pork. For a vegetarian version swap turkey for cooked lentils or smashed chickpeas. Gluten free bread or stuffing mix works just as well just make sure to taste and adjust seasoning since some brands are milder.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve these stuffing balls as an appetizer at holiday cocktail parties pile them high on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. For a modern Thanksgiving twist make them the center of your meal with hearty sides like mashed potatoes maple glazed carrots and a leafy green salad. They are also perfect for lunchboxes dipped into extra cranberry sauce or ranch.
Cultural Touch
Stuffing balls are a playful spin on two traditions turkey and stuffing coming together into one dish. Families have been reinventing Thanksgiving leftovers for generations but rolling these classic flavors into bite size portions brings a communal festive feeling to your table. Every time I make these I feel like I am channeling the spirit of sharing and making memories that defines the holiday.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes, shape the mixture into balls and refrigerate them overnight. Bake when ready to serve for best freshness.
- → What type of turkey should I use?
Both leftover roast turkey and freshly cooked turkey breast work well. Shred or chop the meat finely for best texture.
- → How can I keep the stuffing balls from falling apart?
Ensure the mixture is moist enough with eggs and broth to bind well. Chilling the formed balls before baking helps them hold shape.
- → Can stuffing balls be baked or air fried?
Absolutely! Bake at 375°F until golden, or air fry for a crispier crust. Adjust timing as needed for your appliance.
- → Are there gluten-free or vegetarian alternatives?
Yes, use gluten-free stuffing and bread cubes for a gluten-free version. Replace turkey with lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- → What should I serve with these stuffing balls?
Gravy, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and roasted vegetables pair beautifully with these flavorful bites.