🦃 Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls: The Ultimate Holiday Leftover Hack
If you’ve ever found yourself overwhelmed with leftover turkey and stuffing after a big holiday feast, you’re going to love this easy and tasty recipe: Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls. They’re crispy, savory, and packed with all the comforting flavors of Thanksgiving — but in a fun, bite-sized form!
Transforming those leftovers into golden, crispy balls is not only a clever way to reduce waste, but it also makes for an irresistible appetizer, snack, or side dish that your family and guests will devour. Plus, they’re simple to prepare and can be baked or fried depending on your preference.
🧡 Why You’ll Love These Stuffing Balls
Perfect use for leftovers: A delicious way to breathe new life into turkey and stuffing.
Crispy outside, tender inside: The perfect texture combo.
Flavor-packed: All the herbs, seasoning, and turkey goodness in one bite.
Versatile: Great for snacks, party appetizers, or a side dish.
Kid-friendly: Easy to eat and super tasty.
🧂 Ingredients
2 cups leftover stuffing (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup cooked turkey, finely chopped
1 large egg
½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
¼ cup chopped green onions or fresh parsley
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for binding or coating)
Cooking oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for baking)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven or Prepare for Frying
If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. For frying, heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
2. Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the stuffing, chopped turkey, egg, cheese, green onions, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper.
If the mixture feels too wet, add some breadcrumbs to help bind it.
3. Form the Balls
Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Cook the Stuffing Balls
Baking: Place the balls on the baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp.
Frying: Carefully fry the balls in hot oil, turning occasionally, for about 3–4 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve Warm
Serve your stuffing balls warm with gravy, cranberry sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with warm gravy for dipping.
