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Healthy Holiday Appetizer: Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls transform classic Thanksgiving flavors into bite-sized, protein-packed appetizers. With lean turkey, tart cranberries, herbs, and a golden-brown finish, they deliver more flavor and convenience than traditional stuffing—perfect for holidays, parties, or family meals.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 24 balls
Course: Appetizer, Comfort Food, Holiday
Cuisine: American
Calories: 140
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs panko works well
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 1 celery stalk finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp dried sage or 1 tbsp fresh
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or 1 tbsp fresh
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • Olive oil for drizzling

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment and grease lightly.
  2. In a large bowl, combine onion, celery, and garlic.
  3. Add breadcrumbs, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix to distribute seasonings.
  4. Stir in ground turkey and cranberries. Mix gently without overworking.
  5. Add eggs and chicken broth. Fold until mixture holds together but is not too wet.
  6. Form 1½-inch balls using a scoop or hands. Place evenly on baking sheet.
  7. Drizzle lightly with olive oil. Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Notes

Avoid overmixing the turkey mixture to keep the stuffing balls tender. Fresh cranberries add bursts of flavor, but dried cranberries can be used if soaked beforehand.