Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious way to use up leftover turkey and stuffing. This dish transforms your holiday meals into tasty bite-sized snacks. Perfect for parties or family dinners, these balls are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They bring comfort and warmth to any table!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Turkey Stuffing Balls is a great way to reduce food waste. Instead of letting your leftover turkey and stuffing sit in the fridge, you can combine them into a new and exciting dish. Not only is it practical, but it also gives everyone a chance to enjoy a familiar flavor in a fun new form. Plus, they are easy to make, so even novice cooks can impress their family and friends!
How to Make Turkey Stuffing Balls
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked finely shredded turkey (leftovers or fresh)
- 2 ½ cups prepared stuffing (leftovers or fresh)
- 2 ½ cups mashed potatoes (leftovers or fresh)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Plain breadcrumbs (as needed)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- Heat the 2 ½ cups of prepared stuffing and 2 ½ cups of mashed potatoes in the microwave for about a minute to make them easier to work with.
- In a large bowl, mix the 2 cups of cooked finely shredded turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the ingredients are thoroughly combined, shape them into about 1-inch balls. If the mixture isn’t holding together, add plain breadcrumbs, two tablespoons at a time, until they hold their shape.
- Place the formed balls onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through baking.
- Remove the turkey stuffing balls from the oven and serve hot with gravy or cranberry sauce.
How to Serve Turkey Stuffing Balls
Turkey Stuffing Balls are best served warm. They make a great appetizer or side dish at any gathering. Consider serving them with a side of homemade gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping. You can also pair them with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Turkey Stuffing Balls
If you have leftovers, you can store Turkey Stuffing Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze them for up to a month. Just be sure to let them cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
Tips to Make Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Make sure the turkey is finely shredded to help the balls hold together better.
- If you don’t have leftover mashed potatoes, you can use instant mashed potatoes instead.
- Adjust the seasoning to your liking – add spices like garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
Variation
You can add shredded cheese or chopped vegetables to the mixture for added flavor and texture. Try using different types of stuffing if you want to experiment with unique tastes!
FAQs
Can I use raw turkey instead of cooked?
Using raw turkey is not recommended. Always use cooked turkey for safety and the best flavor.
What if I don’t have stuffing?
You can make your own stuffing using bread cubes, broth, and seasonings, or substitute with other ingredients such as rice or quinoa.
Can I fry these instead of baking?
Yes! If you prefer, you can fry the turkey stuffing balls in oil until they are golden and crispy. Just be sure to cook them in small batches to maintain the oil temperature.
Now, you’re ready to enjoy these tasty Turkey Stuffing Balls! They are sure to be a hit.
Turkey Stuffing Balls
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked finely shredded turkey leftovers or fresh
- 2.5 cups prepared stuffing leftovers or fresh
- 2.5 cups mashed potatoes leftovers or fresh
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Plain breadcrumbs as needed to hold mixture together
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- Heat the stuffing and mashed potatoes in the microwave for about a minute to make them easier to work with.
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and salt and pepper until thoroughly combined.
Forming and Baking
- Shape the mixture into about 1-inch balls. If the mixture isn’t holding together, add breadcrumbs a little at a time until they hold shape.
- Place the formed balls onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through baking.
Serving
- Remove from oven and serve hot with gravy or cranberry sauce.
