Old-Fashioned Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

These are classic meatballs that combine ground turkey, bread stuffing, and cranberries. They’re a nostalgic nod to traditional Thanksgiving stuffing.

Easy Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls

Mix everything together quickly and bake — this version is perfect for weeknights or small gatherings.

Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

To make this at home, use 1 pound of turkey, 1 cup of stuffing mix, ½ cup broth, and seasonings. Bake until golden and serve with cranberry sauce.

Cranberry & Turkey Stuffing Balls Pioneer Woman

Inspired by the Pioneer Woman’s cozy cooking, this variation adds butter and fresh herbs but stays alcohol-free and pork-free.

Turkey And Stuffing Meatballs — A Comforting Holiday Classic

Description

These Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs bring all the warm, nostalgic flavors of the holidays into one easy, delicious recipe. Made with lean ground turkey, herby stuffing mix, and a hint of cranberry, they’re tender, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners, parties, or meal prep. No pork, no bacon, and no wine — just wholesome comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
1 cup boxed stuffing mix (herb-flavored)
½ cup chicken broth
1 large egg
¼ cup dried cranberries (optional)
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp dried sage (optional for extra holiday flavor)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, combine stuffing mix and broth. Let sit 3–5 minutes until softened.
In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, egg, parsley, cranberries, and seasonings. Add the softened stuffing mixture.
Gently combine until evenly mixed — do not overwork the meat.
Shape into 1½-inch balls and place evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F and are golden brown.
(Optional) For air-fryer method: Air fry at 375°F for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serve warm with cranberry sauce or turkey gravy.

Notes

For extra moisture, use a tablespoon of olive oil in the mix.

These meatballs freeze well. Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or over rice for a hearty meal.

Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and tender

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 22 minutes
Category: Main Course / Appetizer
Method: Baking / Air Frying
Cuisine: American, Holiday

Nutrition

Serving Size: 5 meatballs
Calories: 260 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 460 mg
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 28 g
Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: turkey and stuffing meatballs, cranberry turkey stuffing balls, easy holiday meatballs, Thanksgiving meatballs, turkey recipe