These cranberry–turkey stuffing balls deliver classic holiday flavors in an efficient, weeknight-friendly format. Ground turkey, dried cranberries, aromatics, and stuffing mix bind with egg and broth for structure and moisture. Bake until lightly crisp outside and 165°F (74°C) within, then pair with a quick pan gravy. Serve as an appetizer, entrée with greens, or as a modern take on Turkey And Stuffing Balls. The method scales well, holds on warm, and offers air fryer and slow cooker holding options for events. Ideal for New Christmas Recipes and Different Thanksgiving Recipes alike.
Time Breakdown
- Prep: 15–20 minutes
- Cook: 20–22 minutes
- Total: ~40 minutes
- Servings: 6 (18 balls)
Ingredients List
- 450 g ground turkey
- 90 g stuffing mix (2 cups) or 120 g fresh breadcrumbs (2 cups)
- 70 g dried cranberries, chopped
- 60 g celery, fine dice
- 35 g onion, fine dice
- 1 large egg
- 180 ml broth (start with ¾ cup; add 1–2 Tbsp if needed)
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning; ½ tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp black pepper
- 15 ml olive oil
- Gravy: 28 g butter; 16 g flour; 360 ml broth; salt/pepper
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.
- Mixing bowls, sheet pan, parchment
- Measuring tools
- Saucepan + whisk
- Digital thermometer
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat oven to 400°F/205°C; line and oil pan.
- Mix turkey, stuffing, cranberries, veg, egg, ¾ cup broth, seasoning, salt, pepper, and oil.
- Form 18 balls (~1½ in).
- Bake 20–22 min to 165°F/74°C.
- Make gravy: butter + flour 1 min; whisk in broth; simmer to coat a spoon.
- Serve with gravy or cranberry relish.
Pro Tips
- Texture control: Add broth 1 Tbsp at a time until mixture holds but isn’t wet.
- Air fryer: 375°F/190°C, 10–12 min.
- Hold & serve: Keep baked balls on WARM in slow cooker with ¼ cup broth.
- Swap: Replace cranberries with chopped sage and parsley for a savory version.
Nutrition
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 balls + 2 Tbsp gravy | ~405 | ~27 g | ~37 g | ~14 g | ~3 g | ~9 g |