If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to use up your Thanksgiving leftovers, look no further! These Turkey stuffing Balls are a staple in my home, and I can’t wait to share them with you. They’re crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, packed with all those comforting flavors we love during the holidays. Whether you’re gathering with family or enjoying a cozy night in, these tasty bites are perfect for any occasion.

What makes these Turkey stuffing Balls truly special is how easy they are to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform your leftover turkey and stuffing into something extraordinary! They’re great for busy weeknights or festive gatherings and are sure to be a hit with everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: These Turkey stuffing Balls come together in just 20 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute snacks or meals.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these flavorful bites. It’s a fun way to get everyone involved in the kitchen!
Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time, freeze them, and simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.
Versatile Flavors: You can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be delighted to find that these Turkey stuffing Balls require only simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have at home. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Stuffing Balls

3 cups mashed potatoes
3 cups stuffing
1½ cups shredded turkey
Gravy for serving
Black pepper to taste
Panko breadcrumbs (optional)
Butter/oil for frying (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have available. Here are some ideas:

Swap the protein: If turkey isn’t your thing or if you’re using other leftovers, shredded chicken or even cooked veggies work beautifully.
Add some cheese: Stir in some shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for an extra creamy texture.
Kick it up a notch: Add your favorite spices or herbs like garlic powder or thyme to enhance the flavor profile.
Make it vegetarian: Replace turkey with sautéed mushrooms or diced zucchini for a hearty veggie version.

How to Make Turkey stuffing Balls

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Start by mixing your mashed potatoes, stuffing, and shredded turkey in a large bowl. This step is crucial because combining these ingredients ensures that each bite has that delicious flavor blend we’re after!

Step 2: Form the Balls

Once everything is mixed well, it’s time to shape them into balls—about the size of a golf ball works well! This is where the fun begins; get your hands in there! Ensuring they’re tightly packed helps them hold together during frying.

Step 3: Frying Time

Heat some butter or oil in a pan over medium heat. If you choose to coat your balls with panko breadcrumbs first, now’s the time! Frying gives them that glorious golden crust while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. It’s important not to crowd the pan—give each ball enough space so they cook evenly.

Step 4: Serve with Gravy

Once browned all around, remove them from the pan and let them drain on paper towels briefly. Then serve hot with gravy drizzled over top. Trust me; this makes every bite even more irresistible!

Enjoy making these Turkey stuffing Balls—your friends and family will thank you!

Pro Tips for Making Turkey Stuffing Balls

Making turkey stuffing balls is a breeze with just a few simple tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

Use cold mashed potatoes: Cold mashed potatoes help the mixture hold together better, making it easier to form the balls without them falling apart during frying or baking.
Don’t overmix: Mixing too thoroughly can make your stuffing balls dense. Gently combine your ingredients until just mixed for a fluffier texture.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to add herbs and spices like sage, thyme, or garlic powder to elevate the flavor profile of your stuffing balls.
Fry for an extra crunch: If you’re looking for a crispy exterior, consider frying your stuffing balls in a bit of butter or oil instead of baking them. This adds a delightful crunch!
Make-ahead option: Prepare your turkey stuffing balls in advance and refrigerate them before cooking. They can be cooked straight from the fridge, making meal prep a breeze!

How to Serve Turkey Stuffing Balls

Serving turkey stuffing balls can be as creative as you wish! These delightful bites can be presented in various ways that will not only impress but also enhance the overall dining experience.

Garnishes

Chopped parsley or chives: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds vibrant color and freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.
Cranberry sauce: A dollop of cranberry sauce on top provides a sweet-tart contrast that pairs perfectly with savory stuffing balls.

Side Dishes

Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized make a hearty side that balances the richness of the stuffing balls.
Green salad: A light green salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of the dish.
Mashed sweet potatoes: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes bring both sweetness and comfort to your meal while complementing the flavors of turkey and stuffing.
Vegetable soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup can serve as a cozy starter or side, adding warmth and comforting flavors to your table setting.

Enjoy these delicious turkey stuffing balls as part of your cozy gatherings or laid-back dinners—they’re sure to become a crowd favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Turkey Stuffing Balls are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers in a fun and exciting way. Whether you’re preparing for a busy week or just want to have some easy snacks on hand, these bites are perfect for storing and reheating.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the Turkey Stuffing Balls to cool completely before storing.
Place them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the cooled stuffing balls on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

To reheat from frozen, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
For refrigerated leftovers, you can microwave them on medium heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking periodically.
Alternatively, you can pan-fry them in a little oil or butter until golden and heated through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making Turkey Stuffing Balls, here are some common inquiries!

Can I make Turkey Stuffing Balls without turkey?

Absolutely! You can substitute shredded turkey with cooked chicken or even plant-based protein options like chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian twist.

How do I ensure my Turkey Stuffing Balls stay crispy?

To keep your Turkey Stuffing Balls crispy, consider coating them lightly with panko breadcrumbs before frying. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying to achieve that perfect golden exterior!

How long will Turkey Stuffing Balls last in the fridge?

Turkey Stuffing Balls can last up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy them as quick snacks throughout the week!

Can I prepare Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to form and cook the balls. Alternatively, you can freeze them uncooked and fry directly from frozen!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Turkey Stuffing Balls! They not only bring together all those comforting Thanksgiving flavors but also turn your holiday leftovers into something special. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as an easy snack at home, they are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy cooking!