Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls

Leftover turkey stuffing balls are a fantastic way to repurpose Thanksgiving leftovers into a delicious and satisfying dish. These bite-sized treats are perfect as appetizers, snacks, or even a light meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups leftover turkey, shredded
• 3 cups leftover stuffing
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (optional)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil spray for baking

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey, stuffing, eggs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Lightly spray the stuffing balls with olive oil to help them crisp up during baking.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and heated through.
6. Serve warm with cranberry sauce for dipping, or enjoy them as a standalone snack or appetizer.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Serving Size: 2-3 balls
• Calorie Count: 150 kcal per ball

Variations

• Herbed Stuffing Balls: Add finely chopped herbs such as parsley, sage, or thyme for an extra burst of flavor.
• Cheesy Stuffing Balls: Mix in additional cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy twist.
• Spicy Variation: Incorporate some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover turkey stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; reheat directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

1. Can I use other meats besides turkey?
   Yes, shredded chicken or even ham can be substituted for the turkey.
2. What type of stuffing should I use?
   Any leftover stuffing works, whether it’s traditional bread stuffing, cornbread, or sausage stuffing.
3. Can I bake these in an air fryer?
   Yes, you can air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
   You can use crushed crackers or oats as a substitute for breadcrumbs.
5. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the mixture and form the balls in advance, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake.
6. How can I ensure they stay moist?
   Make sure not to overbake them, and consider adding a little broth to the mixture if it seems dry.
7. Can I make these gluten-free?
   Yes, use gluten-free stuffing and breadcrumbs to make a gluten-free version.
8. What sauces pair well with these?
   Besides cranberry sauce, try ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or a spicy aioli.
9. Can these be made into larger patties?
   Yes, you can form them into patties and cook them on a skillet for a different presentation.
10. How do I prevent them from sticking to the baking sheet?
    Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper and spraying the balls lightly with olive oil will help prevent sticking.

Conclusion

Leftover turkey stuffing balls are a versatile and delicious way to make the most of your Thanksgiving leftovers. With their crispy exterior and savory filling, they’re sure to please everyone at the table. Easy to make and fun to customize, these little bites are perfect for any occasion, ensuring no leftovers go to waste. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce!

Print