Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even a hearty roast dinner often leaves us with an abundance of delicious leftovers. Instead of reheating the same meal repeatedly, why not transform those leftovers into something new and exciting? Enter Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls—a flavorful and satisfying recipe that combines turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and gravy into crispy, golden-brown bites of comfort. These stuffing balls are perfect as appetizers, snacks, or even a main dish served with a fresh salad. This recipe not only helps you reduce food waste but also brings new life to classic holiday flavors.

Ingredients:

• Gravy: To taste (adjust based on the consistency of the mixture).
• Chopped turkey meat: 1 ½ cups.
• Mashed potatoes: 3 cups.
• Stuffing: 3 cups.
• Panko breadcrumbs: As needed for coating.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes.
• Cook Time: 25 minutes.
• Total Time: 40 minutes.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Prepare the Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing.
   • Add a few spoonfuls of gravy to moisten the mixture and help bind the ingredients together. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
   • Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
3. Shape the Balls:
   • Using your hands or a cookie scoop, portion out the mixture into small balls, approximately 1 ½ inches in diameter.
   • Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re evenly spaced apart.
4. Coat with Breadcrumbs:
   • Pour panko breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Roll each ball in the breadcrumbs to coat evenly. This will give the stuffing balls a delightful crispy exterior.
5. Bake to Perfection:
   • Bake the stuffing balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and heated through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Once baked, remove the stuffing balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
   • Serve them warm with additional gravy on the side for dipping or drizzling.

Serving Suggestions:

• These stuffing balls are versatile and can be enjoyed as they are, served as a side dish, or paired with a crisp salad for a balanced meal.
• They also make a fantastic appetizer for holiday parties or gatherings.

Tips and Variations:

• Add Cheese: Incorporate shredded cheese into the mixture for extra flavor and creaminess. Cheddar or mozzarella work well.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the turkey with chopped roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the mixture and shape the balls ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Air Fryer Method: For a quicker and crispier result, cook the balls in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are a creative and delicious way to repurpose holiday leftovers. With their crispy exterior and flavorful, moist interior, they’re sure to become a family favorite. This recipe not only minimizes waste but also maximizes taste, making it a win-win for any home cook. So next time you’re staring at a fridge full of leftovers, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Enjoy these savory bites of holiday goodness, and don’t forget to share them with loved ones. After all, the best meals are the ones shared together.