Thanksgiving is that magical time of year when family gathers around the table, and the aroma of savory dishes fills the air. Imagine biting into a crispy exterior that gives way to a flavorful stuffing bursting with cranberries and turkey, all perfectly seasoned. perfectly creamy mashed potatoes These Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls will have you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside, like a cozy blanket on a cold winter night. For more inspiration, check out this flavorful bourbon chicken recipe.
As I reminisce about past Thanksgivings, I can’t help but chuckle at the chaos that often ensues. From burnt pies to last-minute grocery store runs for forgotten ingredients, it’s always an adventure. But these stuffing balls? They’ve become my Thanksgiving superhero—easy to make and crowd-pleasing enough to win over even the pickiest eaters.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a perfect addition to your holiday feast
- Their delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors will impress everyone at the table
- The beautiful golden color adds visual appeal, turning any plate into a festive masterpiece
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as appetizers or side dishes during any gathering
I remember the first time I made these stuffing balls; my family couldn’t stop raving about them!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Turkey: Choose lean ground turkey for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
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Fresh Cranberries: Use fresh cranberries for their tartness; they contrast beautifully with the savory elements.
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Breadcrumbs: Opt for plain breadcrumbs as they absorb flavors well while adding texture.
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Onion: Finely chop onion for sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
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Celery: Diced celery adds crunch and freshness; don’t skip this vital ingredient!
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Herbs (Thyme & Sage): Fresh herbs bring depth of flavor; feel free to experiment with your favorites.
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Poultry Seasoning: A classic seasoning blend that enhances the turkey’s natural flavors.
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Eggs: Use eggs as a binding agent; they help hold everything together in those lovely balls.
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Chicken Broth: For moisture and extra flavor, chicken broth is crucial in keeping our stuffing balls juicy. chicken and stuffing combination.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop onions and celery finely—they’ll add great texture and flavor.
Mix Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, onions, celery, cranberries, herbs, poultry seasoning, eggs, and chicken broth until well blended.
Scoop and Shape Balls: Using your hands or an ice cream scoop, form mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through; your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Serve Warm with Dipping Sauce : Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly before serving warm with cranberry sauce or gravy for dipping.
These Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are not just easy to make but also offer an explosion of flavors that will leave your guests asking for seconds. delicious Thanksgiving finger foods Enjoy making these delightful treats that celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving! Southern Thanksgiving menu ideas.
You Must Know
- Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect blend of savory and sweet, making them a festive favorite
- Their delightful aroma fills your kitchen, evoking memories of holiday gatherings with family and friends
- These stuffing balls are easy to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking your turkey, then mix in the cranberry sauce and stuffing. Form into balls before baking for even cooking and a golden finish.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cranberries for raisins or add nuts for crunch. Experiment with spices like sage or thyme to create layers of flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through for best texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To make your Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls shine, use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor
- Avoid overmixing; it can lead to dense stuffing balls
- Bake them on parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfect browning every time
Thanksgiving without my stuffing balls feels like a party without music—awkward! Friends rave about them, claiming they’re the highlight of our holiday feast, often fighting over the last few bites.

FAQ
Can I make Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day prior and bake just before serving.
What can I substitute for turkey?
Chicken or vegetarian alternatives work well as substitutes in this recipe. For more inspiration, check out this comforting chicken chili recipe recipe.
How do I prevent my stuffing balls from falling apart?
Ensure proper binding with enough egg and breadcrumbs for structure while mixing.
Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Thanksgiving Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful addition to your holiday feast, combining savory ground turkey with tart cranberries for a burst of flavor in every bite. These crispy, golden balls are incredibly easy to make and perfect for sharing. With their festive appearance and mouthwatering aroma, they are sure to impress your family and friends, becoming a staple at your Thanksgiving table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 2 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tsp fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, breadcrumbs, cranberries, onion, celery, herbs, poultry seasoning, eggs, and chicken broth until well combined.
- Using your hands or an ice cream scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let cool slightly before serving warm with cranberry sauce or gravy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffing ball (40g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg



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