Thanksgiving leftovers are often just as cherished as the meal itself, but sometimes it can be challenging to find creative ways to use them. Enter Turkey Stuffing Balls—a delightful, bite-sized treat that perfectly blends the savory flavors of leftover turkey and stuffing into one irresistible dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, an appetizer for your holiday gatherings, or a comforting side dish, these stuffing balls are a must-try. With a crispy exterior and warm, flavorful interior, they’re bound to become a family favorite. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple steps. So, let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 3 cups leftover turkey, shredded
- 3 cups leftover stuffing
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crispiness)
- Cranberry sauce, for serving (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure your stuffing balls bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, leftover stuffing, beaten eggs, chicken broth, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape.
Step 3: For an extra crispy texture, pour the breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Roll each stuffing ball in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated. This step is optional but highly recommended for a delightful crunch.
Step 4: Using your hands, shape the mixture into golf ball-sized balls. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re evenly spaced.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and heated through. The exterior should be crispy, while the inside remains warm and tender.
Step 6: Serve the stuffing balls warm with a side of cranberry sauce for dipping, if desired. Enjoy them as a standalone snack, appetizer, or as a complement to your holiday meal.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Turkey Stuffing Balls are best served warm, straight from the oven. They make an excellent appetizer or side dish, especially when paired with a tangy cranberry sauce or gravy. If you’re serving these at a gathering, consider keeping them warm in a low-temperature oven until ready to serve.
- Storage: Store any leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also freeze them for up to a month. Reheat frozen balls in the oven directly from the freezer, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Helpful Notes
- Mixing: Ensure that the turkey and stuffing are finely shredded and well-mixed. This will help the balls hold together better and ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- Consistency: If your mixture feels too dry, add a little more chicken broth, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. If too wet, add a bit more stuffing or breadcrumbs.
- Breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs are optional, but they add a nice crunch. If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, crushed crackers or even panko can work as a substitute.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to customize the seasonings. A pinch of sage, thyme, or rosemary can add a deeper flavor profile that complements the holiday theme.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Gordon Ramsay: Always ensure your stuffing mixture is well-seasoned. Don’t be afraid to taste the mixture before forming the balls to adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Chef Ina Garten: For a more luxurious flavor, consider adding a small cube of cheese (like Gruyère or cheddar) in the center of each ball before baking. The cheese will melt during cooking, adding a delicious surprise inside.
- Chef Jamie Oliver: If you have leftover gravy, drizzle it over the stuffing balls before serving for an extra layer of flavor and moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use fresh turkey instead of leftovers?
- A: Yes, you can use freshly cooked turkey, but ensure it’s finely shredded and seasoned.
Q2: What can I substitute for stuffing if I don’t have any leftovers?
- A: If you don’t have stuffing, you can use breadcrumbs mixed with sautéed onions, celery, and some herbs to mimic the stuffing texture and flavor.
Q3: Can I make these stuffing balls in advance?
- A: Yes, you can prepare the stuffing balls ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them unbaked and cook them straight from the freezer when needed.
Q4: How do I prevent the stuffing balls from falling apart?
- A: Make sure the mixture is moist enough to hold together. Adding an extra egg or a bit more chicken broth can help bind the ingredients.
Q5: Can I use a different type of meat?
- A: Absolutely! Ground chicken, pork, or even beef can be used as a substitute, though it will alter the flavor.
Q6: Are these stuffing balls gluten-free?
- A: To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free stuffing and breadcrumbs.
Q7: Can I cook these in an air fryer?
- A: Yes, you can air fry the stuffing balls at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Q8: What sauces pair well with these stuffing balls?
- A: Cranberry sauce, gravy, or a creamy mustard sauce are all excellent choices.
Q9: Can I add vegetables to the stuffing balls?
- A: Yes, finely diced vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms can be added to the mixture for extra flavor and texture.
Q10: How can I make these stuffing balls vegetarian?
- A: Replace the turkey with a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Conclusion
Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect solution for your holiday leftovers. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and offer a versatile dish that can be served in multiple ways. Whether you’re planning a festive appetizer or just looking for a quick snack, these stuffing balls are sure to impress. With the tips and tricks provided, you’ll be able to whip up a batch that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with holiday goodness. Enjoy your delicious creation, and don’t forget to share the love with family and friends!