Name: Delicious Turkey Stuffing Balls: Crispy Comfort Food Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Mashed Potatoes (Substitute with cauliflower mash for a lighter option.); 2 cups Stuffing (Any variety of leftover stuffing.); 1 cup Shredded Turkey (Cooked chicken or ham are great alternatives.); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Feel free to add garlic powder for an extra kick!); 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (Can substitute with regular breadcrumbs.); 2 tablespoons Butter/Oil (Opt for olive oil for a healthier touch.); 1 cup Gravy (Serve with cranberry sauce for a sweet contrast.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The crunch of golden, crispy outsides gives way to a fluffy, flavorful interior—this is what awaits you with my Crispy Holiday Leftover Stuffing Balls. After an indulgent Thanksgiving, who wouldn’t want to turn those slightly stale leftovers into something utterly irresistible? This recipe transforms your holiday essentials into bite-sized delights that are as fun to make as they are to eat. Plus, they’re ideal for whipping up in a flash, whether you’re hosting friends or savoring a cozy night in. With endless possibilities for customization, like adding herbs or cheese, you can make these stuffing balls truly your own. Ready to elevate your leftovers into a crowd-pleasing treat? Let’s dive in!

Why Make Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Crispy and Delicious: The outer layer offers a satisfying crunch, perfectly contrasting the fluffy interior loaded with beloved Thanksgiving flavors.
Versatile Base: You can easily adapt these stuffing balls by adding your favorite spices, cheese, or even veggies to elevate the taste.
Family-Friendly Fun: Kids and adults alike will love these bite-sized treats, making them perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can transform those holiday leftovers into something special in just minutes! Plus, check out my Ground Turkey Tacos for another exciting way to enjoy turkey.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve them as appetizers or snacks, and watch your guests go back for seconds—no one can resist these delicious bites!

Turkey Stuffing Balls Ingredients

For the Stuffing Balls
• Mashed Potatoes – Adds moisture and creaminess; substitute with cauliflower mash for a lighter option.
• Stuffing – Provides the base flavor; use any variety of leftover stuffing you have from your Thanksgiving feast.
• Shredded Turkey – Contributes protein and enhances the beloved holiday flavor; cooked chicken or ham are great alternatives.
• Black Pepper – Enhances flavor depth; feel free to add garlic powder for an extra kick!
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Adds a delightful crunch; you can substitute with regular breadcrumbs if needed.
• Butter/Oil – Essential for frying, enhances flavor, and creates a crispy coat; opt for olive oil for a healthier touch.

For Serving
• Gravy – Adds richness and moisture to the dish; serve with cranberry sauce for a sweet contrast.

Elevate your leftover experience with these tasty turkey stuffing balls that are sure to impress!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients at room temperature. If necessary, warm the mashed potatoes slightly to ensure a smoother mixing process. For drier stuffing, moisten it with a splash of broth. This will create the ideal texture for your flavorful Turkey stuffing balls, making them easier to shape and ensuring even cooking.

Step 2: Mix & Form
In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy mashed potatoes, your flavorful leftover stuffing, and shredded turkey. Season this mixture with a pinch of black pepper to enhance the taste. Using your hands, form the mixture into golf ball-sized portions, aiming for about 12 balls. The mixture should hold together well, giving you a perfect foundation for the crispy coating.

Step 3: Choose Your Cooking Method
Decide whether you would like to bake or pan-fry your Turkey stuffing balls. For baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the formed balls on the sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, until they’re golden and crispy. For frying, roll the balls in panko breadcrumbs and heat butter or oil in a nonstick skillet. Fry until they’re golden brown, turning gently for even cooking.

Step 4: Serve
Once cooked, remove your beautifully golden Turkey stuffing balls from the oven or skillet. Serve them hot, topped with rich gravy for a comforting touch. If desired, you can add a side of cranberry sauce for a delicious contrast in flavors. Enjoy these delightful bites right away, sharing them with family and friends for a cozy post-holiday snack.

Turkey Stuffing Balls Variations

Feel free to mix and match flavors as you create your own twist on these delicious stuffing balls!

Herbed Delight: Add minced garlic and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to infuse your stuffing balls with aromatic flavor. It’s a culinary hug in each bite!
Cheesy Surprise: Incorporate shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, into the mixture for a delightful melty surprise that everyone’s sure to love. The gooey texture elevates everything about this recipe!
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, mix in diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture. Spice lovers won’t be able to resist this tasty twist!
Vegetable Boost: Enhance your stuffing balls with finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for a nutritious color and added crunch. Your family will happily enjoy their veggies this way!
Gluten-Free Option: Swap out panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary needs while still achieving that crunchy texture. No one will miss the gluten here!
Low-Carb Choice: Substitute regular mashed potatoes with cauliflower mash for a lighter version that still boasts flavor and fluffiness. You’ll hardly notice the difference!

For additional delicious turkey meal ideas, don’t forget to check out my Turkey Stroganoff Comfort or explore scrumptious dishes like Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers. Enjoy creating your own memorable turkey stuffing balls!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Holiday Leftover Stuffing Balls are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time! You can prepare the mixture of mashed potatoes, stuffing, and turkey up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to the point of shaping the balls, and then refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to serve, you can either bake or fry them straight from the fridge, adjusting cooking time as they may need an extra minute or two. This way, you’ll have delicious appetizers ready for your guests with minimal effort, ensuring that your holiday leftovers are just as delightful!

What to Serve with Crispy Holiday Leftover Stuffing Balls

Enjoy your leftover stuffing balls right from the oven, paired with delightful additions that complete this cozy meal experience.

Savory Gravy: A thick, rich gravy elevates the flavor profile, providing moisture and warmth, making each bite even more indulgent.
Cranberry Sauce: The tart sweetness of cranberry sauce cuts through the savory flavors of the stuffing balls, creating a perfect balance.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies add a satisfying crunch, and their caramelized sweetness beautifully complements the stuffing balls’ rich flavors.
Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad offers vibrant textures and a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty stuffing balls, keeping the meal light.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting classic, echoing the stuffing’s flavors while lending a smooth texture that’s hard to resist.
Apple Cider: This warm, spiced drink brings a seasonal sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory elements of the meal, enveloping you in cozy vibes.
Herb-Infused Rice: Light and fluffy rice infused with herbs provides a delightful base, allowing the stuffing balls to shine while offering more substance to the plate.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, serve warm cookies to satisfy that sweet tooth, leaving everyone with fond memories of a delicious family meal.

How to Store and Freeze Turkey Stuffing Balls

Fridge: Store cooked Turkey stuffing balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, separate layers with parchment paper.

Freezer: Freeze uncooked Turkey stuffing balls on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cooking time.

Reheating: Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

Keep Fresh: If you’re not cooking them immediately, refrigerate the mixture for up to 1 day to maintain shape and flavor.

Expert Tips for Turkey Stuffing Balls

Keep it Moist: If your mixture feels dry, add a splash of broth or melted butter to ensure your Turkey stuffing balls are fluffy and flavorful.
Chill for Shape: For easier handling, refrigerate the mixture for 15-20 minutes before forming balls. This helps maintain their shape during cooking.
Customize Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite herbs, spices, or even cheese to the mixture. It’s a great way to make your Turkey stuffing balls uniquely delicious!
Perfect Cooking: Ensure your oil is hot enough when frying to achieve that perfect crispness. If baking, a lined baking sheet will help avoid sticking.
Freezing Tip: You can freeze the formed balls before cooking. Just bake or fry them directly from frozen for a quick, delicious snack whenever you need it!

Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! The best mashed potatoes for your Turkey stuffing balls should be creamy and smooth. If you’re using leftovers, ensure they don’t contain too many lumps. You can also use freshly made mashed potatoes for the best flavor. If you’re watching carbs, I recommend using cauliflower mash—it gives a similar texture and is lighter!

How long can I store Turkey stuffing balls in the refrigerator?
You can store your cooked Turkey stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Remember to separate the layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. To reheat them, pop them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they’re warm and crispy again.

Can I freeze uncooked Turkey stuffing balls?
Very! To freeze uncooked Turkey stuffing balls, first arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag. These can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, you can bake or fry them directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!

What should I do if my mixture seems too dry or crumbly?
If your Turkey stuffing balls mixture feels too dry, no worries! Simply add a splash of broth or a little melted butter to improve moisture. Mix until combined, and don’t hesitate to try forming one to check the consistency. The mixture should hold together well and be easy to shape, ensuring a delightful fluffiness in every bite.

Are these Turkey stuffing balls suitable for my gluten-free friends?
Certainly! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious Turkey stuffing balls without any worries. Always double-check the labels for any hidden gluten ingredients!

Can my pet enjoy Turkey stuffing balls?
It’s best not to feed your pets Turkey stuffing balls as they can contain ingredients like onions and garlic, which are harmful to pets. If you want to share the Thanksgiving spirit with your furry friends, set aside plain shredded turkey or some mashed potatoes without seasoning.