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A festive plate of cranberry and turkey stuffing balls served on a holiday table.

Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

These bite-sized cranberry and turkey stuffing balls are a flavor-packed twist on classic stuffing, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy dinners.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American, Holiday
Servings 12 stuffing balls
Calories 85 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey Choose turkey with some fat for moisture.
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Can use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
  • 1 small onion, chopped Adds flavor depth.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor.
  • 1 egg beaten Acts as a binder.
  • 1 cup cranberries, fresh or dried Soak dried cranberries in orange juice for more flavor.

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon sage Classic stuffing herb.
  • 1 teaspoon thyme Adds earthy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon parsley, chopped For freshness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt To taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper To taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg Optional for a holiday flavor.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped onions, garlic, sage, thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  • Add the beaten egg to the mixture and mix until well combined.
  • Gently fold in cranberries to ensure they are evenly distributed.

Shaping and Baking

  • Use your hands or a cookie scoop to shape the mixture into bite-sized balls.
  • Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  • For a crispier texture, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days; reheating tips include using the oven or air fryer for best results.
Keyword Cranberry Stuffing Balls, Easy Stuffing Recipe, Holiday Appetizer, Thanksgiving Recipes, Turkey Stuffing