These Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect way to transform leftover turkey and stuffing into a delicious, crispy, bite-sized treat. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and are ideal for serving as a snack, appetizer, or even a meal with your favorite sides. Serve with cranberry sauce for an extra touch of sweetness!
Ingredients:
- 3 cups leftover turkey, shredded
- 3 cups leftover stuffing
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crispiness)
- Cranberry sauce, for serving (optional)
Directions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Combine Ingredients:
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 3 cups of shredded turkey, 3 cups of stuffing, 2 beaten eggs, 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1/4 cup chopped parsley, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix Well: Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are well incorporated. The chicken broth will help moisten the mixture, and the eggs will bind everything together.
3. Shape the Balls:
- Form the Balls: Using your hands, shape the mixture into golf ball-sized balls. You should get about 12 stuffing balls from this recipe.
- Optional Crispiness: For extra crispy stuffing balls, roll each ball in breadcrumbs before placing them on the baking sheet. This will add a delicious golden crunch.
4. Bake the Stuffing Balls:
- Bake: Place the stuffing balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and heated through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve Warm: These stuffing balls are best served warm. For extra flavor, serve them with cranberry sauce on the side for dipping.
Serving and Storage:
- Serving: Serve these turkey stuffing balls as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course. They pair well with mashed potatoes, gravy, or roasted vegetables.
- Storage: Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the stuffing balls before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Helpful Notes:
- Customize with Leftovers: This recipe is great for using up any other Thanksgiving or holiday leftovers you may have. Try adding leftover vegetables or cheese to the mixture for an extra twist.
- Don’t Overwork the Mixture: Be gentle when mixing the ingredients to keep the stuffing balls tender and flavorful.
Tips for Success:
- Even Size: To ensure even cooking, try to make the stuffing balls the same size. Using a cookie scoop can help with this.
- Add Cheese: For an extra indulgent version, try adding shredded cheese to the mixture. Cheddar or mozzarella work great for a melty surprise inside.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other meats instead of turkey?
Yes! This recipe works well with leftover chicken or ham, so feel free to substitute based on what you have on hand.
2. How can I make the stuffing balls gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free stuffing and breadcrumbs (or omit the breadcrumbs) to make this recipe gluten-free.
3. Can I make these stuffing balls in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing balls ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
4. Can I pan-fry the stuffing balls instead of baking?
Yes! If you prefer a crispier exterior, you can pan-fry the stuffing balls in a little oil until they’re golden and crispy on all sides.
5. What if my mixture is too dry?
If the mixture feels too dry and isn’t holding together, add a little more chicken broth or an extra beaten egg until the mixture binds properly.
These Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious and creative way to make the most out of your holiday leftovers. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to be a family favorite!
