Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious and easy way to transform your holiday leftovers into a comforting snack or side dish. They combine leftover turkey, stuffing, and a few simple ingredients to create crispy, golden bites that are flavorful, moist inside, and perfect for dipping in gravy or cranberry sauce. These balls are ideal for family gatherings, quick lunches, or meal prep after Thanksgiving or Christmas. With minimal effort, you can turn leftovers into something everyone will love again.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped
- 2 cups leftover stuffing
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional for binding)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- Gravy or cranberry sauce for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped turkey, stuffing, egg, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings. Mix gently until all ingredients are well combined. If the mixture feels too dry, add a tablespoon of broth or melted butter; if too wet, add breadcrumbs.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into firm balls using your hands. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.
- Brush the tops with melted butter or olive oil to help them crisp up while baking.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and heated through. For extra crispiness, you can broil them for the last 2 minutes.
- Serve warm with gravy, cranberry sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Servings
Makes about 12 stuffing balls, serving 4 people.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 210
Protein: 14g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 280mg
Sugar: 1g
Notes
You can air fry these stuffing balls at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes for a quicker, crispier version. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture. These can also be frozen before or after baking for future use.
Tips
- Add a bit of shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for a gooey center.
- Use fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for added aroma.
- If you prefer a richer flavor, mix in a spoonful of gravy before forming the balls.
- To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them entirely if the mixture holds well.
Health Benefits
This recipe provides a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, making it satisfying and energizing. Turkey is a lean source of protein and contains essential vitamins like B6 and niacin that support metabolism and brain function. Using leftovers reduces food waste, making this dish both eco-friendly and budget-friendly. Baking instead of frying also keeps it lower in fat while maintaining a crispy texture.
Q & A
