Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

A Festive Favorite with a Savory-Sweet Twist

Let me tell you, these Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are the kind of holiday bite you dream about. They hit every note: savory ground turkey, tart-sweet dried cranberries, herb-infused bread cube stuffing—all rolled into golden, oven-baked appetizer perfection. Whether you’re gearing up for Thanksgiving, hosting a holiday party, or just craving something warm and cozy, this easy holiday appetizer belongs on your table.

Why You’ll Love These Homemade Stuffing Bites

• Flavor-packed: Think sage and thyme stuffing meets cranberry meatballs.
  
• Versatile: Serve ’em with gravy, cranberry sauce, or just a sprig of rosemary.
  
• Party-perfect: These turkey meatball appetizers are a hit for make-ahead holiday snacks.
  

Full Recipe for Festive Stuffing Balls

Ingredients for Turkey Stuffing with Cranberries

• 1 lb ground turkey
  
• 4 cups dried bread cubes
  
• ½ cup dried cranberries
  
• ½ cup chopped celery
  
• ½ cup chopped onion
  
• ½ cup chicken broth
  
• ¼ cup melted unsalted butter
  
• 1 large egg, beaten
  
• 1 tsp dried sage
  
• ½ tsp dried thyme
  
• ½ tsp garlic powder
  
• ¼ tsp salt
  
• ¼ tsp black pepper
  

Step-by-Step: How to Make Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Prep and Preheat for Oven-Baked Appetizer

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  

Step 2: Mix Bread Cube Stuffing Base

• In a large bowl, toss together the dried bread cubes, dried cranberries, chopped celery, and chopped onion.
  
• This forms the base of your bread cube stuffing with sweet and savory mix-ins.
  

Step 3: Season Ground Turkey with Poultry Seasoning

• In a separate bowl, combine the ground turkey with chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, sage, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  
• You’re building the foundation of flavor here with classic poultry seasoning.
  

Step 4: Combine Mixtures and Form Festive Stuffing Balls

• Fold the dry mixture into the turkey mixture until fully combined. Don’t overmix—just enough to bring it together.
  
• Use your hands to form 1-inch balls. You should get about 20-24 festive stuffing balls.
  

Step 5: Bake Baked Turkey Balls to Golden Perfection

• Place the stuffing balls on your prepared baking sheet.
  
• Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should be 160°F / 74°C).
  
• Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. That juice? That’s gold.
  

Pro tip: Don’t overcrowd your pan—it’ll steam, not sear. You want a nice crust on these baked turkey balls.

The Best Savory and Sweet Appetizers for Holidays

These are the homemade stuffing bites people talk about all season. Here’s why:

• Bite-sized and no utensils required.
  
• Pair beautifully with wine, cider, or eggnog.
  
• Go fancy: serve with cranberry sauce, gravy, or a rosemary sprig for garnish.
  

They’re the one-bowl holiday appetizers that do more with less. Great for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s parties.

Make-Ahead Holiday Snacks: Storage & Reheating Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  
• Freezer: Freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag for up to 2 months.
  
• Reheat: 10 minutes in a 350°F oven keeps ’em crispy.
  

This is a make-ahead holiday snack dream come true.

Easy Thanksgiving Side Dish & Serving Ideas

• Plate them with mashed potatoes and roasted veggies.
  
• Add a little flair with fresh rosemary or thyme.
  
• Let them shine as savory and sweet appetizers at your next gathering.
  

FAQ: Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

More & Related Ground Turkey Recipes

• Halloween Monster Meatball Sliders
  
• Savory Caramelized Onion Meatloaf
  
• Perfect Chicken Pot Pie
  
• 60 Fall Dinner Ideas
  
• Sweet Potato Cornbread
  
• Pumpkin Chili Recipe
  

Conclusion: Try This Quick Stuffing Recipe Today

These Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls are the real deal: festive, flavorful, and ready in 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for an easy holiday appetizer, a quick stuffing recipe, or just a new spin on ground turkey recipes, this dish delivers.

Try ’em out this season, impress your guests, and make your holidays a little more delicious. And hey, if you want more cozy, comforting recipes, be sure to follow my Pinterest page: Emilio Recipes.

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