Print

Savory Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

cranberry turkey stuffing balls - featured image
Print Recipe

These bite-sized stuffing balls combine juicy turkey, sweet-tart cranberries, and fresh herbs for a festive, crowd-pleasing appetizer. Perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or anytime you crave classic comfort food in a fun, easy-to-serve package.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked turkey breast, shredded or finely chopped
  • 4 cups day-old bread, cubed (sourdough or whole wheat recommended)
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped (or 1/2 tablespoon dried sage)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup chicken or turkey broth
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 small onion, finely diced (about 1/2 cup)
  • 2 stalks celery, finely diced (about 1/2 cup)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery, sauté until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). Let cool slightly.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cubed bread, cooked turkey, sautéed onion and celery, dried cranberries, parsley, sage, and thyme.
  4. Pour in melted butter, broth, and beaten eggs. Sprinkle over salt and pepper. Stir gently until everything is combined and the bread absorbs most of the liquid.
  5. If the mixture feels dry, add 1-2 tablespoons more broth. If too wet, add a bit more bread.
  6. Shape mixture into balls about 1.5 inches in diameter using a cookie scoop or your hands. Place on the lined baking sheet, spacing about 1 inch apart.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden and firm to the touch. Rotate tray halfway through for even browning.
  8. Let stuffing balls cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use day-old bread for best texture; toast fresh bread if needed. For gluten-free, use GF bread. Vegetarian option: swap turkey for mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth. If mixture is too wet or dry, adjust with more bread or broth. Can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking. Serve with cranberry sauce, gravy, or yogurt dip.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffing balls, turkey appetizer, cranberry stuffing, holiday appetizer, Thanksgiving, party food, finger food, easy appetizer, festive recipe

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/savory-cranberry-turkey-stuffing-balls-recipe-easy-holiday-party-appetizer/