Description
These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a festive holiday favorite, combining ground turkey, prepared stuffing, dried cranberries, and savory herbs into easy-to-make, flavorful bites. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any fall gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground turkey (85–93% lean)
- 1½ cups prepared stuffing (boxed or homemade, cooled)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup dried cranberries (or chopped fresh)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional for serving: turkey gravy or extra cranberry sauce
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Heat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine ground turkey, stuffing, egg, cranberries, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Do not overmix.
- Form Balls: Scoop 1½-inch portions and roll into balls. Place evenly on baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Rest for a few minutes.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with gravy or cranberry sauce.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Slow Cooker Option: Place cooked or raw balls in slow cooker with gravy; cook on low for 2–3 hours.
Notes
- Use leftover stuffing for extra holiday flavor.
- For gluten-free, choose gluten-free stuffing mix.
- Add chopped apples, raisins, nuts, or cheese for variation.
- Freeze before or after baking; reheat in oven or air fryer.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, salads, soups, or holiday sides for a full meal.
- Avoid overmixing to keep stuffing balls tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Holiday, Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball