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The Ultimate Guide to Making Turkey Stuffing Balls with Leftovers
Transforming Thanksgiving leftovers into a delicious dish is easier than you think! These irresistible turkey stuffing balls combine mashed potatoes, turkey, and stuffing into a crispy, golden-brown delight. Perfect for family dinners, holiday parties, or a quick snack, this recipe is versatile and guaranteed to please everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: Prepped and cooked in under 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy days.
Perfect for Leftovers: Use up extra turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing in a creative way.
Customizable: Add your favorite spices, herbs, or breadcrumbs to elevate the flavor.
Kid-Friendly: These bite-sized treats are fun to eat and great for picky eaters.
Ingredients and Key Variations
Core Ingredients
Mashed Potatoes (3 cups): The creamy base that holds the mixture together. If you prefer a twist, try sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.
Stuffing (3 cups): Traditional bread stuffing works best, but cornbread stuffing can add a unique texture.
Shredded Turkey (1½ cups): Any leftover turkey will work—white or dark meat, or a mix.
Optional Additions
Black Pepper: Adds a subtle kick to the mixture.
Gravy: For drizzling or dipping, it’s the perfect finishing touch.
Panko Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, roll the balls in panko before baking or frying.
Herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary can enhance the aroma and taste.
Cheese: Add shredded cheddar or parmesan to the mixture for a gooey, cheesy version.
Tips for the Perfect Turkey Stuffing Balls
Prep Smart: Warm your mashed potatoes and stuffing slightly to make mixing easier.
Shape Like a Pro: Form tight, firm balls, pressing the mixture together like a snowball. This ensures they stay intact while cooking.
Bake or Fry?: Baking is lighter and healthier, while frying in butter and oil gives a crispy, indulgent finish.
Season Well: Adjust seasoning to taste. With the salt from the stuffing and gravy, you may not need much.
Serve Hot: These taste best when served warm, drizzled with gravy.
How to Customize for Dietary Needs
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free stuffing and breadcrumbs.
Low-Carb: Swap mashed potatoes for mashed cauliflower.
Vegetarian: Replace turkey with finely chopped, sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
Pairing Suggestions
Serve your turkey stuffing balls with:
Cranberry Sauce: A tangy contrast to the savory flavors.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots for a balanced meal.
Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad to complement the hearty balls.
Easy Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
3 cups mashed potatoes
3 cups stuffing
1½ cups shredded turkey
Gravy (for drizzling)
Optional: Black pepper, panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.
Warm up the mashed potatoes and stuffing to make mixing easier.
In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, stuffing, and shredded turkey. Add black pepper if desired.
Using your hands, shape the mixture into tight balls, pressing firmly to ensure they hold together.
Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and drizzle with hot gravy before serving.
Optional: Fry for Extra Crunch
Coat each ball in panko breadcrumbs.
Heat butter and grapeseed oil in a nonstick pan.
Fry the balls on medium heat until golden and crispy.
Notes:
Use equal parts mashed potatoes and stuffing for the best texture. Add half as much shredded turkey.
If the mixture is too soft, chill it in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before shaping.
Adjust the seasonings and ingredients to suit your taste.
