Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

There are recipes you make once a year… and then there are those little treasures that become an instant tradition. These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are exactly that. Crispy on the outside, tender and savory inside, packed with roasted turkey, tart cranberries, and herb-loaded stuffing—each bite is like Thanksgiving in ball form.

They’re cozy, delicious, and incredibly versatile. Snack? Yes. Appetizer? Definitely. Leftover makeover? 100%. You might even find yourself making a whole turkey just to get to these!

Thank you so much for being here. Whether you’re a returning reader or just stumbled in looking for something festive and fun, I’m so grateful you’re cooking along with me. Want this recipe sent straight to your inbox with more holiday-worthy ideas? Subscribe below and join the flavorful fun!

What Are Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls?

These are exactly what they sound like—everything you love about a Thanksgiving meal rolled into one irresistible bite. Think: savory stuffing, shredded roasted turkey, and sweet-tart dried cranberries, all combined, rolled, and baked until golden and crispy.

They’re perfect for using up leftovers, but honestly? They’re so good, I make them from scratch even when it’s not the holidays. Serve them with gravy or cranberry sauce and watch them disappear.

Why You’ll Love These Stuffing Balls

• Perfect use for leftovers
• Crispy on the outside, tender inside
• Freezer-friendly and great for make-ahead meals
• Ideal for holiday parties, potlucks, or game day snacks
• Kid-friendly and endlessly snackable!

What Do They Taste Like?

Savory and herby from the stuffing and turkey, balanced with pops of sweetness from the cranberries. They’ve got that nostalgic holiday flavor—warm, earthy, slightly sweet, and deeply satisfying—all wrapped in a portable, dippable form. Dip them in gravy or cranberry sauce, and you’ve got an absolute flavor bomb.

Benefits of This Recipe

• No food waste—use up that leftover turkey and stuffing
• Ready in under 40 minutes
• One bowl + one pan = easy cleanup
• Can be prepped ahead and frozen
• Crowd-pleasing and portable

Ingredients for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

• 3 cups cooked stuffing (homemade or boxed—whatever you have)
• 1 ½ cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup chicken or turkey broth (plus more if needed)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work well)
• Optional for coating: ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch

For serving (optional):

• Warm turkey gravy
• Cranberry sauce
• Creamy mustard dip or aioli

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cookie scoop or your hands
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven (or air fryer!)

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

• No turkey? Use rotisserie chicken or cooked sausage
• Gluten-free? Use GF stuffing and check that broth and cranberries are GF
• Add veggies: Finely chopped sautéed celery or onion work great
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or some chopped jalapeños
• Cheesy version: Add shredded cheese inside or sprinkle some on top before baking

How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, mix stuffing, turkey, cranberries, eggs, broth, garlic powder, and seasonings. If your stuffing is dry, add more broth a tablespoon at a time until the mixture holds together when pressed.
3. Form the balls: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, roll mixture into 1 ½-inch balls. You should get about 18–22 balls, depending on size.
4. Optional—coat for crunch: Roll in panko breadcrumbs for a crispy finish (especially if your stuffing is on the softer side).
5. Bake: Arrange balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
6. Serve warm with gravy or your favorite dipping sauce!

Air Fryer Option: Preheat air fryer to 375°F and cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crispy.

What to Serve with Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

• Warm gravy for dipping (a must!)
• Cranberry sauce for a sweet contrast
• Mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a full meal
• Brussels sprouts or roasted veggies on the side
• Serve on a platter with toothpicks for a party appetizer

Tips for the Best Stuffing Balls

• If your stuffing is very dry, add extra broth or a splash of cream to help bind
• Want more flavor? Add chopped herbs like parsley, rosemary, or sage
• Let the mixture rest for 5–10 minutes before rolling to allow the bread to absorb the liquid
• Don’t overbake—they should be just golden and warmed through
• Leftovers? Pop them in the air fryer for the best texture when reheating

Storage Instructions

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze unbaked or baked stuffing balls on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Bake or air fry at 350°F until warmed through (about 10–15 minutes)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boxed stuffing mix?

Absolutely! Stove Top or any boxed stuffing mix works perfectly. Just prepare it first, then use it in the recipe.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Yes! Use veggie stuffing, omit the turkey, and add cooked lentils or sautéed mushrooms as a substitute protein.

Can I make them ahead?

Yes—form the balls and refrigerate (or freeze) until ready to bake.

Can I deep fry them?

Technically yes, but they can fall apart easily. Baking or air frying gives the best results with less mess.

Conclusion

Whether you’re using up leftovers or making them from scratch, these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are little bites of holiday heaven. They’re crispy, cozy, and packed with flavor—and you’ll be shocked how fast they disappear.

Print