Name: Crispy Turkey Stuffing Balls: Elevate Your Holiday Leftovers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Leftover Stuffing (This is the heart of your turkey stuffing balls.); 1 cup Mashed Potatoes (Any leftover mashed potatoes will do beautifully.); 2 cups Turkey (Shredded or chopped.); 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (Creates a fabulous crispy exterior.); 1 large Egg (A well-beaten egg acts as a binder.)

The tantalizing aroma of holiday feasts lingering in the kitchen often signals that it’s time to transform those leftovers into something magical. Enter Crispy Holiday Leftover Stuffing Balls—the perfect way to revitalize your uneaten turkey and stuffing into something you’ll crave long after the season ends. These delicious, bite-sized balls bring together that familiar warmth of Thanksgiving flavors while delivering a satisfying crunch that is both comforting and exciting. Not only are they a quick and easy way to use up leftover ingredients, but they also make for a fun and crowd-pleasing snack at any gathering. So, are you ready to elevate your post-holiday meals with a crispy twist?

Why are these stuffing balls a must-try?

Crispy outside, fluffy inside: These turkey stuffing balls offer a delightful textural contrast that elevates any meal. Simple prep: Using holiday leftovers means fewer ingredients and less food waste, making this recipe not only easy but eco-friendly. Flavor explosion: Packed with your favorite Thanksgiving tastes, every bite feels like a holiday celebration. Perfect for parties: Ideal as an appetizer, they will impress guests at any gathering. For more crowd-pleasing ideas, check out our Dollys Chicken Stuffing or Meatballs in Lemon Sauce recipes.

Turkey Stuffing Balls Ingredients

Transform your holiday leftovers into tasty bites with this simple ingredient list!

For the Stuffing Mixture

Leftover Stuffing – This is the heart of your turkey stuffing balls, ensuring all those cherished holiday flavors shine through.
Mashed Potatoes – Adds a wonderful creaminess and helps bind the mixture; any leftover mashed potatoes will do beautifully.
Turkey – Shredded or chopped, it elevates the protein content while boasting extra flavor.

For the Coating

Panko Breadcrumbs – These create a fabulous crispy exterior; feel free to substitute with regular breadcrumbs if necessary.
Egg – A well-beaten egg acts as a binder, helping everything hold together perfectly.

These turkey stuffing balls are an exceptional way to reinvent your leftovers into a culinary delight!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your leftover stuffing, about a cup of mashed potatoes, and two cups of shredded turkey. Add a well-beaten egg to bind the mixture. Use your hands or a spatula to mix until all ingredients are evenly integrated, ensuring that the stuffing maintains its holiday flavors. This should take around 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Form Balls
Once your mixture is well combined, take small portions and shape them into 1-inch balls, pressing firmly to ensure they hold together. If the mixture feels too loose, add more leftover stuffing or breadcrumbs to help bind it. You should aim for about a dozen or more balls, ready for the next step.

Step 3: Coat with Panko
Prepare a shallow dish and pour in a cup of panko breadcrumbs. Roll each formed ball in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are evenly coated for a lovely crispy exterior. This coating will give your turkey stuffing balls an extra crunch once they are fried. Set aside the coated balls on a platter.

Step 4: Cook
Heat approximately half an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat, allowing it to reach 350°F. Carefully place the coated turkey stuffing balls in the hot oil, cooking them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Drain and Serve
Once cooked, transfer the golden turkey stuffing balls onto a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil, keeping them crispy. Let them rest for a minute before serving. These delightful bites are best enjoyed warm, making them perfect for parties or as a cozy snack anytime!

How to Store and Freeze Turkey Stuffing Balls

Fridge: Store leftover turkey stuffing balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain their crispy texture.

Freezer: To freeze, place uncooked turkey stuffing balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. This way, you can enjoy them anytime!

Reheating: For the best results, reheat cooked turkey stuffing balls in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through and crispy again.

Thawing: If frozen, thaw the turkey stuffing balls in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to ensure they cook evenly.

Turkey Stuffing Balls Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these turkey stuffing balls and make them your own! The possibilities are as delightful as the original recipe.

Chicken Swap: Replace turkey with shredded chicken for a lighter version that’s equally delicious.
Veggie Delight: Use roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers instead of turkey for a satisfying vegetarian option. They add a fresh flavor and vibrant color!
Cheesy Goodness: Mix in your favorite cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, for a gooey center that will have everyone reaching for more.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs such as parsley, sage, or thyme to elevate the flavors and give a fragrant twist to your stuffing balls.
Spicy Kick: For a little heat, mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to bring a zesty punch to every bite.
Different Stuffing: Experiment with cornbread stuffing or herbed stuffing mixes for unique flavors that keep things interesting.
Dipping Sauce: Serve with a delicious dip, like homemade ranch or cranberry sauce, for a fun and tasty accompaniment.
Serving Size: Shape the mixture into smaller bite-sized balls for easy snacking, or make larger ones for a hearty appetizer.

These variations not only offer delightful twists but also help reduce food waste. Whether you’re inspired by leftover magic or want to switch up the flavor profile, these stuffing balls have got you covered! For more ways to reinvent holiday flavors, check out our Wine Braised Meatballs or Meatballs in Lemon Sauce for unforgettable creations.

Expert Tips for Turkey Stuffing Balls

Mix Wisely: Ensure your mixture isn’t too wet; if it is, add more breadcrumbs or leftover stuffing to help them hold together while cooking.
Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the skillet; this can reduce oil temperature and lead to soggy turkey stuffing balls instead of crispy perfection.
Temperature Check: Use a thermometer to monitor your oil—aim for around 350°F. Proper oil temperature is key for achieving that perfect crunch.
Add Flavor: Experiment with herbs like sage, thyme, or even a pinch of garlic powder for an extra flavor boost in your turkey stuffing balls.
Leftover Variety: Feel free to swap turkey for chicken or even roasted vegetables for a delightful vegetarian version that’s equally satisfying.

What to Serve with Crispy Holiday Leftover Stuffing Balls

Elevate your post-holiday meals with delightful accompaniments that enhance every bite of these crispy treats.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, they complement the stuffing balls’ texture while adding a comforting flavor contrast.
Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette brightens up your meal, balancing the richness of the stuffing balls perfectly.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness and sweetness of cranberry sauce adds a burst of flavor, enhancing those classic Thanksgiving tastes.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve a medley of seasonal roasted vegetables for an added touch of color and flavor, bringing warmth and earthiness to the table.
Gravy: A warm mushroom or turkey gravy drizzled over the stuffing balls adds moisture, tying all flavors together in a heartwarming embrace.
Sparkling Apple Cider: Refreshing and slightly sweet, this non-alcoholic drink offers a festive touch while balancing the savory elements of your meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Turkey Stuffing Balls are perfect for meal prep during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the stuffing mixture up to 24 hours in advance by mixing together the leftover stuffing, mashed potatoes, shredded turkey, and beaten egg. Once combined, shape the mixture into balls and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. This helps maintain their freshness and prevents them from losing texture. When you’re set to serve, simply coat the chilled balls in panko breadcrumbs and fry as directed. This technique not only saves time but ensures your turkey stuffing balls are just as delicious as if made fresh, bringing that festive flavor back to your dining table effortlessly!

Crispy Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe FAQs

What type of leftover stuffing works best?
Absolutely! You can use any leftover stuffing you have on hand, whether it’s traditional herb stuffing, cornbread stuffing, or even gluten-free varieties. Just make sure it’s not too moist; otherwise, you may need to adjust with more breadcrumbs.

How long can I store leftover turkey stuffing balls in the fridge?
Leftover turkey stuffing balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to help retain their crispy texture when reheating.

Can I freeze turkey stuffing balls?
Yes, you can freeze turkey stuffing balls! To do this, place the uncooked balls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. This usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. This way, you can pop them straight into the skillet whenever a snack craving strikes.

What should I do if the stuffing mixture is too wet or loose?
If you find your stuffing mixture is too wet, don’t worry! Start by adding more breadcrumbs or leftover stuffing gradually, mixing until you achieve the right consistency. If necessary, you can also incorporate a little more mashed potatoes to help with binding. Aim for a firm mixture that holds together when shaped into balls.

Are turkey stuffing balls safe for pets or can they contain allergens?
While turkey stuffing balls are delicious for humans, it’s best to avoid sharing them with pets, especially due to ingredients like onions or seasoning that can be harmful. Additionally, if anyone has food allergies, double-check the ingredients in your stuffing, as it may contain common allergens like wheat or dairy. If allergies are a concern, make a vegetarian or allergen-free version using safe substitutes.