Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are little bites packed with all the best holiday flavors. They’re made with savory turkey and classic stuffing, mixed with tart cranberries that add a fresh pop to every bite. These balls are crispy on the outside and soft in the center, making them a perfect finger food for any gathering.
I love making these stuffing balls when I want something fun and easy to snack on while cooking a big holiday meal. They’re great warm or even at room temperature, so I often set them out as an appetizer before dinner. The cranberries give them a subtle sweetness that balances out the rich turkey and herbs, and I always get asked for the recipe when I bring them along.
One of my favorite ways to serve these is with a small bowl of gravy on the side, so everyone has the option to dip. They also hold up well in lunch boxes or as leftovers, which is a big win in my book. If you want to add a little extra crunch, a sprinkle of toasted pecans or a drizzle of honey can really make these stuffing balls even more special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground turkey: This adds great flavor without being too heavy. If you don’t have turkey, ground chicken, or even cooked shredded chicken works well.
Stuffing mix: Breadcrumb or cornbread stuffing both work. You can swap for gluten-free stuffing if needed — just ensure it absorbs moisture well.
Dried cranberries: These add a tangy touch. If unavailable, chopped dried cherries or raisins make a nice substitute.
Celery and onion: They give crunch and fresh flavor. If you prefer, finely chopped bell peppers or carrots could be interesting swaps.
Eggs and broth: Eggs bind everything together, and broth adds moisture. For a vegan version, try flax eggs with vegetable broth.
How Do I Get My Stuffing Balls Crispy Outside but Soft Inside?
Getting that perfect crunch outside while keeping the inside moist is key. Here’s what helps:
- Make sure the mixture is moist but not too wet. Add broth little by little until it holds shape.
- Heat your oil or butter over medium. Too hot and the outside burns before inside cooks; too low and they get soggy.
- Cook in batches so balls aren’t crowded — this keeps the heat even around each one.
- Turn gently with a spatula every 4-5 minutes for a golden crust all around.
- Drain on paper towels briefly to remove excess oil after cooking.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – I like using this because it’s easy to combine all the ingredients in one spot.
- Small scoop or spoon – helps shape the mixture into even, bite-sized balls quickly.
- Skillet or frying pan – a non-stick pan works best for crispy, evenly browned balls.
- Spatula or tongs – for turning the balls gently without breaking them apart.
- Paper towels – to drain excess oil and keep the balls crispy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked shredded chicken or leftover ham instead of turkey for a different meat flavor.
- Mix in chopped apples or pecans for added crunch and sweetness.
- Try different herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fresh twist.
- Serve with different dips such as honey mustard or a creamy ranch for variety.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – for mixing all the ingredients together easily.
- Small scoop or spoon – to shape your stuffing balls evenly and quickly.
- Skillet or frying pan – a non-stick pan works best to get them crispy without sticking.
- Spatula or tongs – to carefully flip the balls while frying.
- Paper towels – for draining excess oil after frying, keeping the balls crispy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground turkey for shredded chicken or cooked ham for a different twist.
- Add chopped apples or toasted pecans for extra crunch and a touch of sweetness.
- Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of (or alongside) sage for a fresh flavor change.
- Serve with a variety of dips such as honey mustard, creamy ranch, or extra cranberry sauce to keep things interesting.
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure the turkey is fully thawed before using. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat it dry before mixing to avoid adding extra moisture.
Can I Bake These Stuffing Balls Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the balls on a greased baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to keep the outside crispy, or microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the mixture and shape the balls, then refrigerate them on a tray covered with plastic wrap for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes entertaining much easier!
