There’s something about the holidays that calls for cozy flavors, comforting textures, and shareable bites. Enter: Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls — the perfect answer to “What can I do with leftover turkey and stuffing?” or “What festive appetizer should I serve at my next gathering?”
These golden, juicy bites are more than just cute little balls of holiday joy. They’re loaded with all the best flavors of the season — savory turkey, hearty stuffing, tangy cranberries, rich Parmesan, and cozy herbs like sage and garlic. With a crisp outside and tender, flavorful center, each bite is like a mini Thanksgiving dinner.
They’re the kind of appetizer that makes guests pause mid-bite and say, “Oh wow — what is this?!”
Whether you’re planning your Thanksgiving menu, hosting a Friendsgiving, or just want to elevate a weeknight meal with something special, these stuffing balls deserve a front-row seat on your table.
Why Everyone’s Obsessed with This Seasonal Favorite
These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls aren’t just delicious — they check all the boxes for the ultimate holiday recipe:
- ✅ Quick & easy to make (less than 45 minutes from start to finish)
- ✅ Uses leftovers — zero waste, maximum flavor
- ✅ Perfect make-ahead appetizer or snack
- ✅ Kid-approved and fun to eat
- ✅ Great for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any winter gathering
Let’s not forget how beautiful they look! Speckled with ruby-red cranberries and fresh green herbs, these balls bring all the holiday vibes to your plate. Plus, they pair perfectly with cranberry sauce or gravy for dipping — and who doesn’t love a good dip?
You can serve them on a platter with toothpicks as party appetizers, or alongside mashed potatoes and green beans for a satisfying, no-fuss meal.
Ingredients Overview: What You’ll Need for These Holiday Bites
You probably already have most of the ingredients if you’ve cooked a turkey dinner recently. That’s part of what makes this recipe such a winner — it transforms leftovers into something new, exciting, and crowd-pleasing.
Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped
- 2 cups prepared stuffing (homemade or boxed)
- ½ cup dried cranberries (or cranberry sauce)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Let’s break down a few of the essentials…
3.1 Turkey: Fresh or Leftover?
This recipe shines with leftover turkey — dark meat, white meat, or a mix. Just make sure it’s finely chopped or even lightly shredded for best results. If you’re starting from scratch, rotisserie chicken or ground turkey can also work in a pinch.
3.2 Stuffing: Homemade vs Boxed
Either works! Homemade stuffing adds tons of flavor and texture, but boxed stuffing (like Stove Top) is a time-saving hero. Just make sure the stuffing is moist — too dry and the balls won’t hold together.
3.3 Cranberries: Dried or Sauced?
This comes down to texture:
- Dried cranberries add chewy, tart bites that pop in every mouthful.
- Cranberry sauce makes the mix a bit softer and adds more moisture.
Both options are delicious — choose what you have on hand or mix both for the best of both worlds.
3.4 Cheese, Butter & Seasonings
- Parmesan cheese adds umami and helps crisp the outer layer.
- Butter keeps things moist and rich.
- Sage, garlic powder, onion powder bring classic holiday flavor.
Kitchen Tools & Equipment
You don’t need any fancy gadgets to make these. Just the basics:
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oven
- Optional: Cookie scoop for even portions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s exactly how to bring these delicious bites to life — no stress, no complicated steps.
5.1 Preheat and Prepare the Tray
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease it with oil or butter. This helps the balls crisp up without sticking.
5.2 Combine Ingredients and Mix
In a large bowl, add:
- 2 cups chopped cooked turkey
- 2 cups prepared stuffing
- ½ cup dried cranberries or cranberry sauce
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
- Seasonings: sage, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper
- 1 egg (lightly beaten)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Use a spoon or clean hands to mix everything together. The mixture should be moist, but not soggy, and hold together when pressed.
If it feels too dry, add a splash of chicken broth. Too wet? Stir in some breadcrumbs.
5.3 Shape the Balls
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture per ball. Roll between your palms to shape them firmly.
Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing slightly apart.
This batch should yield around 12 hearty balls — or make 18–20 smaller ones for appetizers.
5.4 Bake Until Golden
Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside.
No need to flip them — just let the oven do its thing!
Once they’re done, let them cool slightly on the tray for a few minutes before serving.
5.5 Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.
For extra flair, add a few whole cranberries and a sprig of rosemary on the plate.
Serve warm with:
- Gravy
- Cranberry sauce
- Creamy mustard or aioli
Perfect finger food that looks and tastes impressive — but took less than an hour to make.
Tips for Perfect Stuffing Balls Every Time
Getting that perfect balance of crispy outside and juicy, flavorful inside might seem tricky — but with these tips, you’ll nail it every time.
Don’t Overmix
Mix until just combined. Overworking the mixture can make the balls dense or tough. Think light hands, not a gym workout.
Chop Ingredients Finely
Larger chunks of turkey or stuffing can cause the balls to fall apart. Aim for a consistent, even texture.
Use a Cookie Scoop
Not only does this make your life easier, but it also ensures each ball is the same size — meaning they’ll bake evenly. Uniform size = no dry or undercooked bites.
Grease Your Hands
When rolling the mixture into balls, lightly greasing your palms with oil or water helps prevent sticking and keeps your balls smooth (yes, pun intended 😄).
Keep an Eye on the Oven
Depending on your oven and how moist your mixture is, baking time may vary slightly. Start checking at 20 minutes. You want a golden crust but no burning.
Serving Suggestions: Turn These Bites Into a Meal
While these stuffing balls make excellent appetizers, don’t sleep on their potential as a full holiday meal component. Here’s how to elevate them:
- Holiday Lunch Platter: Serve 3–4 balls per person with mashed potatoes, green beans, and a drizzle of turkey gravy.
- Stuffed in Dinner Rolls: Slide a ball into a warm, soft roll, add a dollop of cranberry sauce or gravy — and you’ve got a festive sandwich.
- Breakfast Twist: Reheat a few balls and serve with scrambled eggs and toast the next morning.
- Brunch Board Addition: Add these to a board alongside quiche slices, roasted veggies, cheese, and fruit for an epic holiday brunch spread.
They’re super versatile and pair with just about anything you’d serve at Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Dipping Sauces That Take It to the Next Level
Sure, these cranberry turkey stuffing balls taste amazing on their own. But with a little dip? Pure holiday magic. Try these crowd-pleasers:
Classic Turkey Gravy
Nothing says comfort food like warm gravy. It soaks into the stuffing balls, making them extra luscious.
Cranberry Sauce
Sweet, tart, and festive. Use leftover cranberry sauce or whip up a quick version with fresh cranberries, orange juice, and sugar.
Creamy Herb Dip
Mix sour cream or Greek yogurt with chopped chives, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon for a tangy, refreshing dip.
Honey Mustard
A surprising combo — the sweet and tangy notes pair beautifully with the savory stuffing.
Tip: Serve on a platter with small ramekins of each sauce so guests can mix and match.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing Tips
The holidays are hectic. Thankfully, this recipe is a lifesaver when it comes to planning ahead.
To Make Ahead:
- Refrigerate the mixture in a covered bowl for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Or form the balls, place them on a tray, and cover with foil or plastic wrap in the fridge overnight.
To Freeze Before Baking:
- Form the balls and freeze them raw on a baking tray.
- Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to cook, bake from frozen at 375°F, adding 5–7 minutes to the cooking time.
To Store Leftovers:
- Store baked stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or in the microwave for 30–45 seconds.
Perfect for holiday leftovers or meal prepping a cozy weeknight dinner.
Print
Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Category: 🍽️ Holiday Appetizer / Side Dish
Description
🦃✨ A festive twist on classic Thanksgiving flavors! These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are golden, juicy, and packed with savory stuffing, tender turkey, and bursts of tart cranberry. Perfect as a holiday appetizer, side dish, or even a make-ahead snack for cozy family gatherings! 🍂💛
Ingredients
2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped 🍗
2 cups prepared stuffing (homemade or boxed) 🍞
½ cup dried cranberries (or cranberry sauce for a softer texture) 🍒
1 egg, lightly beaten 🥚
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
2 tablespoons melted butter 🧈
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon dried sage
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish 🌿)
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat and Prepare (10 minutes)
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with butter or oil.
2️⃣ Mix the Base (10 minutes)
In a large bowl, combine chopped turkey, stuffing, cranberries, Parmesan, and seasonings.
Add the beaten egg and melted butter.
Mix everything together until well combined — the mixture should be moist enough to hold its shape when rolled.
3️⃣ Form the Balls (10 minutes)
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball.
Place each one on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between them. 🍽️
4️⃣ Bake to Perfection (20–25 minutes)
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. 🔥
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
5️⃣ Serve & Garnish (5 minutes)
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. 🌿
Serve warm with gravy or a side of cranberry sauce for dipping — the perfect holiday bite! 😋
Notes
You can easily use leftover Thanksgiving turkey and stuffing for this recipe — a delicious way to reinvent leftovers! 🦃
If the mixture feels too dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of chicken broth or gravy to help bind it together.
Want a little crunch? Roll the balls in panko breadcrumbs before baking for an extra crispy coating. 🔥
These can be made ahead and frozen — just reheat in the oven before serving!
Serve with gravy, cranberry sauce, or even honey mustard dip for a festive flavor pairing. 😋
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 stuffing balls
- Calories: 210 kcal
How to Reheat Without Drying Them Out
Nothing’s worse than dry stuffing — but reheating these balls the right way keeps them moist and delicious.
Here’s how:
- Oven method (best): Preheat to 350°F. Place balls on a tray and cover loosely with foil. Bake for 10–12 minutes, removing foil in the last 2 minutes to crisp them up.
- Microwave method (faster): Wrap a few balls in a damp paper towel and microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. The towel helps prevent drying.
- Air fryer method (crispiest): Air fry at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, flipping once. Crispy outside, soft inside!
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How to Make This Recipe Healthier
While these bites are indulgent, you can absolutely lighten them up without losing that holiday magic.
Healthy Swaps:
- Use ground turkey breast instead of chopped dark meat for leaner protein.
- Skip or reduce the cheese if you’re watching fat or sodium.
- Choose whole wheat stuffing or homemade with whole grain bread.
- Add veggies like chopped spinach, kale, or even shredded carrot to sneak in more nutrients.
- Bake, don’t fry — thankfully, the original recipe already does!
One stuffing ball has around 210 calories, making them easy to fit into a balanced holiday menu.
Variations You’ll Want to Try
Once you’ve mastered the original, it’s time to have fun with flavor variations. These stuffing balls are endlessly customizable — here’s how to mix things up and make them your own:
1. Sausage & Apple Stuffing Balls
Swap the turkey for cooked sausage crumbles, and add finely diced apple for a sweet-savory combo. Sage and fennel go great here.
2. Vegetarian Stuffing Balls
Skip the turkey and double up on roasted mushrooms or butternut squash. Add chopped walnuts or pecans for texture and protein.
3. Spicy Southwest Version
Use shredded chicken or turkey, mix in black beans, corn, chopped green chiles, and pepper jack cheese. Serve with salsa or chipotle ranch.
4. Cheesy Jalapeño Cranberry Balls
Add diced jalapeños and extra cheddar cheese to the base mix. The cranberries provide a sweet contrast to the heat.
5. Italian-Style Turkey Balls
Add sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and mozzarella cheese. Serve with a marinara dipping sauce instead of gravy.
With just a few ingredient swaps, you’ve got endless holiday party appetizers that will keep guests guessing (and coming back for more).
Why This Is One of the Best Leftover Turkey Recipes
Raise your hand if your fridge is stuffed with leftovers the day after Thanksgiving. 🙋♂️🙋♀️
These stuffing balls are a genius way to repurpose turkey and stuffing that might otherwise go to waste. Rather than reheating the same old plate of leftovers, you’re creating something new, exciting, and totally crave-worthy.
And here’s the best part: no one will even realize they’re eating leftovers. In fact, they might ask you for the recipe thinking it’s a made-from-scratch gourmet appetizer!
If you’re hosting a post-holiday brunch, potluck, or just want to spice up that stack of Tupperware in the fridge, this is one of the best leftover turkey recipes you’ll ever try.
Similar recipes :
Meatballs with Grape Jelly and BBQ Sauce
Pecan Pie Balls
No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls
Perfect for More Than Just Thanksgiving
While these bites were inspired by Thanksgiving flavors, they deserve a place on your menu well beyond the holiday.
Serve them during:
- Christmas dinner or Eve parties
- New Year’s Eve gatherings
- Winter brunch spreads
- Game day snack boards
- January potlucks and office parties
Because the ingredients are pantry and fridge staples, you can make them any time of year. And because they’re quick and low-fuss, they’re great when you want something homemade and comforting without cooking an entire turkey.
Holiday Party Favorite: Why These Always Disappear First
No matter the setting — a formal dinner or a casual snack table — these stuffing balls always get picked clean. Here’s why:
- They’re bite-sized and easy to grab
- They look festive and colorful
- The flavor combo of savory turkey and sweet cranberry is irresistible
- You can pair them with a range of dips
- They’re warm, comforting, and packed with classic holiday flavors
If you want to be the person who brings the “most talked about appetizer” to your next event, this is your recipe. You’ll walk in with a tray and leave with an empty dish and a dozen compliments.
Conclusion
These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are more than just an appetizer — they’re a celebration of everything we love about holiday food: warmth, flavor, sharing, and making the most out of every bite (even the leftovers).
With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can create something that feels gourmet, festive, and unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, building a Christmas menu, or just want to try something new with your turkey stash, these stuffing balls are the perfect solution.
They’re cozy. They’re easy. And they bring people together — which is what the holidays are all about.
So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to impress your guests with a plate of these golden, cranberry-studded bites.
Happy holidays and happy cooking! 🦃🍒✨
FAQs
1. Can I use boxed stuffing mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s fully cooked and still moist. If it’s too dry, add a little broth to soften it before mixing.
2. Can I freeze stuffing balls after baking?
Yes. Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes.
3. What’s the best dip to serve with these?
Gravy is a classic, but cranberry sauce, honey mustard, or a herbed yogurt dip are all amazing choices!
4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Sure. Just omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative, and replace the butter with oil or plant-based margarine.
5. How do I keep the stuffing balls from falling apart?
Make sure your stuffing mixture is moist enough to hold its shape when rolled. If it crumbles, add a bit of broth or another egg to help bind it.
