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Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls
After a big holiday feast, you might find yourself with plenty of leftovers — especially turkey and stuffing. Instead of eating the same plate again, turn those tasty leftovers into crispy, flavorful Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls. These bite-sized treats are golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with Thanksgiving flavor in every bite. Perfect as appetizers, snacks, or even a quick meal, they’re a fun and creative way to give your leftovers a new life.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
• 3 cups leftover stuffing
• 1 ½ cups cooked turkey, finely chopped
• ½ cup mashed potatoes (optional, for binding)
• 1 egg, beaten
• ¼ cup chicken broth or gravy (if the mixture is too dry)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Coating:
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 2 eggs, beaten (for dipping)
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Cooking spray or oil for frying/baking
How to Make Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls
Step 1: Prepare the mixture
In a large bowl, combine the stuffing, chopped turkey, mashed potatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, and egg. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated. If the mixture feels too dry or crumbly, add a splash of chicken broth or gravy to help it stick together.
Step 2: Shape into balls
Use your hands or a cookie scoop to form 1½-inch balls from the mixture. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You should get about 12–15 balls depending on the size.
Step 3: Coat the balls
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Dip each ball into the egg mixture, then roll it in breadcrumbs to coat evenly. This will give your stuffing balls a crispy, golden crust once cooked.
Step 4: Choose your cooking method
You can bake, fry, or air fry your stuffing balls depending on your preference:
To Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated balls on a greased baking sheet and lightly spray them with cooking oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
To Fry: Heat about ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the balls in batches, turning occasionally, until evenly golden (about 3–4 minutes per side). Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
To Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the balls in a single layer and spray lightly with oil. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffing balls are incredibly versatile. Serve them with a side of cranberry sauce, turkey gravy, or even ranch dressing for dipping. They make a delicious appetizer for post-holiday gatherings or a creative way to use up leftovers for lunch or dinner.
For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped parsley or drizzle warm gravy on top before serving — your guests won’t believe these came from leftovers!
Tips for the Best Results
• Make sure your stuffing isn’t too dry — moisture helps the balls hold their shape.
• Refrigerate the mixture for 15–20 minutes before shaping if it feels too soft.
• Add a bit of shredded cheese for extra flavor and binding.
• Freeze uncooked balls for up to 2 months — bake directly from frozen when ready to enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is simple, budget-friendly, and deliciously satisfying. It captures the comforting flavors of Thanksgiving but transforms them into a fun, handheld form. Whether you’re trying to reduce food waste or just want something new to make with leftovers, these turkey stuffing balls are sure to impress.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 230
Protein: 14g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 480mg
Final Thoughts
Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are proof that leftovers don’t have to be boring. With a little creativity, you can turn your post-holiday fridge stash into a new, mouthwatering dish. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they’re perfect for family snacking, entertaining, or even meal prep. Next time you’re wondering what to do with all that turkey and stuffing — this recipe has you covered.