If you’re looking for the most irresistible way to use up holiday turkey and stuffing, look no further than this Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe. These savory little bites are crispy on the outside, tender within, and bursting with all the comforting flavors of Thanksgiving. They’re incredibly easy to make, perfect for sharing, and are always the star of the appetizer table—or just what you crave for a post-holiday leftover snack!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This is one of those magical recipes where every ingredient serves a delicious purpose. Simple, everyday staples combine in the Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe to create something truly memorable, with the turkey adding protein, the stuffing delivering flavor and texture, and just a few seasonings tying it all together.
- Cooked turkey: Shredded or finely chopped, it provides succulence and hearty flavor—perfect for leftover turkey.
- Prepared stuffing: Homemade or boxed, stuffing is the backbone here, soaking up moisture and lending all those signature holiday aromas.
- Large eggs: The binding magic—these hold everything together, so your balls stay perfectly shaped.
- Chicken or turkey broth: Adds just enough moisture to keep things tender without getting soggy.
- Dried sage: A classic seasoning that brings out the Thanksgiving spirit, even weeks after the holiday.
- Garlic powder: Rounds out the savory profile, giving the balls extra depth of flavor.
- Onion powder: Enhances overall savoriness without any visible onion bits.
- Salt and pepper: Essential to season and elevate the other ingredients—taste and adjust as you go!
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Gives a lovely touch of color and freshness—totally worth it if you have some on hand.
- Olive oil or melted butter (for brushing): Helps produce that golden, mouthwatering crust everyone loves.
How to Make Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
To start the Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light coating of oil. This ensures your stuffing balls won’t stick and allows for easy cleanup—trust me, you’ll want nothing to slow you down from tasting these!
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded or chopped turkey, prepared stuffing, eggs, broth, sage, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley (if you’re using it). Stir everything together until the mixture comes together and clumps easily, but isn’t too wet. If the mixture is too dry, add a splash more broth; too wet, toss in a spoonful more stuffing.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
Now for the fun (and slightly messy) part! Scoop up portions of the mixture—about the size of a golf ball, or roughly two tablespoons—and gently roll them between your hands. Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet, giving them a little space as they cook.
Step 4: Add That Golden Finish
Lightly brush the tops of each stuffing ball with olive oil or melted butter. This step gives them an irresistibly crisp, golden-brown finish once baked, which makes such a difference for texture and presentation.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your tray in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a beautiful golden color on the outside and for the centers to be heated through. The aroma will have everyone hovering around the kitchen!
How to Serve Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Garnishes
A little sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and a fresh aroma to your Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe. You could also top each ball with a drizzle of warm turkey gravy or a dollop of cranberry sauce for that extra hit of classic holiday flavor.
Side Dishes
Serve these alongside a light salad, roasted veggies, or classic mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. For parties, pair with dipping sauces like gravy, cranberry relish, or even a creamy aioli to make the Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe the centerpiece of your appetizer spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the stuffing balls on a platter in a wreath shape for holiday gatherings, or set them in mini muffin liners for easy grab-and-go snacking. Toothpicks or small skewers make them perfect for cocktail parties, and stacking them on a rustic wooden board turns leftovers into a stunning feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply let any leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep nicely in the fridge for up to three days, just waiting to be snacked on or repurposed as a next-day lunch.
Freezing
For meal prep magic, shape the balls and freeze them (unbaked) on a tray until firm, then store in freezer bags for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as the recipe directs—the Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe will taste just as wonderful as fresh!
Reheating
To reheat, pop the balls on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes or until heated through. This helps them stay crisp on the outside and beautifully soft inside, far better than microwaving, which can make them a bit soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other meats in this Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe?
Absolutely! While turkey is classic, cooked chicken or even ham makes a tasty substitute. Just keep the amounts the same and the results will be just as delicious.
What type Appetizer
Both homemade and boxed stuffing work perfectly; try to use one that’s flavorful and not too wet. If it’s very moist, you may need to add a little extra turkey or breadcrumbs to help the balls hold together.
Can I make these Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe gluten-free?
Yes—you can easily substitute a gluten-free stuffing or bread in place of regular, and the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your broth and spices.
Do I need to serve them with a sauce?
No sauce is strictly necessary, but a little warmed gravy or fruity cranberry sauce elevates every bite! They’re also great as-is, especially for a grab-and-go snack.
Can I make the Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe in advance?
You can! Shape the balls and either refrigerate for up to a day before baking, or freeze as described above. This makes entertaining and meal planning a total breeze.
Final Thoughts
Give this Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe a try—the combination of savory turkey, herby stuffing, and crispy edges is just impossible to resist! Whether you’re sharing with friends or savoring leftovers, this little twist on tradition just might become a new holiday favorite.
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Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 balls (serves 4–6) 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers or enjoy a holiday-inspired appetizer any time of year. With a crispy exterior and a flavorful, moist interior, these savory bites are perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked turkey (shredded or finely chopped)
- 4 cups prepared stuffing (homemade or boxed)
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup chicken or turkey broth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine turkey, stuffing, eggs, broth, seasonings, and parsley if using. Mix until combined.
- Form Balls: Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized balls and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Brush the balls with oil or butter and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and heated through.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with gravy or cranberry sauce.
Notes
- Great for using up Thanksgiving leftovers.
- Freeze before baking for a make-ahead meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2–3 balls
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
