If you’re searching for the ultimate way to transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into something truly crave-worthy, look no further than this Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe. Each bite is packed with savory turkey, flavorful stuffing, and fresh herbs, all rolled into golden, crispy balls that are perfect for dipping. Not only is this recipe a crowd-pleaser at holiday gatherings, but it’s also a deliciously clever answer to “what should I do with all this extra turkey?” Prepare to fall in love with a new comfort food favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe is just how simple and accessible the ingredients are. Each element brings its own magic, from the juicy turkey to the aromatic herbs, ensuring every bite is full of flavor and texture. Here’s everything you need for stuffing ball greatness:
- Cooked turkey: 3 cups, finely chopped; this is the star of the show and a fantastic way to use up leftovers.
- Prepared stuffing: 4 cups, boxed or homemade; the stuffing gives these balls their signature fluffy, hearty texture.
- Large eggs: 2; eggs act as the binder to hold everything together in perfect bite-sized form.
- Chicken or turkey broth: 1/3 cup; keeps the mixture moist and adds extra savory depth.
- Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon; a touch of garlic brings warmth and subtle pungency.
- Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon; for a gentle, aromatic boost without chopping onions.
- Dried sage: 1/2 teaspoon; classic holiday flavor in every mouthful.
- Salt and pepper: to taste; always essential for bringing all the flavors into balance.
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped; adds color and a burst of freshness.
- Cooking spray or olive oil: for baking; helps the balls crisp up beautifully in the oven.
How to Make Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a total breeze. While the oven is warming up, you’re just minutes away from assembling the most irresistible turkey stuffing balls ever.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine your finely chopped turkey, prepared stuffing, eggs, broth, garlic powder, onion powder, dried sage, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. You’ll want to use clean hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything until it’s evenly combined and the mixture holds together when squeezed. This step is key for ensuring every bite is packed with flavor and the perfect texture.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
Scoop out golf ball-sized portions of the mixture. You can use your hands or a cookie scoop for this—just make sure each ball is compact so it holds its shape while baking. Arrange them evenly on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each for even browning.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touch
Lightly spray or brush the tops of your stuffing balls with cooking spray or olive oil. This little trick guarantees a gorgeous golden color and a subtle crunch once they’re baked, making them impossible to resist.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your tray in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the turkey stuffing balls are crisp and golden on the outside and heated through. When they’re ready, let them cool for a few minutes—just enough so you won’t burn your fingers when diving in!
How to Serve Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe truly shine, sprinkle them with a little extra chopped fresh parsley or a dusting of grated parmesan cheese right before serving. The pop of green adds freshness and makes them look extra inviting, while parmesan lends a savory, nutty finish.
Side Dishes
Serve these stuffing balls alongside classic holiday favorites like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a bright cranberry sauce for dipping. They also pair perfectly with a rich turkey or chicken gravy—just imagine dunking these golden bites into a pool of savory sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
For a party-ready platter, arrange the turkey stuffing balls on a large board with small bowls of different dips like cranberry chutney, herbed yogurt, or spicy mustard. You can also skewer them on toothpicks for easy grab-and-go bites at your next holiday get-together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any turkey stuffing balls left (which is a big “if”!), simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They’re just as tasty reheated for a quick snack or easy lunch.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? You can freeze the unbaked turkey stuffing balls on a tray until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them straight from the freezer into the oven, adding about 5–7 extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To reheat, place the turkey stuffing balls on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes, or until heated through. This method keeps them crisp and delicious, just like when they were first baked.
FAQs
Can I use boxed stuffing for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boxed stuffing works great in the Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe, and it makes the process even quicker. If you have homemade stuffing on hand, that’s fantastic too—the choice is yours.
What kind of turkey should I use?
Any cooked turkey will do—white meat, dark meat, or a combination of both. Just be sure to chop it finely so everything mixes together smoothly for the perfect bite.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffing balls a day in advance and keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes them a stress-free appetizer for busy holiday gatherings.
Are there any gluten-free options?
If you need a gluten-free version, just use your favorite gluten-free stuffing mix and double-check that your broth is gluten-free as well. Everything else in the recipe naturally fits a gluten-free diet.
Can I serve this Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe as a main dish?
Definitely! Serve a larger portion alongside a salad or veggies for a comforting, high-protein meal. They’re satisfying enough to be the star of your plate.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe enough for anyone who loves turning leftovers into something extra special. Whether you’re making them for a party or a cozy family dinner, they’re guaranteed to bring big smiles to your table. Give them a try—you’ll be hooked after the first bite!
Print
Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 18 balls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious and easy appetizer perfect for using up Thanksgiving leftovers. Made with cooked turkey, seasoned stuffing, and baked to golden perfection, they make a great party snack served with gravy or cranberry sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped
- 4 cups prepared stuffing (boxed or homemade)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup chicken or turkey broth
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For Baking
- Cooking spray or olive oil, for baking
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the finely chopped cooked turkey, prepared stuffing, eggs, broth, garlic powder, onion powder, dried sage, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley until thoroughly combined and the mixture holds together when shaped.
- Form Balls: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, shape the mixture into golf ball-sized portions and arrange them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Add Oil: Lightly spray or brush the tops of the stuffing balls with cooking spray or olive oil to help them brown beautifully during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the balls for 25 to 30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and heated through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the stuffing balls to cool slightly before serving. They are delicious with gravy or cranberry sauce as a dip.
Notes
- Perfect for using up holiday leftovers like cooked turkey and stuffing.
- Serve warm with gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping.
- You can freeze unbaked stuffing balls and bake them directly from frozen, adding 5 to 7 minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
