As the last remnants of Thanksgiving dinner linger in the air, my favorite tradition kicks into high gear: transforming those leftovers into something magical. Enter these Crispy Thanksgiving Leftover Stuffing Balls—an ingenious way to breathe new life into your holiday feast. The delightful crunch of panko breadcrumbs gives way to a fluffy interior packed with the cozy flavors of turkey and savory stuffing. They’re perfect for a casual snack while lounging in front of the TV or as a show-stopping appetizer for your next gathering.
After a feast filled with rich dishes, it feels wonderful to create a meal that’s both comforting and inventive. These little bites of joy not only carry the spirit of Thanksgiving but also provide a creative solution to the inevitable question of what to do with the surplus turkey and stuffing. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a crowd-pleasing dish that’s quicker to prepare than you’d think—proving that leftovers can indeed shine brighter than the main event!
Why you’ll love these Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Deliciousness Redefined: These Turkey Stuffing Balls transform classic Thanksgiving flavors into an irresistible snack.
Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you’ll be enjoying these crispy delights in no time, perfect for those busy days after the holiday.
Versatile Enjoyment: Ideal as appetizers for gatherings or cozy snacks for movie nights, they fit any occasion effortlessly.
Texture Nirvana: Experience a perfect crunch from the panko coating, combined with a fluffy and flavorful filling that’s simply delightful.
Waste Not, Want Not: This recipe makes the most of your leftover turkey and stuffing, turning what could be waste into a dish everyone will crave.
Make sure to try them out and enjoy the cozy goodness of Thanksgiving long after the holiday has passed!
Turkey Stuffing Balls Ingredients
• Use these ingredients to transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a delightful dish everyone will love!
For the Base
- Leftover Stuffing – Forms the flavorful foundation; make sure it’s well-seasoned for the best taste.
- Mashed Potatoes – Adds creaminess and helps bind the stuffing balls; sweet potatoes can be used as a unique twist.
- Cooked Turkey – Provides protein and substance; feel free to substitute with chicken or vegetarian options if desired.
For the Coating
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Ensures a crispy outer layer; regular breadcrumbs work in a pinch, although the texture may differ.
- Egg – Binds everything together; for a vegan version, try using a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture.
These ingredients will not only help create irresistible Turkey Stuffing Balls but also breathe new life into your holiday leftovers!
How to Make Turkey Stuffing Balls
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Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the leftover stuffing, mashed potatoes, and finely shredded turkey. Stir gently until the mixture is well blended and holds together nicely.
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Shape the Balls: Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. This size helps ensure each ball cooks evenly and has a delightful crunch.
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Coat with Panko: Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs until completely coated. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy outer layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
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Heat the Skillet: Set a skillet over medium heat and add a generous amount of oil. Once the oil shimmers, it’s time to fry these delicious morsels.
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Fry Until Golden: Carefully add the stuffed balls to the hot skillet, frying them until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 2-3 minutes for each side. This will give them that irresistible crunch.
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Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the balls from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels. This helps keep them from getting soggy. Serve warm for the best experience!
Optional: Serve with a side of cranberry sauce for a delightful sweet contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Turkey Stuffing Balls?
These delightful bites are perfect for elevating any meal with warmth and comfort.
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Cranberry Sauce: The sweet and tart flavors balance the savory stuffing balls, making every bite a flavor explosion.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, they create a comforting side that complements the crispy texture of the stuffing balls beautifully.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness adds contrast, while a drizzle of balsamic glaze brings sweetness, creating a harmonious plate.
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Butternut Squash Soup: A warm bowl of this creamy soup wraps the meal in a cozy embrace, enhancing the overall comfort food experience.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing blend of greens with a zesty vinaigrette provides a light counterpoint, allowing the stuffing balls to shine.
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Apple Cider Sangria: This fruity, refreshing drink infused with spices will enhance the cozy feel of your meal, making it festive and fun.
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Pumpkin Pie: Cap off your meal with this classic, bringing cherished holiday flavors full circle while adding a touch of sweetness.
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Cheesy Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery layers of flavor add a delightful twist, perfect for dipping the stuffing balls or savored on their own.
Make Ahead Options
These Turkey Stuffing Balls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday hustle! You can prepare the mixture of leftover stuffing, mashed potatoes, and turkey up to 24 hours in advance. Simply form the mixture into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then cover and refrigerate. This not only keeps them fresh but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy, just roll them in panko breadcrumbs and fry them according to the recipe instructions. This way, you’ll have delicious, crispy bites on the table with minimal effort!
Turkey Stuffing Balls Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delicious bites just the way you like them!
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Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or pepper jack cheese for a zesty kick that’ll leave your taste buds dancing.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like sage, thyme, or rosemary for a fragrant burst that elevates the classic flavors.
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Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a melty surprise in the center of each stuffing ball.
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Sweet Surprise: Place a dollop of cranberry sauce inside before cooking for delightful contrast in every bite.
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Tex-Mex Style: Add cooked black beans and salsa to give a Southwestern flair that’s perfect for a casual gathering.
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Dijon Adventure: Blend in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the mixture for a tangy twist that complements the turkey beautifully.
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Vegetarian Option: Swap turkey for shredded jackfruit or chickpeas, maintaining the heartiness while catering to plant-based diets.
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Alternative Coating: Instead of panko, coat the balls with crushed cornflakes for a different crunchy texture that kids will love.
These variations will help you transform your Turkey Stuffing Balls into something truly special, each bite a new adventure!
How to Store and Freeze Turkey Stuffing Balls
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Room Temperature: Keep cooked Turkey Stuffing Balls out for a maximum of 2 hours. After this, it’s best to refrigerate to ensure freshness.
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Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and moisture while keeping them ready for quick snacking.
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Freezer: Freeze uncooked Turkey Stuffing Balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: To reheat, bake frozen Turkey Stuffing Balls directly from the freezer in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through and crispy again.
Expert Tips for Turkey Stuffing Balls
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Cool Leftovers: Allow your leftover stuffing to cool before mixing. Warm stuffing can lead to a runny consistency that makes shaping difficult.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding the pan. This ensures each Turkey Stuffing Ball cooks evenly and achieves that desired golden crunch.
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Crispy Coating: For an extra crispy finish, use panko breadcrumbs. They provide the perfect texture, so stick with them for the best Turkey Stuffing Balls.
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Season Wisely: Taste the mixture before frying. If it needs a boost, sprinkle in additional herbs or spices to enhance the flavor profile.
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Dipping Delight: Don’t forget to serve with cranberry sauce or aioli on the side. This adds a wonderful flavor contrast and elevates your Turkey Stuffing Balls.
Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe FAQs
What type of leftover stuffing works best for Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Absolutely! It’s ideal to use well-seasoned leftover stuffing for the best flavor. Look for stuffing that’s moist but not overly wet; this ensures a cohesive mixture when blending with mashed potatoes and turkey.
How should I store leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Very! Store cooked Turkey Stuffing Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave, which can make them soggy.
Can I freeze uncooked Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Definitely! To freeze, place the uncooked stuffing balls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, about 1 hour. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, where they can last up to 3 months.
What should I do if my stuffing balls aren’t holding together?
If you find your mixture is falling apart, don’t fret! Mix in another egg to help bind them together. You can also add a bit more mashed potato, which provides additional moisture and helps maintain their structure. Mix thoroughly and reshape the balls before frying.
Are Turkey Stuffing Balls suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, substitute the cooked turkey with a plant-based protein like lentils or mushrooms. Ensure your stuffing is also vegetarian-friendly to complement the recipe. They’ll still be just as delicious!
Can my pet eat leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls?
It’s wise to exercise caution here! While plain turkey and potatoes can be safe for dogs and cats in moderation, avoid giving them any stuffing that contains onions, garlic, or spices, which can be harmful. Always consult your vet for specific dietary concerns.
Delicious Turkey Stuffing Balls You’ll Crave After Thanksgiving
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the leftover stuffing, mashed potatoes, and finely shredded turkey. Stir gently until the mixture is well blended and holds together nicely.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
- Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs until completely coated.
- Set a skillet over medium heat and add a generous amount of oil.
- Carefully add the stuffed balls to the hot skillet, frying them until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes for each side.
- Remove the balls from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels. Serve warm.