Leftover Turkey and Stuffing Balls: A Delicious Holiday Transformation

The holiday season often leaves us with an abundance of leftover turkey and stuffing. Instead of merely reheating them, consider transforming these ingredients into something unique and flavorful: Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls. These delightful bites offer a crunchy exterior and a soft, savory interior, making them a perfect snack or appetizer. Not only are they delicious, but they also help reduce food waste creatively.

Versatile Serving Options

Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a starter at your next gathering, as a delightful side dish, or as a snack for game day. Pair them with your favorite sauces for added flavor, or enjoy them alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a quick lunch.

Elevate Your Leftovers

These stuffing balls breathe new life into your holiday leftovers, transforming them into a crispy, tasty treat that everyone will love. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, they add an exciting twist to your usual holiday fare. Here’s how to make them from start to finish.

Ingredients

• 3 cups leftover stuffing
• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or finely chopped
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (optional, for added flavor)
• 1/2 cup grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional, for creaminess)
• 1/4 cup turkey gravy (or chicken broth, as needed)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, whisked
• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola preferred)
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)

Preparation

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the leftover stuffing, shredded turkey, cranberry sauce (if using), and cheese. Gradually add the gravy or broth until the mixture is moist enough to hold together when squeezed. Adjust the consistency by adding more gravy if too dry, or more stuffing/breadcrumbs if too wet.
2. Form the Balls: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, shape the mixture into golf ball-sized balls, ensuring they hold together firmly. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Dredge the Balls: Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs. Coat each stuffing ball in flour, dip it in the egg, and then roll it in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Chill: For best results, refrigerate the coated balls for 15-20 minutes. This step helps firm them up, preventing them from breaking apart during cooking.
5. Cook the Balls:
   • Frying: In a deep pan or pot, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the stuffing balls in batches until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove them, letting them drain on paper towels.
   • Baking: For a lighter option, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the balls on a greased baking sheet, lightly spray with cooking spray, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and heated through.
6. Serve: Enjoy the stuffing balls warm, paired with turkey gravy, cranberry sauce, or your preferred dipping sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Tips for the Best Turkey Stuffing Balls

• Use Fresh or Leftover Stuffing: Both options work well. If the mixture feels dry, simply add more gravy or broth.
• Customize Your Add-ins: Get creative! Incorporate diced vegetables, herbs, or even a bit of mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
• Make Ahead and Freeze: Prepare the stuffing balls in advance and freeze them before cooking. Just shape, cover, and freeze on a baking tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Fry or bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Healthier Cooking: For a healthier alternative, use an air fryer set to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 10-12 minutes until crispy and golden.