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Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are displayed as the featured image for this savory recipe.
Lady Maria

Amazing Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

These Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful Thanksgiving appetizer, transforming holiday leftovers into bite-sized spheres of savory goodness. Combining turkey, stuffing, and tart cranberries, they offer a unique and flavorful twist on classic holiday flavors.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups cooked stuffing sage and onion recommended
  • 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or finely diced
  • 1/2 cup cranberry sauce, homemade or store-bought
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1 cup leftover gravy turkey or chicken, optional
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives for garnish, optional
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts optional
  • 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon optional
  • A pinch of red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper
  • Oven
  • Saucepan (for gravy dip, optional)
  • Small serving bowl (for gravy dip, optional)
  • Whisk or spoon (for gravy dip, optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked stuffing, shredded turkey, cranberry sauce, parsley, melted butter, and beaten egg.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. If adding optional ingredients like nuts or bacon, mix them in now.
  5. Using your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
  6. Place the stuffing balls on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are heated through and lightly golden brown.
  8. While the stuffing balls are baking (if making gravy dip), heat the leftover gravy in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  9. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of broth or water.
  10. Once heated through, pour the gravy into a small serving bowl and garnish with chopped fresh chives.
  11. Remove the Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
  12. Serve warm with the gravy dip (if using).

Notes

If the stuffing mixture seems dry, add a tablespoon or two of chicken or turkey broth to moisten it. If the stuffing balls are falling apart, add another beaten egg or a tablespoon of flour to help bind them. Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven, microwave, or skillet until warmed through. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or jalapeno-flavored cranberry sauce. Stir in shredded cheddar, Gruyere, or Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist. For a vegetarian option, omit the turkey and add cooked lentils, mushrooms, or chopped vegetables.