The perfect way to transform leftover stuffing and turkey into a crispy, savory, and irresistible appetizer or side dish. These golden-brown balls are moist on the inside, crunchy on the outside, and packed with holiday flavor. Serve them with cranberry sauce or gravy for dipping, and watch them disappear!
Classic Stuffing Balls
Ingredients:
· 2 cups leftover stuffing (preferably moist/dressing-style)
· 1 cup finely chopped or shredded leftover turkey
· ½ cup leftover mashed potatoes OR 1 large egg, beaten (binder)
· ¼ cup leftover gravy OR ¼ cup chicken/turkey broth (plus more as needed)
· ¼ cup finely chopped celery & onion (optional, for extra texture)
· 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or sage
· ½ cup all-purpose flour or seasoned breadcrumbs (for coating)
· Salt and pepper to taste (stuffing is often well-seasoned already)
· For frying/air-frying: 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil (if pan-frying)
· For baking: 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
Optional Glaze/Topping:
· 2 tablespoons melted butter mixed with 1 tsp poultry seasoning or garlic powder
· 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (for a sweet-savory version)
Instructions:
- Prep:
· Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
· If your leftover stuffing is very dry, break it up in a large bowl and sprinkle with 1-2 tablespoons of broth to moisten slightly. It should hold together when squeezed.
- Mix:
· In a large bowl, combine the stuffing, turkey, mashed potatoes (or beaten egg), gravy (or broth), optional vegetables, and herbs.
· Mix gently with your hands or a fork until everything is evenly distributed. The mixture should hold together when pressed. If it’s too dry, add more broth, 1 tablespoon at a time. If too wet, add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs or flour.
- Shape:
· Scoop out portions (about 2 tablespoons each) and roll into 1½-inch balls.
· Roll each ball lightly in flour or breadcrumbs to coat. This creates a crispier exterior.
- Cook (Choose Your Method):
A. Oven-Baked (Easiest & Healthier):
· Place balls on the prepared baking sheet. Brush or drizzle with melted butter or oil.
· Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and heated through.
B. Pan-Fried (Extra Crispy):
· Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
· Cook balls in batches, turning occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until browned and crispy on all sides.
C. Air Fryer (Fast & Crisp):
· Lightly spray balls with oil. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Serve:
· If desired, brush with seasoned butter or honey glaze right after cooking.
· Serve hot with cranberry sauce, gravy, or a creamy dipping sauce.
5-Star Dipping Sauces:
- Cranberry Mayo: Mix ½ cup mayo with ¼ cup whole-berry cranberry sauce.
- Creamy Herb Dip: Combine ½ cup sour cream, 2 tbsp chopped herbs, 1 tsp lemon juice.
- Spicy Maple Mustard: Whisk ¼ cup Dijon mustard with 2 tbsp maple syrup and a dash of hot sauce.
- Quick Turkey Gravy: Reheat leftover gravy with a splash of broth.
Pro Tips:
· Binder Choice: Mashed potatoes make them extra tender; egg makes them firmer.
· Moisture Check: The mixture must hold together. If it crumbles, add more binder (egg/gravy).
· Size Consistency: Use a cookie scoop for even cooking.
· Make-Ahead: Shape balls and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.
· Crispy Secret: A light coating of flour/breadcrumbs is key for texture.
Creative Variations:
· Cheesy Stuffing Balls: Add ½ cup shredded cheddar or Gruyère to the mix.
· Thanksgiving Leftover Balls: Add 2 tbsp diced leftover sweet potato and 1 tbsp chopped bacon.
· Southwest Style: Mix in ¼ cup corn, 2 tbsp chopped green chiles, and use pepper jack cheese.
· Breakfast Stuffing Balls: Add cooked sausage crumbles and serve with maple syrup.
Storage & Reheating:
· Fridge: Cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
· Freeze: Place cooked, cooled balls on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
· Reheat: Bake at 350°F until heated through (15 mins from fridge, 20-25 from frozen). Air fryer reheats them perfectly in 5-7 minutes.
Why You’ll Love These: They’re the ultimate holiday leftover hack—transforming remnants into a brand-new, crave-worthy dish that’s even better than the original feast.
Enjoy your delicious, no-waste creation!
