Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls

Transform your holiday leftovers into a delicious new meal with these Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls. This recipe is a creative and easy way to use up leftover turkey and stuffing, turning them into bite-sized savory treats. These crispy, golden-brown turkey stuffing balls are packed with flavor and can be served as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a light meal. The addition of cranberry sauce brings a touch of sweetness to balance out the savory flavors. If you’re looking for a way to enjoy your leftovers in a fun and tasty way, these turkey stuffing balls are the perfect solution.

Ingredients

• 2 cups leftover turkey, shredded
• 1 cup stuffing
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, stuffing, Parmesan cheese, cranberry sauce, and egg. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs to coat evenly.
3. Place the prepared balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
5. Serve hot and enjoy your turkey stuffing balls with a side of gravy, dipping sauce, or just on their own!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Cheesy Version: For a cheesier flavor, mix in additional shredded cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, into the turkey mixture before shaping the balls.
• Herb-Infused: Add extra seasonings, such as thyme, sage, or rosemary, to enhance the stuffing’s flavor and give the balls a more aromatic profile.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free version of this dish.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover turkey stuffing balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked turkey stuffing balls. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes.
• Reheating: Reheat the leftover turkey stuffing balls in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. You can also microwave them, but they won’t be as crispy.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make these without stuffing?
   Yes, if you don’t have leftover stuffing, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed crackers to create the binding for the balls. Add a little bit of seasoning to mimic the flavors of stuffing.
2. Can I add vegetables to the turkey mixture?
   Definitely! You can add finely chopped vegetables such as onions, celery, or carrots for added texture and flavor.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the turkey stuffing balls up to a day in advance. Simply shape them and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them.
4. Can I fry these instead of baking?
   Yes, you can pan-fry the turkey stuffing balls in a little bit of oil for a crispy golden crust. Just be sure to cook them on medium heat to avoid burning the breadcrumbs.
5. What kind of stuffing is best for these balls?
   Any type of stuffing will work, but a simple herb stuffing or cornbread stuffing will complement the turkey best. Avoid stuffing that is too wet, as it may make the balls fall apart.
6. Can I use ground turkey instead of shredded?
   Yes, you can use ground turkey if that’s what you have. Just be sure to cook it before mixing it with the other ingredients.
7. How do I prevent the stuffing balls from falling apart?
   Make sure to use enough egg to bind the mixture. If the mixture is too dry, add a little more cranberry sauce or some broth to help it come together.
8. Can I serve these with a dipping sauce?
   Yes, turkey stuffing balls go great with dipping sauces like gravy, ranch dressing, or a sweet chili sauce.
9. Can I use fresh turkey instead of leftover turkey?
   Yes, you can cook turkey breasts or thighs, shred it, and use it in this recipe instead of leftover turkey.
10. Are these suitable for meal prep?
    Yes, turkey stuffing balls make a great meal prep option. You can prepare a batch, store them in the fridge, and enjoy them throughout the week.

Conclusion

Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect way to turn your holiday leftovers into a delicious and fun new meal. These easy-to-make, crispy turkey balls are packed with the savory flavors of turkey, stuffing, and a touch of cranberry sauce. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, they’re sure to be a hit. Plus, they’re easily customizable to fit your taste preferences. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this is a great recipe to keep in your repertoire for holiday leftovers and beyond.

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