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A close-up shot showcasing the delicious golden-brown Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls, perfect for Thanksgiving.

Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Ultimate

Avatar photoAmelia Chen-Morrison
Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a delightful appetizer with these Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. Savory stuffing, sweet-tart cranberries, and tender turkey combine in a perfectly formed ball, fried to golden perfection. This recipe is an easy and irresistible way to reinvent familiar flavors.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Plastic Wrap
  • Clean work surface
  • Skillet or Dutch oven
  • Thermometer (optional)
  • Slotted spoon
  • Plate
  • Paper towels
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
  • 4 cups prepared stuffing homemade or store-bought
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce homemade or store-bought
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Chopped fresh herbs parsley, thyme, sage

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, gently combine the shredded turkey, prepared stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
  • Pour the beaten eggs over the mixture and gently fold until everything is evenly moistened.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Spread some flour on a clean work surface.
  • Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the stuffing mixture and gently roll it into a ball.
  • Roll each ball in the flour, making sure it's evenly coated.
  • Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a large skillet or Dutch oven.
  • Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  • Carefully drop the stuffing balls into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
  • Fry them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they're golden brown and crispy all over.
  • Remove the stuffing balls from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

If the stuffing mixture is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. Make sure your oil is hot enough to avoid soggy balls. You can keep them warm in a low oven (200°F/95°C) until ready to serve. For a sweeter twist, try adding a drizzle of maple syrup or honey. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. Adding cheese such as shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan cheese can also be a great addition. You can freeze the stuffing balls for up to 2 months.