Baked turkey stuffing balls with fresh cranberries and herbs

Savory Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Bites

Spread the love

Created on September 28th, 2025 at 01:49 pm

Golden, juicy, and bursting with festive flavor

These savory cranberry turkey stuffing bites are your new go-to for cozy fall meals or festive family gatherings. Packed with juicy ground turkey, fresh cranberries, and classic herbs, each bite is a mini celebration of flavor. Whether served as a side, snack, or main event, these easy stuffing balls bring a comforting twist to your seasonal table. With just 45 minutes from start to finish, they’re a reliable crowd-pleaser for weeknights or your next gratitude gathering. Bonus? They freeze beautifully—making them perfect for meal prep or last-minute hosting.

Fall holiday appetizer of juicy turkey and savory stuffing balls

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These stuffing bites combine hearty and tart in one irresistible bite. The soft, moist interior contrasts perfectly with the golden exterior, giving them that just-right crunch. You’ll love how easy they are to prep ahead, and the flavors only deepen after baking. Ideal for pairing with gravy or cranberry sauce, these balls shine as a unique turkey dish alternative—especially when you’re looking for different Thanksgiving recipes or new Christmas recipes. Whether for a festive potluck or a family comfort food night, these are sure to disappear fast!


⏱️ Time Breakdown

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Servings: 24 stuffing balls

📝 Ingredients List

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp dried sage
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • Olive oil (for drizzling)

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Mixing bowls
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Baking sheet

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
🔥 Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In a skillet, lightly cook chopped onion, celery, and garlic until softened (about 5 minutes).

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, sautéed veggies, breadcrumbs, cranberries, sage, thyme, salt, pepper, eggs, and chicken broth.

Step 4: Form the Balls
With slightly wet hands, roll mixture into 1 to 1½-inch balls. You’ll get around 24.

Step 5: Arrange & Drizzle
Place on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil.

Step 6: Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 7: Rest & Serve
Let cool slightly before serving. 🍴 Pair with gravy or cranberry sauce if desired!


💡 Pro Tips

  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer Friendly: Freeze before or after baking; reheat at 350°F until hot.
  • Meal Prep: Form balls and refrigerate raw (covered) up to 24 hours ahead.
  • Flavor Boost: Add chopped pecans or dried apricots for texture and depth.
  • Serving Idea: Serve with a small bowl of cranberry relish or creamy gravy for dipping.

📊 Nutrition Table

Serving SizeCaloriesProteinCarbsFatFiberSugar
1 ball885g4g5g0.6g1.2g

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.

Enjoyed this recipe? Leave a review!

There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.

Scroll to Top