If you are looking for a delightful twist on classic comfort food, this Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe will become your new favorite. These little bites are packed with tender ground turkey, flavorful stuffing mix, and fresh herbs, baked to golden perfection. They are easy to make, wonderfully satisfying, and bring all the cozy flavors of a holiday meal into a fun, snackable form. Whether for a family dinner or a festive gathering, these turkey stuffing balls deliver warmth and taste in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that blend perfectly to create a moist, flavorful dish. Each component plays a crucial role, from the ground turkey providing lean protein to the stuffing mix adding that familiar savory texture.
- 1 lb lean ground turkey: The star protein that keeps these balls juicy and light.
- 2 cups stuffing mix: Adds texture and that classic stuffing taste everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the mixture moist without overpowering flavor.
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and depth once sautéed.
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced: Adds crunch and freshness to balance richness.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or sage, chopped: Infuses the balls with an herby aroma and subtle earthiness.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder, helping the ingredients hold together nicely.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s ready to bake your turkey stuffing balls evenly and develop that perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a skillet over medium heat, warm a splash of oil and sauté the chopped onion and celery until they become soft and fragrant, roughly 5 minutes. This step softens the veggies and enhances their natural sweetness, forming an essential flavor base.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the lean ground turkey, stuffing mix, sautéed onion and celery, low-sodium chicken broth, fresh herbs, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix gently just until everything is incorporated to keep the mixture tender without becoming tough.
Step 4: Form into Balls
Using your hands, roll the turkey mixture into 1-inch balls. Make sure they are uniform in size so they cook evenly. Place them spaced out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake the turkey stuffing balls in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until they are a beautiful golden brown and cooked through. This ensures a crispy exterior with a juicy inside that’s bursting with flavor.
How to Serve Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a drizzle of cranberry sauce adds color and a burst of freshness that complements the savory richness of the turkey stuffing balls beautifully. A little freshly cracked black pepper on top can also add a nice kick.
Side Dishes
These turkey stuffing balls pair wonderfully with traditional comfort sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a crisp autumn salad. For a lighter option, try serving with roasted Brussels sprouts or a medley of seasonal vegetables.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve on a platter with toothpicks for an easy appetizer at gatherings, or plate atop a bed of creamy gravy for a hearty main dish. You can also stuff these balls into warm pita pockets or slider buns for a fun sandwich twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover turkey stuffing balls can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavor and texture well, making them perfect for quick snacks or reheated meals.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the turkey stuffing balls on a baking sheet in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, ready to enjoy whenever a comforting snack calls your name.
Reheating
Reheat chilled or thawed turkey stuffing balls in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispy exterior, or microwave them for a quicker option (though they won’t be as crispy this way). Either method brings them back to delicious life without losing any charm.
FAQs
Can I use leftover turkey instead of ground turkey in this recipe?
You can, but using ground turkey helps the balls hold together better. If using leftover turkey, consider finely chopping it and adding a binder like extra egg or breadcrumbs to ensure they don’t fall apart.
What type of stuffing mix works best for this recipe?
Any savory stuffing mix works well, but a classic herb-flavored or cornbread-based stuffing will add great texture and flavor. Avoid pre-seasoned mixes with strong spices to keep the taste balanced.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free stuffing mix or substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Make sure all your other ingredients, like broth, are gluten-free as well.
Are Turkey Stuffing Balls suitable for freezing before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the raw balls before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze solid and then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready, bake straight from frozen, increasing the baking time by about 10 minutes.
How do I make sure the turkey stuffing balls don’t dry out?
Don’t overmix the ingredients and include enough chicken broth; it helps keep moisture in. Also, baking at the right temperature and not overcooking is key to maintaining juiciness.
Final Thoughts
This Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of a comforting meal with less fuss and so much charm. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving something warm and homemade, these bites deliver every time. I hope you give this recipe a try and find it as delightful and satisfying as I do!
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Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious, bite-sized twist on classic holiday stuffing, combining lean ground turkey with savory herbs, sautéed vegetables, and moist stuffing mix. Baked to golden perfection, they make a perfect appetizer or side dish for festive gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 2 cups stuffing mix
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or sage, chopped
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for baking the stuffing balls.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and celery, sautéing them until they soften, approximately 5 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and moisture of the stuffing balls.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the lean ground turkey, stuffing mix, sautéed onion and celery, low-sodium chicken broth, chopped fresh parsley or sage, egg, and salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix all the ingredients together until just combined to maintain texture without overworking the meat.
- Form Balls: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls, ensuring they are even in size for consistent baking. Place the formed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Bake until the stuffing balls are golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through the center, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Notes
- Use fresh herbs such as parsley or sage for the best flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted—use about 1 tablespoon dried if fresh is unavailable.
- To ensure the stuffing balls hold together well, do not overmix the turkey mixture.
- These stuffing balls can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main meal with a salad.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safety and perfect doneness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
