Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls: Your Thanksgiving Must-Have

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls A Thanksgiving Delight

Truly a game-changer for your holiday table! Imagine the comforting flavors of a classic Thanksgiving stuffing, but perfectly portioned and beautifully crisp on the outside, tender on the inside. This ingenious twist takes all the beloved elements of traditional stuffing — the aromatic herbs, savory turkey, and tart cranberries — and transforms them into an irresistible, individual bite. No more struggling to scoop from a large, often unevenly baked pan; these delightful orbs offer a consistent burst of flavor in every mouthful, making them an instant favorite and a fantastic way to elevate your holiday spread.

Stuffing has long held a cherished place in American culinary traditions, particularly during the festive Thanksgiving season. From its humble origins as a practical way to extend a meal and flavor poultry, it has evolved into a centerpiece dish in its own right. What makes these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls A Thanksgiving Delight so special is how they honor this heritage while offering unparalleled convenience and an elegant presentation. Guests adore the ease of serving and the exquisite blend of sweet and savory notes with that satisfying textural contrast. It’s the ideal solution for those who crave the quintessential taste of Thanksgiving stuffing without the fuss, ensuring everyone gets a perfect, flavorful bite every time.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Stuffing Base:
  • 12 cups (approximately 1.5 lbs) day-old, stale bread, cut into 3/4-inch cubes. I find a good quality sourdough or a sturdy white sandwich bread works beautifully, lending a great texture and ability to soak up flavor. If your bread isn’t stale, you can spread the cubes on a baking sheet and bake at 250°F (120°C) for 15-20 minutes until dried out.
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter. Using unsalted butter allows us to control the seasoning precisely.
  • 2 large yellow onions, finely diced. These aromatic gems lay a sweet, savory foundation for our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls.
  • 4 stalks celery, finely diced. Celery adds a wonderful crunch and a classic stuffing flavor.
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced. Because, really, can you ever have too much garlic in a savory dish?
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey broth, warmed. Warming the broth helps the bread absorb it more readily, ensuring a moist and flavorful stuffing.
  • 1/2 cup fresh sage, finely chopped. Sage is the quintessential herb for Thanksgiving, and its earthy aroma is simply divine here.
  • 1/4 cup fresh thyme, leaves picked and finely chopped. Thyme adds a delicate, slightly minty note that complements the other flavors.
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish. Its fresh, peppery bite brightens the entire dish.
• For the Turkey & Cranberry Elements:
  • 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced into small pieces. Leftover Thanksgiving turkey is absolutely perfect for this – both white and dark meat work wonderfully to create these delightful Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls.
  • 1 cup dried cranberries. I prefer the sweetened variety for a lovely balance with the savory notes, but unsweetened works too if you prefer less sugar.
• For Binding & Seasoning:
  • 3 large eggs, lightly beaten. These act as our crucial binder, holding our stuffing balls together beautifully.
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or more to taste. Always taste and adjust!
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or more to taste.
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning for an extra layer of classic flavor, or a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg for warmth.

Preparing the Aromatic Stuffing Base – The Heart of Your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Creating the foundational stuffing mixture is where all the wonderful flavors truly begin to marry, setting the stage for these irresistible Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls A Thanksgiving Delight. Trust me, the aroma alone will have your kitchen feeling festive!

1. Prepare Your Bread: First things first, ensure your bread is properly prepared. If you’re starting with fresh bread, arrange your 3/4-inch bread cubes in a single layer on one or two large baking sheets. Pop them into a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re nicely dried out but not toasted or colored. You want them firm and absorbent, not crispy. Once dried, transfer all the bread cubes into your absolute largest mixing bowl – you’ll thank me for this advice later when you’re combining everything.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a very large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, melt your 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the finely diced yellow onions and celery. Stir frequently and cook until they are beautifully softened and translucent, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. This step is crucial for developing a deep, sweet flavor base. Don’t rush it; letting them caramelize gently brings out their best.
3. Infuse with Garlic and Herbs: Now, add your minced garlic to the skillet. Continue to cook for just 1-2 minutes more, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter quickly. Next, stir in your finely chopped fresh sage and thyme. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until these herbs release their incredible, earthy aromas. The scent alone is enough to transport you straight to Thanksgiving dinner!
4. Combine with Bread and Broth: Carefully spoon the entire hot aromatic mixture from the skillet over the bread cubes in your large mixing bowl. Add the fresh parsley now as well. Next, gradually pour in 3 cups of the warm low-sodium chicken or turkey broth, tossing gently with a large spoon or your impeccably clean hands. The goal here is to moisten the bread without making it soggy. I like to add the broth in stages, letting the bread absorb each addition before adding more. You want the bread to be tender and fully hydrated but still have some structure. If it feels a little dry, you can add the remaining 1 cup of broth, a little at a time, until you reach a consistency that’s moist but not swimming in liquid. Give it a good, gentle toss to ensure everything is evenly coated. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the bread to fully absorb all the liquid and flavors. This resting period is key for a consistently tender stuffing texture.

Incorporating the Star Ingredients & Binding – Crafting Your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Now that our stuffing base is rich with flavor, it’s time to introduce the stars of the show and bring everything together to form our delightful Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls A Thanksgiving Delight. This phase is all about balance and ensuring every bite is bursting with taste and holds its shape perfectly.

5. Add Turkey and Cranberries: To your moist stuffing mixture, add the 3 cups of shredded or diced cooked turkey and the 1 cup of dried cranberries. These additions not only give our stuffing balls their distinctive name but also provide wonderful textural and flavor contrasts – the savory turkey with the sweet-tart burst of cranberries. Gently fold these ingredients into the stuffing base until they are evenly distributed. You want to make sure every stuffing ball will have a bit of that wonderful turkey and cranberry goodness.
6. Introduce the Binder and Season: In a separate small bowl, lightly beat your 3 large eggs. Pour the whisked eggs over the stuffing mixture in your large bowl. The eggs are absolutely essential here; they will act as the glue that holds our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls together during baking. Now is also the time to generously season your mixture with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. If you’re using them, stir in the optional 1/2 teaspoon of poultry seasoning for that extra traditional kick or a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, subtle sweetness.
7. Gentle Mixing for Perfection: With your hands or a large sturdy spoon, gently mix all the ingredients together until everything is well combined. The key word here is “gently.” You want to ensure the eggs are thoroughly incorporated and all components are evenly distributed, but you do not want to overmix. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough stuffing balls, and we’re aiming for tender, flavorful Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. Taste a small bit of the mixture (before adding eggs, if you’re concerned about raw egg) and adjust the seasoning if needed. This is your chance to make sure the salt and pepper levels are just right for your palate.

Forming the Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls – Getting Ready for the Oven

The moment of truth! Shaping your stuffing mixture into individual balls is a satisfying step, and it sets the stage for beautifully golden and perfectly portioned Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls A Thanksgiving Delight.

8. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line one or two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. If you don’t have parchment paper, a light spray of non-stick cooking spray will work, but parchment is truly superior for even browning and easy release.
9. Forming the Balls: Using a 2-inch ice cream scoop or your hands, scoop out portions of the stuffing mixture and gently roll them into compact, uniform balls. I aim for balls about the size of a golf ball or slightly larger, approximately 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter. Uniformity is important for even baking, so try to make them as consistent as possible. Place the formed balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each one to allow for proper air circulation and even browning. Don’t crowd the pan, or your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls might steam instead of crisp up. If you have extra mixture, use a second baking sheet.

Baking for Golden Perfection – The Grand Finale for Your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

This is where the magic happens! Baking these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls A Thanksgiving Delight transforms them from a simple mixture into golden, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside bites of pure holiday joy.

10. Initial Bake: Carefully transfer the baking sheets to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. During this initial baking period, the exterior will begin to firm up and the flavors will deepen beautifully. You’ll start to notice a light golden hue forming around the edges.
11. Optional Crisping Step (My Secret for Extra Goodness): If you want to achieve an even crispier exterior and richer flavor, you can brush the tops of the stuffing balls with a little extra melted unsalted butter at this point. This step is entirely optional but highly recommended for that extra touch of deliciousness. Just a light brush will do the trick!
12. Final Bake for Golden Perfection: Return the baking sheets to the oven and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are beautifully golden brown all over and feel firm to the touch. When they’re ready, they should have a lovely, slightly crispy crust on the outside, while remaining wonderfully moist and tender on the inside. You might even hear a faint sizzling as they finish baking – that’s the sound of deliciousness!
13. Rest and Serve: Once baked to golden perfection, carefully remove the baking sheets from the oven. Let the Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls rest on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a serving platter. This short resting period allows them to set up slightly and makes them easier to handle. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few extra dried cranberries for a festive touch. These are incredible served warm as a side dish to your holiday roast, or even as delightful appetizers for a party. They offer all the beloved flavors of traditional Thanksgiving stuffing, but in a fun, bite-sized, and utterly irresistible format. Enjoy your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls A Thanksgiving Delight!

Conclusion:

So, my fellow food enthusiasts, we’ve journeyed through the delightful process of creating something truly special, a recipe that I wholeheartedly believe will revolutionize your holiday table and become an instant classic in your culinary repertoire. This isn’t just another side dish; it’s a thoughtful, flavor-packed creation designed to impress and satisfy, making every bite a memorable one. The convenience, the incredible taste, and the sheer elegance of these individual portions truly set them apart. I’m talking about a dish that takes the beloved flavors of Thanksgiving and elevates them into a perfectly packaged, irresistible sphere of pure joy. Imagine the rich, savory notes of tender turkey, perfectly seasoned with aromatic herbs, mingling with the bright, tart burst of cranberries, all encased in a deliciously crisp yet wonderfully moist stuffing. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes, carefully balanced to complement the festive spirit of the season.

I truly can’t stress enough why these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls A Thanksgiving Delight are an absolute must-try. They solve so many holiday hosting dilemmas! No more struggling to scoop stuffing from a hot, crowded casserole dish; instead, each guest receives their own perfectly portioned, golden-brown ball of deliciousness. They look fantastic on a plate, adding a touch of gourmet flair that suggests you’ve spent hours in the kitchen, even if you’ve cleverly prepped them ahead of time. Their individual nature also ensures a fantastic crispy exterior on every single piece, something that often gets lost in a large, communal stuffing bake. The juxtaposition of that slightly browned, herbed crust against the soft, moist interior, studded with cranberries and tender turkey, is simply divine. It’s a comforting, nostalgic flavor profile, but presented in a fresh, exciting way that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Meal

While these magnificent stuffing balls are undeniably the star alongside your roasted turkey, let’s explore how else you can serve and enjoy them. Naturally, they are an impeccable accompaniment to your traditional Thanksgiving feast, nestled beside a generous slice of turkey, a dollop of creamy mashed potatoes, a ladle of rich gravy, and perhaps some vibrant green beans or sweet potato casserole. But don’t limit their glory to just one day a year! Think about serving them as a sophisticated appetizer at your next holiday party; simply scale down their size slightly and offer them with a tangy cranberry aioli or a savory gravy for dipping. They also make a fantastic addition to a Sunday roast dinner, a hearty potluck contribution, or even as a unique component of a packed lunch the day after the big meal. For a delightful post-holiday treat, slice them up and add them to a turkey and cranberry sandwich, or even pan-fry them lightly to accompany a fried egg for a truly indulgent breakfast. The possibilities are truly endless, extending their delicious reach far beyond the main event.

Creative Variations to Inspire You

Feeling adventurous and want to put your own spin on this winning recipe? I encourage you to experiment! While the core flavors of Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls A Thanksgiving Delight are perfect as is, a few tweaks can personalize them even further. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider adding some crumbled cooked sausage (pork or chicken) in addition to or instead of the ground turkey. For an extra layer of texture and nuttiness, stir in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the mixture. If you love cheese, a quarter cup of grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar folded into the stuffing mix before forming the balls would be absolutely delicious. You could also swap out the dried cranberries for other dried fruits like chopped apricots or cherries for a different sweet-tart profile. For a gluten-free version, simply use your favorite gluten-free bread, ensuring it’s sturdy enough to hold its shape. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability, allowing you to tailor it to your family’s specific tastes and dietary needs while maintaining its essence.

Your Turn to Create and Share!

Now, it’s your turn! I genuinely hope you feel inspired and excited to try this recipe for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls A Thanksgiving Delight in your own kitchen. I promise you, the smiles and compliments you’ll receive will make every moment spent preparing them worthwhile. Cooking is an act of love, and sharing delicious food is one of life’s greatest pleasures. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to elevate your next gathering. Once you’ve made them, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any exciting variations? What did your family and friends think? Please don’t hesitate to share your stories, photos, and any brilliant tips you discover. Your feedback truly helps our community grow and inspires others to get cooking. Happy cooking, everyone, and may your tables always be filled with delicious food and joyful company!

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls A Thanksgiving Delight

Crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls offer perfectly portioned, flavorful bites. A delightful and convenient twist on classic Thanksgiving stuffing, featuring savory turkey and tart cranberries.

Prep Time
15 Minutes

Cook Time
40 Minutes

Total Time
55 Minutes

Servings
20-24 balls

Ingredients

• 3 cups prepared stuffing
• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chicken or turkey broth
• 1/4 cup peas (optional)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Cranberry sauce, for serving

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2
   In a large bowl, combine the prepared stuffing, cooked turkey, dried cranberries, chicken broth, peas (if using), beaten egg, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined.
3. Step 3
   Using an ice cream scoop or your hands, form the mixture into compact 1.5-2 inch balls. Place them 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Step 4
   Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the exterior is light golden. For extra crispiness, you can optionally brush the tops with a little melted unsalted butter at this point.
5. Step 5
   Return to the oven and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, until golden brown all over and firm to the touch.
6. Step 6
   Remove from oven and let rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cranberries, and serve warm with cranberry sauce.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.