Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls (Your New Holiday MVP!)

If you’re looking for a holiday appetizer that literally disappears the moment it hits the table, you’re going to adore these Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. They’re cozy, sweet, savory, and such a clever way to use up leftover turkey. And let’s be honest—during the holiday chaos, anything that saves time while still tasting amazing feels like a Christmas miracle.

As always, I’m Luma from recipeshall.com, and from my kitchen to yours, this recipe is one of those little treats that sparks big smiles. It reminds me of the warmth and creativity that made me fall in love with cooking as a kid. And trust me: these stuffing balls are exactly the kind of dish that makes hosting feel fun instead of stressful.

⭐ Why You’ll Love These Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Let’s paint the picture: you’re juggling holiday shopping, guests, gift wrapping, and maybe even a few sugar-fuelled kids running around. So the last thing you need is a complicated, 42-step recipe.

Here’s why this one is a keeper:

• They’re quick to mix together—no fancy equipment.
• They’re budget-friendly, especially if you’re using Thanksgiving turkey leftovers.
• They’re portable, perfect for potlucks and holiday parties.
• They fill your kitchen with the most comforting smell… the kind that feels like a warm hug on a cold evening.
• They look so cute and festive that your guests will assume you worked way harder than you did.

And if you’re already planning your holiday meal, you may also want to explore other cozy recipes like my Cheesy Baked Broccoli Casserole or the delicious Herb Butter Roast Chicken—perfect for rounding out a holiday spread.

🛒 Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped
• 2 cups prepared stuffing (boxed or homemade—zero judgment here!)
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup turkey gravy (optional, for moisture)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried sage
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Melted butter or olive oil spray
• Fresh rosemary for serving (optional but festive)

👩‍🍳 How to Make Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1 — Preheat & Prep

Warm your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment. No parchment? A light oil spritz works too.

Step 2 — Combine the Magic

In a large bowl, mix the chopped turkey, stuffing, cranberries, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, sage, salt, and pepper. Add a splash of gravy if your mixture feels dry. It should be a little sticky but easy to roll.

Tip: If it crumbles, add 1–2 tablespoons of broth or water.

Step 3 — Roll Into Balls

Scoop and roll the mixture into golf-sized balls. About 15–18 balls depending on your scoop.

This part always reminds me of helping my mom roll cookies during the holidays. Except now it smells more like Thanksgiving and less like chocolate chips.

Step 4 — Bake

Place the balls on your tray and brush with melted butter (for that golden crunch) or spray lightly with oil. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges turn beautifully crisp.

Step 5 — Serve with Sauce

Pair with warm gravy, cranberry sauce, or a creamy herb dip. Trust me—this is where the magic happens.

💡 Tips for Perfect Stuffing Balls

• Keep it sticky: If the mixture is too dry, they won’t hold shape. Add a spoonful of gravy.
• Add cheese: Parmesan or sharp cheddar takes these to “chef’s kiss” level.
• Mix up the meat: Swap turkey for chicken or even cooked sausage.
• Air fryer approved: 370°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping once. Easy peasy!
• Make ahead: Roll the balls, refrigerate, and bake just before serving. Perfect for busy hosts.

And if you’re looking for more holiday-ready appetizers, you might love my Crispy Garlic Parmesan Turkey Bites—another crowd pleaser!

❤️ A Little Story from My Kitchen

I created these stuffing balls after hosting my first big family Thanksgiving. I had an embarrassing amount of leftovers—like “need a second fridge” level leftovers. Instead of reheating turkey again and again (I could practically hear my family groaning), I rolled everything into these bite-sized beauties.

They were gone in minutes. Kids loved them. Adults loved them. Even my husband, who claims he’s “not a stuffing guy,” grabbed four.

Ever since then, they’ve become a holiday tradition in my home—and I hope they’ll bring a little joy into yours too.

❓ FAQs About Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. Roll them up, store in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then bake.

Can I freeze them?

Yes! After baking, freeze on a tray, then store in a bag up to 2 months. Reheat at 350°F for 12 minutes.

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Totally. This recipe works beautifully with cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken.

What dip goes best with these?

Cranberry sauce for sweetness, gravy for richness, or a garlic herb dip for balance.

The holidays can be hectic, but recipes like Festive Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls make things feel fun again. Whether you’re hosting, attending a potluck, or just want a cozy seasonal snack, these little bites bring cheer to every table.