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