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Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls – A Comforting Holiday Classic Made Easy

  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 18–24 stuffing balls 1x

Description

These Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are a festive, handheld twist on traditional holiday flavors. Packed with juicy turkey, herby stuffing, and sweet cranberries, they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect for Thanksgiving, holiday parties, or as a creative way to use leftovers, these stuffing balls can be baked, air-fried, or even slow-cooked for effortless preparation.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped (about 450g)
  • 4 cups prepared stuffing (about 400g)
  • ½ cup (60g) dried cranberries
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • ½ cup (60g) grated cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • Olive oil spray or 2 tbsp oil (for baking/frying)
  • Optional Glaze:
  • ¼ cup cranberry sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine turkey, stuffing, cranberries, and cheese (if using). Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the Binders: Mix in the beaten eggs. If mixture is too dry, add 1 tbsp broth or water until it holds together.
  3. Form the Balls: Shape mixture into 1.5-inch balls using hands or scoop. Place on a lined baking sheet and spray lightly with oil.
  4. Bake or Air Fry: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden. Or air fry at 370°F (185°C) for 10–12 minutes.
  5. Add Optional Glaze: Mix cranberry sauce, honey, and mustard. Brush over cooked balls and return to oven for 3–5 minutes.
  6. Slow Cooker Option: Place uncooked balls in a greased slow cooker. Cook on low 3–4 hours or high 2 hours, until firm and heated through.

Notes

  • If stuffing is dry, rehydrate with a little broth.
  • Do not overmix—this keeps balls tender.
  • Finely chop turkey for best binding.
  • Spray or brush tops with oil to ensure crispness.
  • Uncooked or cooked balls can be frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
  • Method: Bake, Air Fry, Slow Cook
  • Cuisine: American, Holiday

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 balls
  • Calories: 140
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, Thanksgiving Appetizer, Holiday Leftovers Recipe, Stuffing Ball Recipe, Turkey Cranberry Meatballs

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Find it online: https://lyndyskitchen.com/cranberry-and-turkey-stuffing-balls/