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Cranberry turkey stuffing balls are the answer whenever I have leftover turkey and want something hands-on for gatherings or just a cozy side for Sunday dinner. Each bite lands the savory comfort of stuffing and the tart punch of cranberries in one tidy package. They are crowd-pleasers that also freeze brilliantly for busy weeks ahead.
In my family these always disappear before anyone gets to the main course My sister begged for the recipe after our first Friendsgiving when they disappeared before the turkey even left the oven
Ingredients
- Bread crumbs: provide the hearty base choose a rustic loaf for texture
- Cooked turkey: gives hearty protein finely shredded brings even flavor to each bite
- Dried cranberries: add sweet tart pops soak briefly in warm water if they feel too tough
- Onion: finely diced for flavor choose a fresh firm onion for best results
- Celery: adds crunch and freshness look for bright green stalks
- Fresh parsley: brightens the dish flat-leaf parsley is most fragrant
- Chicken broth: ensures moisture select low-sodium for more control
- Dried thyme: makes the whole kitchen smell like Thanksgiving buy recently dried for strongest aroma
- Salt: boosts all the flavors
- Black pepper: for mild heat grind fresh for best taste
- Large egg: binds everything together pasture-raised eggs have great richness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Get your oven ready at 375 degrees Fahrenheit Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up or lightly grease to prevent sticking
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl combine bread crumbs shredded turkey chopped dried cranberries onion celery and chopped parsley Make sure the mix is even so every ball has a perfect blend
- Season the Mixture:
- Add dried thyme salt and black pepper Spread the seasonings across the whole bowl and gently toss so every bite is flavorful
- Add Liquids and Bind:
- Pour in the chicken broth and crack in the egg Mix everything thoroughly with a sturdy wooden spoon or your hands Continue mixing until you notice all the bits coated and sticking together The mixture should be moist but never soggy If it looks dry add a spoonful more broth
- Shape the Balls:
- Scoop out two tablespoons of mixture for each ball Roll between your palms until compact Place onto the prepared baking sheet with a bit of space to help browning
- Bake the Stuffing Balls:
- Transfer the baking sheet into the preheated oven Bake for about twenty five minutes until the balls are golden brown on the outside and cooked through inside They should hold together perfectly but not feel dry
- Serve:
- Present warm as a savory side dish or an easy appetizer Arrange on a platter beside gravy or a dollop of extra cranberry sauce
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My favorite bite always includes a bit of crisp edge and a flash of cranberry I first made these for a family brunch and laughing over the last piece made it clear this recipe was a keeper The parsley always reminds me of my grandmother who grew it in her kitchen window
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Store leftover balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days They reheat quickly in the oven or air fryer for a crisp outside again For longer storage freeze the cooked balls on a tray then transfer to a bag and keep for up to two months Thaw overnight and reheat until warm
Ingredient Swaps
No turkey Use leftover cooked chicken instead Want gluten free Try gluten free bread crumbs Can t find cranberries dried cherries or chopped dried apricots are great too Feel free to toss in herbs like sage or rosemary if you love a stronger Thanksgiving note
Serving Ideas
Arrange around a bowl of rich gravy for dipping They make a perfect holiday party finger food Place toothpicks for easy grabbing Or stack them atop mashed potatoes and ladle with gravy for a multi-layered comfort meal
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Tradition and Tips
Stuffing balls like these nod to classic American holiday traditions but make entertaining easier than a casserole They fit right in at Thanksgiving tables Friendsgiving parties and as handheld snacks for winter game days Kids get excited for anything in ball form and there is something festive about tiny bites
Recipe FAQs
- → What helps the stuffing balls hold their shape?
The egg acts as a binder in the mixture, ensuring that the stuffing balls hold together as they bake.
- → Can I use leftover turkey for this dish?
Yes, leftover cooked turkey works perfectly and adds rich, tender flavor to the stuffing balls.
- → How do I keep the stuffing from drying out?
Add more chicken broth if the mixture seems dry before forming the balls. This keeps them moist and tender after baking.
- → Are fresh or dried cranberries better?
Dried cranberries are best here for a tart-sweet contrast and chewy texture that holds up during baking.
- → What sauces pair well with these stuffing balls?
Classic gravy or a homemade cranberry sauce make excellent accompaniments, enhancing both savory and sweet flavors.