Tired of the same old turkey sandwiches after Thanksgiving? Then get ready for your new favorite holiday hack — Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls! These golden, savory bites are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with that perfect mix of turkey, stuffing, and tangy cranberry flavor. It’s everything you love about Thanksgiving dinner, rolled into one bite-sized masterpiece.
I came up with this recipe one year when I had way too many leftovers — turkey, stuffing, and a jar of cranberry sauce just staring at me. I didn’t want another plate of reheated food, so I mixed everything together, baked it into little balls, and served them with gravy for dipping. My family devoured them in minutes. Now, they’ve become a yearly tradition that disappears faster than the pumpkin pie!
If you love clever, cozy dishes like my Christmas Bread Recipe or Sweet Potato Bowl Recipes, you’ll absolutely love this one.
What Makes Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls So Good?
Let’s be honest — holiday leftovers can get boring fast. But these little bites turn all that into something new, fun, and totally snackable. They’re crispy on the outside, moist inside, and packed with comforting flavor. You can make them ahead of time, freeze them, and reheat for parties or quick meals.
They’re also perfect for entertaining — pop them on a tray, add some toothpicks, and boom — you’ve got yourself the appetizer of the year.
For another easy, crowd-pleasing bite, try my Cranberry Walnut Cheese Balls. They pair beautifully on any holiday snack board!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s get this show on the road. Here’s what you’ll need to make your Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls:
For the Balls:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
- 2 cups prepared stuffing (any kind works!)
- ½ cup dried cranberries or leftover cranberry sauce
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional but delicious)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for color)
For Serving (optional):
- Gravy for dipping
- Extra cranberry sauce on the side
If you’ve tried my Creamy Bacon Potato Soup, you know I’m all about using what’s already in your kitchen — this recipe fits that philosophy perfectly!
Step-by-Step: How to Make Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.
Step 2: Mix It All Together
In a large bowl, combine turkey, stuffing, cranberries (or cranberry sauce), eggs, and cheese. Mix gently until everything comes together. The mixture should be moist enough to hold its shape — if it feels too dry, add a tablespoon of broth or water.
Step 3: Roll ‘Em Up
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls about the size of a golf ball. Place them evenly spaced on your baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and firm to the touch.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Serve warm with gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping. Every bite tastes like the best parts of Thanksgiving all rolled together!
If you’re making these for a party, pair them with my Grinch Dip for a colorful and fun appetizer spread.
Tips for Perfect Stuffing Balls
Use Moist Stuffing: If your stuffing is too dry, add a splash of broth — it helps everything stick together.
Crispy Finish: For extra crunch, spray the balls lightly with oil before baking.
Cheese Upgrade: Mozzarella melts beautifully and gives a gooey surprise inside each bite.
Make Ahead: You can mix and roll them ahead of time and refrigerate overnight or freeze for up to 2 months.
If you love simple tricks like this, you’ll enjoy my Pistachio Pudding Cookies — another easy, make-ahead recipe that always impresses.
Serving Ideas: How to Make Them Shine
These little bites are versatile — they’re perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. Try these fun serving ideas:
- Serve them on a charcuterie-style board with dips, cheeses, and fresh herbs.
- Pile them high on a platter and drizzle with warm gravy.
- Serve mini versions as finger food at your holiday party.
For a cozy winter dinner, serve them with my One Pot Potato Soup. It’s comfort food heaven!
Flavor Variations to Try
- Sausage Stuffing Balls: Add cooked breakfast sausage for a savory boost.
- Herb Lovers’ Mix: Mix in fresh thyme, sage, or rosemary for that classic holiday aroma.
- Cheesy Bites: Add a cube of cheddar in the center of each ball for a molten surprise.
- Glazed Version: Brush with melted butter and a touch of maple syrup before baking for a sweet-savory twist.
If you love reinventing holiday classics, check out my Christmas Fruit Cake it’s the sweet version of the same cozy spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these without cheese?
Absolutely. The cheese just adds richness but isn’t necessary for structure.
2. How do I keep them from falling apart?
Make sure your stuffing isn’t too dry and use enough egg to bind everything.
3. Can I air fry them?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning.
4. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of turkey?
Definitely — it works perfectly and saves time
The Final Bite: All the Holiday Flavor, None of the Fuss
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are the kind of recipe that turns leftovers into something completely new — crispy, comforting, and irresistibly festive. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main course, they’re bound to steal the spotlight.
Make a batch for your next gathering or whip them up for an easy family dinner. With this recipe, you’ll never look at holiday leftovers the same way again.
And if you’re building the ultimate Christmas menu, serve these alongside my Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters for a sweet ending that everyone will remember.