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Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls – The Perfect Festive Bite for Every Occasion

If you’re searching for a delicious, festive, and crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish, these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls will quickly become your new holiday essential. They combine the savory richness of tender turkey mince with the subtle sweetness of dried cranberries, the warm comfort of herbs like sage and thyme, and the crispy golden finish of classic stuffing. These stuffing balls have everything you love about traditional holiday stuffing — buttery breadcrumbs, fragrant herbs, and toasty edges — but with the added bonus of juicy turkey mixed right in. They’re easy to shape, simple to bake, and perfect to serve with gravy, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, or as a standalone snack. Whether you're preparing a Thanksgiving feast, serving a Christmas buffet, or simply craving a homemade comfort-food treat on a weekday, these stuffing balls deliver flavor, texture, and cozy holiday vibes in every single bite. With minimal prep and well-balanced ingredients, you’ll enjoy an incredibly satisfying dish that feels both nostalgic and modern.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 16 stuffing balls
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meats
  • 500 g turkey mince
Fruits & Vegetables
  • 2 tbsp dried cranberries
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp dried sage
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
Fresh Products
  • 1 egg
Spices
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Oils & Vinegars
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for cooking onion and garlic
  • Additional olive oil for brushing
Breads & Bakery
  • 200 g fresh breadcrumbs
Dairy
  • 50 g butter unsalted

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Baking tray
  • Parchment paper
  • Skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Oven (preheated to 375°F / 190°C)

Method
 

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the finely chopped onion.
  3. Cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing Mixture
  1. In a large mixing bowl, add the turkey mince.
  2. Add the sautéed onion and garlic.
  3. Stir in the dried cranberries.
  4. Add the dried sage and dried thyme.
  5. Sprinkle in the salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Add the fresh breadcrumbs.
  7. Melt the butter, then pour it over the mixture.
  8. Add the egg.
  9. Mix everything thoroughly using your hands or a spoon until fully combined.
Step 3: Shape the Stuffing Balls
  1. Scoop a portion of the mixture (about 2 tablespoons).
  2. Roll it into a firm, round ball.
  3. Place each stuffing ball onto a parchment-lined baking tray.
  4. Repeat until all mixture is used — you should get 12–16 balls depending on size.
  5. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil for extra crispiness.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) if you haven't already.
  2. Place the tray in the oven.
  3. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and fully cooked through.
  4. If you want extra browning, broil for the last 1–2 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
  1. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
  2. Serve warm with gravy, cranberry sauce, or alongside any holiday meal.
  3. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigeration
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Freeze raw or cooked stuffing balls for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Oven: 350°F for 10 minutes
Air fryer: 375°F for 5–6 minutes
Microwave: 30–45 seconds (softest option)
🥄 Variations
Cheesy Version: Add 1/4 cup grated parmesan to the mixture.
Extra Herby: Add parsley, rosemary, or chives.
Sweet & Savory: Add chopped apples or extra cranberries.
Crunchy Top: Roll stuffing balls in extra breadcrumbs before baking.
Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or smoked paprika.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Moist & Rich: Add 2 tbsp chicken broth to the mix.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes! Ground chicken works perfectly.
Can I use panko instead of fresh breadcrumbs?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly lighter.
Do I need to soak the cranberries?
No — they soften nicely during baking.
Can I make these ahead for holidays?
Absolutely — shape them 1 day ahead and refrigerate.
Why are my stuffing balls dry?
Add a little melted butter or broth next time.
Can I fry them instead of baking?
Baking is best for even cooking, but air frying also works.
Are these freezer-friendly?
Yes — freeze before or after cooking.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes — grated carrot, celery, or zucchini work well.
Can I make them egg-free?
Use 2 tbsp mashed potato or 1 tbsp mayo as a binder.
What can I serve them with?
Gravy, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or cranberry sauce.
🏁 Conclusion
These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls bring together the best flavors of comfort food and the festive season. Each bite is savory, tender, slightly sweet, and wonderfully aromatic. With simple ingredients and effortless preparation, they make the perfect addition to any holiday table, potluck, or weeknight dinner. Whether served as a side dish or eaten on their own, they deliver comfort, warmth, and delicious satisfaction every time.