Name: Irresistible Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey (lean, not extra lean); 1½ cups cooked stuffing; 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry recommended); 1 egg; 1 teaspoon dried sage; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

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Introduction

These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful blend of savory turkey, herbed stuffing, and sweet cranberry sauce. Perfect for holiday gatherings or using up Thanksgiving leftovers, they offer tender, juicy bites full of festive flavor.

The image shows a group of golden-brown, round, crispy bite-sized balls arranged closely on a white plate on a white marbled surface. Each ball has a textured surface with visible bits of herbs and spices, small spots of dark brown char, and red dots of sauce or fruit pieces. Some balls are topped with a glossy deep red dollop and sprinkled with freshly chopped green parsley. Behind the balls, a white ramekin filled with smooth, thick, shiny deep red sauce is placed. Extra green parsley pieces are scattered on the plate around the balls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey (lean, not extra lean)
1½ cups cooked stuffing
1/2 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry recommended)
1 egg
1 teaspoon dried sage
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, cooked stuffing, cranberry sauce, egg, dried sage, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
Step 3: Using about 2 tablespoons of the mixture per ball, shape into 16–20 evenly sized stuffing balls.
Step 4: Arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each lightly with olive oil to help them brown.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Alternatively, air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes.
Step 6: Serve warm, optionally accompanied by extra cranberry sauce or gravy for dipping.

Tips & Variations

Use moist stuffing or add a splash of broth if your stuffing feels dry to help bind the mixture.
Choose 93% lean turkey for the best texture and juiciness.
Avoid overmixing the mixture to keep the balls tender and not dense.
For crispier edges, broil the balls for 1–2 minutes after baking.
These balls work great as holiday appetizers, in sliders, or as a creative leftover makeover.

Storage

Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through. They also freeze well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows a plate with ten round, golden-brown balls that have a crispy outer layer with small bits of green herbs and red pieces on them, giving a textured look. The balls are arranged next to a small white bowl filled with chunky, deep red cranberry sauce that has visible pieces of fruit and herbs on top. The plate is white and is set on a white marbled surface, with some chopped green herbs scattered around the balls and bowl, adding a fresh touch. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use leftover stuffing from a holiday meal?

Yes, leftover stuffing works perfectly for this recipe, especially if it’s moist. Add a little broth if it seems dry to ensure the balls hold together well.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can shape the balls and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it easy to prepare in advance for gatherings.