Savory Turkey Cranberry Stuffing Bites
These Savory Turkey Cranberry Stuffing Bites take everything you love about a traditional holiday meal and roll it into a golden, bite-sized treat. Juicy turkey, tart cranberries, and seasoned stuffing come together with melted cheese for a flavor-packed appetizer or side dish that’s festive, hearty, and absolutely delicious.
They’re perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, holiday parties, or as a creative way to give new life to leftover turkey and stuffing. Serve them warm with a side of gravy or cranberry sauce, and watch them disappear fast.
What You’ll Need
- Cooked stuffing – Any variety works, whether it’s homemade or from a boxed mix.
- Cooked turkey – Shredded or finely chopped. Chicken works as a substitute, too.
- Dried cranberries – Add a sweet-tart pop that balances the savory flavors.
- Shredded cheese – Mozzarella, Swiss, or cheddar for a gooey touch.
- Egg – Helps bind everything together.
- Butter – Adds moisture and richness.
- Garlic powder, onion powder, sage – For that classic holiday seasoning.
- Salt and black pepper – To enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Savory Turkey Cranberry Stuffing Bites
STEP 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
STEP 2: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked stuffing, chopped turkey, cranberries, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, sage, salt, and pepper.
STEP 3: Add the melted butter and beaten egg, stirring until the mixture holds together. If it feels too dry, mix in a tablespoon or two of broth or water.
STEP 4: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture per bite and roll into firm balls (about golf ball size). Arrange evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
STEP 5: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
STEP 6: Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with turkey gravy, cranberry sauce, or even a creamy mustard aioli for dipping.
- They make a great appetizer, but can also double as a side dish alongside mashed potatoes and vegetables.
- For a festive presentation, sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
Tips & Variations
- Make-ahead option: Form the stuffing balls and refrigerate up to a day in advance before baking.
- Add crunch: Stir in some chopped pecans or walnuts for texture.
- Cheese swap: Smoked gouda or gruyère add a gourmet twist.
- Leftover magic: Perfect for using post-holiday turkey and stuffing — no one will guess they’re leftovers!
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again.
With their crispy edges, tender centers, and irresistible blend of savory and sweet, these Savory Turkey Cranberry Stuffing Bites are proof that holiday leftovers can be every bit as delicious as the main feast — maybe even better.
Savory Turkey Cranberry Stuffing Bites
Ingredients
- 1 large egg whisked gently until blended
- ½ teaspoon dried onion powder
- 1½ cups leftover cooked turkey finely minced
- A light spray of oil or a dab of neutral cooking fat for the baking tray
- ½ cup tart dried cranberries roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon granulated garlic powder
- 3 cups prepared stuffing made from scratch or box mix
- ½ cup grated cheese mozzarella, Swiss, or cheddar—your choice
- ½ teaspoon dried sage optional, for seasonal aroma
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a baking sheet with oil or line with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared stuffing, minced turkey, cranberries, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, sage (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Pour in the melted butter along with the beaten egg. Stir thoroughly until the mixture becomes cohesive and can be easily formed into balls.
- Scoop out approximately 2 tablespoons of the mixture per bite. Roll each portion into a compact sphere about the size of a golf ball and arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking tray.
- Place the tray in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the exterior is golden and crisp and the centers are warmed through.
- Allow to rest for several minutes after baking. Serve warm, accompanied by a side of gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping if desired.