Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls bring together all the nostalgic flavours of a holiday feast in one tidy, irresistible bite. They are perfect for entertaining because they hold their shape well, bake evenly, and can be served as an appetiser, side dish, or even a quick leftover-friendly lunch. I especially love how the tart sweetness of cranberries balances the savoury turkey and stuffing. When I tested this recipe with almond milk instead of regular milk, it worked beautifully and added a subtle nuttiness. Whether you are hosting a large celebration or simply craving a taste of the holidays on a weeknight, these stuffing balls offer comforting ease and satisfying depth of flavour without demanding hours of kitchen prep.
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Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 18 stuffing balls
- Diet: Halal
Description
Savory turkey and herb stuffing balls blended with tart cranberries, perfect as a holiday side dish or appetizer.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped
- 4 cups prepared stuffing
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (as needed)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped turkey, stuffing, and dried cranberries.
- Stir in the eggs, salt, pepper, sage, and thyme.
- Add chicken broth a little at a time until the mixture holds together when squeezed.
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into golf-ball-sized balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use leftover holiday turkey and stuffing for convenience.
- If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more stuffing to firm it up.
- Serve with gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ingredients Breakdown
Ground turkey
Ground turkey brings lean, tender protein to the stuffing balls and binds the mixture together while staying pleasantly moist during baking. Its mild flavour allows the herbs, spices, and cranberries to shine without overpowering the dish.
Stuffing mix
A classic dried stuffing mix provides structure, absorbency, and seasoned breadiness. Once moistened, it becomes the backbone of each ball and ensures a consistent texture throughout. I often choose a herb-seasoned variety for an extra layer of warmth.
Dried cranberries
Cranberries contribute subtle sweetness and a delightful chewiness, adding bursts of flavour that contrast with the savoury turkey. They also keep the mixture from feeling too dense by offering bright, fruity notes in every bite.
Celery
Finely chopped celery brings crisp freshness and a mild vegetal earthiness. It softens perfectly in the oven yet retains enough texture to enhance the stuffing balls’ structure.
Onion
Onion adds aromatic depth and a classic savoury base. When sautéed lightly before mixing, it lends sweetness and a mellow richness that permeates the entire recipe.
Eggs
Eggs act as a binder, holding the mixture together and ensuring the stuffing balls do not crumble during baking. They also add moisture and help develop a cohesive, tender interior.
Milk (or almond milk)
A splash of milk softens the stuffing mix and keeps the mixture pliable. Almond milk works wonderfully as a dairy-free option and does not alter the flavour noticeably.
Butter
Melted butter enriches the mixture and reinforces the traditional holiday stuffing taste. It also encourages browning during baking.
Poultry seasoning
A blend of savoury herbs enhances the turkey and stuffing, adding familiar holiday aromas such as sage, thyme, and marjoram.
Salt and pepper
These simple seasonings bring balance and enhance every other flavour in the recipe.
Directions
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F and lining a baking tray with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures the stuffing balls brown evenly. Start by softening the stuffing mix: combine it with warmed milk or almond milk in a large bowl, allowing it to absorb the liquid fully. While the stuffing softens, sauté the chopped onion and celery in a small amount of butter until just tender. This step develops flavour and removes the raw sharpness from the vegetables.
Add the sautéed vegetables to the softened stuffing mixture. Incorporate the ground turkey, dried cranberries, eggs, melted butter, and seasonings. Use clean hands or a sturdy spatula to mix until the texture is cohesive but not overly compacted. Overmixing can make the stuffing balls dense.
Shape the mixture into evenly sized balls, typically about the size of a golf ball, and arrange them on the prepared tray with slight spacing. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the exterior is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Allow the stuffing balls to rest briefly before serving so they hold their shape and release their aromas fully.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 18 stuffing balls and serves 6 people. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, while baking requires 20 to 25 minutes. Total time: roughly 45 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store the stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through. They can also be frozen for up to two months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Apple and sage twist
Add finely diced apple and increase the sage for a sweeter, more herbal profile reminiscent of traditional harvest stuffing.
Sausage and turkey blend
Replace half the turkey with mild sausage for a richer, more robust flavour that pairs nicely with cranberries.
Gluten-free version
Choose a gluten-free stuffing mix and ensure your seasonings are certified gluten-free. Almond milk works well here too.
Spicy cranberry heat
Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for a subtle kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of cranberries.
Herb-forward profile
Increase thyme, rosemary, and parsley to create an aromatic version that feels especially festive and fragrant.
Parmesan-crusted option
Roll each ball lightly in grated Parmesan before baking for a crisp, savoury crust.
Orange zest brightness
Stir in a small amount of orange zest for a citrus note that complements the cranberries wonderfully.
Nutty texture
Add chopped walnuts or pecans for bite, depth, and a rustic feel.
Mushroom-enhanced savoury flavour
Sauté finely chopped mushrooms with the onion and celery to deepen the umami character.
Maple-glazed finish
Brush the baked stuffing balls lightly with warm maple syrup for a sweet, glossy finish.
FAQs
How do I keep the stuffing balls from falling apart?
Ensure the mixture is adequately moistened and that the eggs act as a proper binder.
Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you may refrigerate the mixture for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.
Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Yes, air fry at 360°F for about 12 to 15 minutes, turning once halfway through.
Are fresh cranberries suitable?
They can be used if chopped finely, though they yield a more tart flavour.
Can I substitute chicken for turkey?
Yes, ground chicken works well and offers a similar mild flavour.
Do I need to sauté the vegetables first?
It is recommended for the best texture and flavour, though not strictly required.
Can these be made dairy-free?
Yes, substitute almond milk and use dairy-free butter.
How do I freeze the stuffing balls?
Freeze them on a tray first, then transfer to a container or freezer bag.
Can I make mini versions?
Yes, reduce the size and bake for 12 to 15 minutes.
What dipping sauces pair well?
Cranberry sauce, turkey gravy, or a maple-mustard dip complement them beautifully.
Conclusion
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls capture all the warmth and comfort of a traditional holiday meal while offering the convenience of a bite-sized dish. Their combination of savoury turkey, herb-seasoned stuffing, and bright cranberries makes them versatile, satisfying, and ideal for entertaining or weeknight meals. With numerous variations and dependable storage options, this recipe is one you can return to throughout the season and adapt to your tastes effortlessly.
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