Name: Perfect Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls for Holiday Feast
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8-10 stuffing balls
Ingredients: 1 pound cooked turkey, shredded or finely diced; 4 cups dried bread cubes; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced; 1/2 cup celery, finely diced; 2-3 large garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup warm chicken or turkey broth; 1 large egg, lightly beaten; 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste; A tiny pinch ground nutmeg (optional); Olive oil or cooking spray, for greasing

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are not just a delightful side dish; they are a culinary innovation designed to elevate your holiday table with both flavor and finesse. Imagine all the comforting, aromatic essence of your most beloved traditional stuffing, expertly crafted into perfectly portioned, golden-brown spheres, each brimming with savory turkey, tart cranberries, and a medley of fragrant herbs. While the concept of stuffing has proudly graced celebratory feasts for centuries, particularly during Thanksgiving and Christmas, these individual balls offer a truly elegant and convenient modern twist on a cherished classic, honoring its rich heritage with a contemporary presentation.

I have found that this rendition garners immense popularity not only for its incredible depth of taste – a sublime balance of rich, savory turkey and the bright, sweet-tart burst of cranberries – but also for its utterly delightful contrasting textures. Each Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Ball promises a wonderfully crisp exterior that yields to a moist, tender, and incredibly flavorful interior. Moreover, their individual form simplifies serving considerably, eliminating any mess and ensuring every guest receives a beautifully intact portion. This approach takes the stress out of holiday meal preparation while guaranteeing an unforgettable and visually appealing addition to your festive spread.

Ingredients:

For the Stuffing Base:

Stale Bread: 1.5 pounds (about 12-14 cups cubed) of day-old or lightly toasted bread. I personally love using sourdough, challah, or a good quality rustic white bread for its texture and flavor, but any sturdy bread will do beautifully.
Unsalted Butter: ½ cup (1 stick), melted. This will be our flavor foundation for sautéing our aromatics and adding richness to our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls.
Yellow Onion: 1 large, finely diced. The onion provides a lovely sweetness and aromatic depth once softened.
Celery Stalks: 3 medium, finely diced. Celery adds a subtle, fresh crunch and classic stuffing flavor.
Garlic Cloves: 4-5 large, minced. Because, well, garlic makes everything better!
Fresh Sage: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped. Sage is the quintessential herb for turkey and stuffing, bringing an earthy, aromatic note.
Fresh Thyme: 1 tablespoon, finely chopped. Thyme adds a delicate, slightly floral, and peppery nuance.
Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish. This brightens up the entire dish.

For the Flavor Boosters:

Dried Cranberries: 1 cup. These little gems provide bursts of sweet-tart flavor that perfectly complement the savory turkey and herbs in our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls.
Cooked Turkey: 2 cups, shredded or finely diced. This is where the “turkey” in our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls comes from! Leftover roast turkey, or even rotisserie chicken, works perfectly here. Make sure it’s fully cooked and cooled.
Chicken or Turkey Broth: 2.5 to 3 cups, warm. The broth is crucial for moistening our stuffing and infusing it with flavor. Adjust as needed to achieve the perfect consistency.
Large Eggs: 2, lightly beaten. Eggs act as a binder, helping our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls hold their shape beautifully.

Seasoning:

Kosher Salt: 1.5 teaspoons, or to taste. Always taste and adjust!
Freshly Ground Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, or to taste.
Ground Nutmeg: A tiny pinch (optional, but highly recommended). It adds a warm, subtle complexity that I absolutely adore in savory dishes.

For Baking:

Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: For greasing our baking sheet.

Prepping Our Foundation: The Bread and Aromatics for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

My culinary journey with these delightful Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls always begins with the bread. The foundation is key, and getting our bread just right ensures a stuffing that’s wonderfully textured, not soggy.

Prepare Your Bread: First things first, grab your chosen bread. I like to tear or cut it into roughly 1-inch cubes. The goal here is consistency so everything bakes evenly. If your bread isn’t day-old and a bit stale, don’t worry! You can easily get it to the right texture. Spread your bread cubes out on a large baking sheet and either leave them out uncovered for several hours or, for a quicker method, pop them into a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 15-20 minutes, tossing once, until they are dried out and slightly firm, but not browned. This drying step is super important because it allows the bread to soak up all the flavorful broth without turning into a mushy mess. Once dried, set the bread cubes aside in a very large mixing bowl; you’ll need plenty of room for mixing!
Sauté the Aromatics: Now, let’s build some flavor! In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt your ½ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is shimmering, add your finely diced yellow onion and celery. Sauté these vegetables gently for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’ve softened and become translucent. We’re not looking for any browning here, just a gentle softening to release their sweet flavors. This aromatic base is what gives our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls their comforting, classic taste.
Infuse with Herbs and Garlic: Once the onion and celery are tender, it’s time to bring in the big guns of flavor: garlic, sage, and thyme. Add your minced garlic, chopped fresh sage, and chopped fresh thyme to the skillet. Cook for just another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and the herbs are wonderfully aromatic. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Burnt garlic can turn bitter very quickly, and we want all those beautiful, warm, earthy notes to shine through in our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. Remove the skillet from the heat immediately after this brief sauté.

Crafting the Heart of Our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

With our bread prepped and our aromatics softened and fragrant, it’s time to bring everything together to form the delicious mixture that will become our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. This is where the magic really happens, and it’s important to mix with care to ensure a perfect texture.

Combine the Base Ingredients: Pour the hot aromatic mixture (onion, celery, garlic, herbs, and butter) directly over the dried bread cubes in your very large mixing bowl. Add the dried cranberries, which will plump up beautifully with the broth, and your shredded or diced cooked turkey. If you’re using leftover holiday turkey, this is an excellent way to give it a second life in a wonderfully flavorful new form! Also, toss in half of your chopped fresh parsley now; we’ll save the rest for a fresh garnish later.
Moisten with Broth and Eggs: In a separate medium bowl, lightly whisk your two large eggs. Gently pour the beaten eggs over the bread mixture. Then, slowly begin to add your warm chicken or turkey broth, starting with about 2.5 cups. Using a large spoon or, frankly, your clean hands (which I find is the best way to get a good feel for the mixture!), gently toss and mix all the ingredients together. The goal here is to evenly moisten all the bread cubes without completely saturating them to the point of mush. The bread should absorb the liquid and soften, but still retain some structure. If the mixture seems too dry, gradually add the remaining ½ cup of broth, a little at a time, until you reach a consistency where the mixture holds together when gently squeezed in your hand, but isn’t overly wet. It should be moist and cohesive, but not sloppy.
Season to Perfection: Now for the critical step of seasoning. Add your 1.5 teaspoons of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and the tiny pinch of ground nutmeg (if using). Gently mix again to distribute the seasonings evenly. This is the moment to truly make these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls sing. Taste a small spoonful of the mixture (it’s okay since all the turkey is cooked!) and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might find you want a little more salt, pepper, or even a touch more sage. Don’t be shy about tasting and tweaking; this ensures your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls will be bursting with flavor.

Forming and Baking Our Delicious Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

With our stuffing mixture perfectly seasoned and moistened, the next exciting phase is transforming it into individual, perfectly portioned Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. This method makes for an elegant presentation and ensures every bite is a delightful balance of crispy exterior and moist, tender interior.

Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to a comfortable 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, lightly grease a large baking sheet with olive oil or cooking spray. Alternatively, you can line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup, which is often my preferred method, especially during busy holiday cooking.
Form the Stuffing Balls: Now for the fun part! Take about 2-3 tablespoons of the stuffing mixture and gently but firmly roll it into a compact ball, roughly 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter. I find using a cookie scoop can help with consistency if you want very uniform Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. Place each ball onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each one to allow for even air circulation and browning. As you form them, you’ll notice how well the egg binder helps them hold their shape. Don’t compress them too tightly, as we want them to remain tender inside. This batch should yield approximately 24-30 Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, depending on their exact size.
Bake Until Golden and Delicious: Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven. Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are beautifully golden brown on the outside and heated through to the center. The precise baking time will depend on your oven and the exact size of your balls. Around the halfway point, about 15 minutes in, I like to gently rotate the baking sheet to ensure even browning. You can even give them a little flip with a spatula if you want them to be evenly crispy all around, but it’s not strictly necessary. What we are looking for is a lovely crisp exterior and a wonderfully moist and tender interior. If you’re unsure, you can always break one open to check the internal texture. They should smell absolutely divine, filling your kitchen with the comforting aroma of holidays!

Serving Suggestions and Extra Tips for Your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Congratulations! You’ve successfully created a batch of these incredible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. Now, let’s talk about how to present them, keep them delicious, and perhaps even get a head start on preparing them for your next gathering.

Garnish and Serve: Once your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for just 5 minutes. This brief resting period helps them set up and makes them easier to handle. Transfer them to a serving platter. Before serving, I love to sprinkle them with the remaining fresh chopped parsley. The vibrant green not only adds a beautiful pop of color but also a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish. These are absolutely fantastic served warm as a side dish with roast turkey, chicken, or pork. They also make an incredibly elegant appetizer, perhaps alongside a simple cranberry sauce for dipping, or even a savory gravy. Their individual portion size makes them perfect for entertaining!
Make-Ahead Magic: One of the best things about these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls is how well they lend themselves to make-ahead preparation, saving you precious time when you need it most. You can prepare the entire stuffing mixture (steps 1-6) a day in advance. Store the unformed mixture tightly covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply take it out, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then form and bake as directed. Alternatively, you can form the balls (step 8) and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them solid on the baking sheet, then transfer the frozen balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, you can bake them from frozen, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time, or until golden and heated through.
Storage and Reheating: Leftover Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful treat! Store any uneaten balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can pop them back into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. You can also gently reheat them in a microwave, though they may lose a bit of their crispiness. For best results, I always recommend the oven for reheating.
Creative Variations: While these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are perfect as is, feel free to experiment!
- Add Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts can add a wonderful crunch and earthy flavor. Add about ½ cup along with the cranberries.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper can give them a subtle kick.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in ½ cup of grated Parmesan or Gruyere cheese for an extra layer of savory richness. Add it with the broth and eggs.
- Vegetarian Option: Simply omit the cooked turkey for a delicious vegetarian stuffing ball. You might want to use vegetable broth instead of chicken/turkey broth in this case.
- Glaze Them: For an extra festive touch, you could brush them with a light maple-mustard glaze (1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp melted butter) during the last 10 minutes of baking. This creates a beautiful sheen and a sweet-savory crust.
No matter how you serve them or what delicious twists you add, these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser and a truly memorable addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! We’ve journeyed together through the delightful process of creating what I genuinely believe will become a new staple in your culinary repertoire. These aren’t just any stuffing balls; they are a symphony of flavors and textures, designed to elevate any meal they grace. I can wholeheartedly say that these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are an absolute must-try for anyone seeking to add a touch of gourmet comfort to their table. The perfect balance of savory turkey, tart cranberries, and aromatic herbs, all baked into a wonderfully crispy on the outside, tender on the inside bite-sized marvel, is simply irresistible. They offer all the beloved characteristics of traditional stuffing but with an enhanced elegance and, dare I say, an unparalleled convenience that truly sets them apart. Forget the soggy, shapeless stuffing of the past; prepare for a revelation that will impress even the most discerning palates.

What makes this recipe stand out is its incredible versatility and the sheer joy it brings to the dining experience. Each ball is a concentrated burst of flavor, making them ideal for portion control and ensuring everyone gets a perfect bite. They are the ultimate companion to your holiday turkey or roasted chicken, soaking up gravy beautifully and adding a delightful tang that cuts through the richness of the main course. But don’t limit yourself to just festive feasts! These stuffing balls are fantastic alongside a simple weeknight roast chicken or even as a sophisticated appetizer with a spicy cranberry dipping sauce. Imagine serving them at your next potluck or family gathering; they’re guaranteed to be a conversation starter and disappear in minutes. Their golden-brown exterior and moist interior make them visually appealing and incredibly appetizing, turning an ordinary meal into something truly special. Consider pairing them with a fresh green bean almondine or a vibrant sweet potato casserole for a truly harmonious spread.

The beauty of this recipe also lies in its adaptability. While I adore the classic combination described, I encourage you to make it your own! For those who prefer a nuttier texture, a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts can be folded into the mixture before forming the balls. If you’re a fan of a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes would add a delightful kick, particularly if serving them as an appetizer. Vegetarians in your household? You could easily adapt this by swapping the turkey sausage for a plant-based alternative or omitting it entirely, focusing on a rich vegetable broth and a medley of sautéed mushrooms for an umami boost. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also an excellent substitute to make this dish accessible to more of your loved ones without compromising on flavor or texture. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herb combinations; fresh rosemary or sage would be equally delightful additions, lending their unique aromas to the mix. You could even try adding a touch of orange zest for an extra layer of brightness, complementing the cranberries beautifully. The possibilities are truly endless, and each variation promises a new adventure for your taste buds.

Now, I’ve shared my passion for this dish, and I’ve given you all the tools and inspiration you need. The next step is yours! I truly hope you’ll carve out some time in your kitchen to create these magnificent Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. Gather your ingredients, put on some cheerful music, and enjoy the process of bringing this incredible recipe to life. There’s nothing quite like the pride of serving a homemade dish that elicits smiles and compliments from everyone at the table. And once you’ve experienced the magic, I absolutely implore you to come back and share your experience with me and our wonderful community. Did you try a unique variation? What did your family think? Your insights and feedback are invaluable, and I love hearing about your culinary adventures. So, go forth, bake, enjoy, and then share your delicious stories!

Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear all about your triumphs with this truly unforgettable recipe. It’s more than just food; it’s about creating memories and savoring every delicious moment.