If you’re looking for a delicious way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers, Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect solution! These bite-sized, savory delights combine shredded turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes into crispy, flavorful morsels that are ideal as appetizers or a main dish.
Not only are they an excellent way to reduce food waste, but they also provide a versatile and customizable recipe that can be adapted to different tastes and dietary needs. Plus, with various cooking methods like baking, frying, and air-frying, you can make them as crispy or as healthy as you like.
For a twist on traditional side dishes, check out this Potato Carbonara recipe—it pairs wonderfully with stuffing balls!
Why You’ll Love Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Perfect for using up leftovers from Thanksgiving or Christmas
- Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside
- Customizable with different flavors and ingredients
- Easy to make ahead and store for later
- Kid-friendly and great for parties
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Turkey Stuffing Balls, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
Base Ingredients
- Shredded turkey (leftover or freshly cooked)
- Stuffing mix (homemade or store-bought)
- Mashed potatoes (optional but adds creaminess)
- Egg (acts as a binding agent)
- Chicken or turkey broth (for moisture)
Seasonings & Add-Ins
- Sage, thyme, and parsley for that classic stuffing flavor
- Grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese for richness
- Dried cranberries for a festive touch
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For those who love rich, cheesy dishes, you might also enjoy these Cheddar and Smoked Bacon Chicken Tenders—they bring a similar crispy, comforting texture!
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
- If using leftover turkey, shred it into small pieces.
- Warm up the stuffing mix slightly to make it easier to combine.
- If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash of chicken broth for moisture.
2. Mix & Form the Balls
- In a large bowl, mix turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cheese, and seasonings.
- Add a beaten egg to help bind everything together.
- Roll the mixture into golf-ball-sized portions.
3. Choose Your Cooking Method
Baking (Healthier Option)
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place balls on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Frying (For Crispy Texture)
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry each ball for 2-3 minutes per side until crispy.
- Drain on a paper towel.
Air-Frying (Modern Alternative)
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray balls with oil.
- Air-fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
For those who love crispy textures, you’ll also enjoy Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken—a crunchy delight!
Creative Variations
Want to mix things up? Try these delicious variations:
- Cheesy Stuffing Balls – Add extra cheddar or mozzarella for gooey goodness.
- Spicy Turkey Balls – Mix in chopped jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Cranberry-Infused Balls – Toss in dried cranberries for a sweet-savory contrast.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use a gluten-free stuffing mix for a celiac-friendly version.
If you’re looking for another classic comfort food, try these Country Ranch Green Beans & Potatoes with Bacon—a great side for any holiday meal.
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
These tasty Turkey Stuffing Balls are even better when served with the right accompaniments:
Best Dipping Sauces
- Turkey gravy (classic choice)
- Cranberry sauce (for a tart contrast)
- Honey mustard (sweet and tangy)
Side Dish Ideas
- Mashed potatoes with extra gravy
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Crispy sweet potato fries
For more delicious appetizers, consider making Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels—a great complement to stuffing balls!
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
These stuffing balls store well and can be enjoyed later. Follow these tips for best results:
Refrigerating
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Arrange on a baking sheet and freeze before cooking.
- Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Use short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make turkey stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare them in advance and store them uncooked in the freezer for up to 3 months.
2. How do I prevent them from falling apart?
Make sure the mixture is moist but not too wet. If needed, add extra egg or breadcrumbs for better binding.
3. Can I use store-bought stuffing mix?
Absolutely! Just warm it up slightly before mixing to help it blend well with the other ingredients.
4. Are turkey stuffing balls freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze them uncooked for best results, then bake or fry straight from the freezer.
5. What’s the best way to make them extra crispy?
Frying or air-frying gives the crispiest results. A light coating of oil before baking also helps.
Final Thoughts
Turkey Stuffing Balls are the ultimate Thanksgiving leftover hack—easy, delicious, and endlessly customizable. Whether you bake, fry, or air-fry them, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering.
For more tasty holiday treats, check out Gourmet Liège Waffles—a perfect dessert to follow your stuffing ball feast!
So next time you have extra turkey and stuffing, don’t let them go to waste—roll them into these flavorful bites instead!
Ready to try them out? Let us know your favorite variations in the comments! 🎉