If you’re looking for a delightful twist on your classic holiday flavors, this Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe is guaranteed to steal the show. Perfectly combining savory turkey, hearty stuffing, and creamy mashed potatoes, these bite-sized delights are crispy on the outside with a tender, flavorful center. They are incredibly versatile, whether you want an appetizer, a fun side, or a snack that warms your heart. Trust me, once you try this Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe, it might just become a new family favorite for every occasion!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each element plays a vital role — from the creamy mashed potatoes binding everything together to the sharp Parmesan adding a touch of nuttiness and richness. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why it all matters.
- 2 cups mashed potatoes: Acts as the perfect binder with a creamy texture that keeps the balls moist.
- 2 cups stuffing: Adds that classic, herbaceous flavor and pleasant bite you crave.
- 1 cup shredded turkey: The star protein, bringing savory depth and leftover goodness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty punch enhancing every bite.
- 1 egg, beaten: Helps everything hold together beautifully when cooked.
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs: Provides the perfect crispy coating for a golden finish.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances and brightens all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
How to Make Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
Start by combining your mashed potatoes, stuffing, and shredded turkey in a large mixing bowl. This trio creates the flavorful base for your stuffing balls. Adding the beaten egg and grated Parmesan next helps bind the ingredients while infusing a rich, cheesy note. Don’t forget to sprinkle in the salt and pepper for that balanced seasoning.
Step 2: Form the Balls
Once your mixture is well combined, it’s time to get your hands dirty! Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized balls — about the size of a golf ball. This size ensures every nugget has a perfect crispy exterior and a soft, satisfying center. Roll each ball lightly in the bread crumbs to coat evenly, setting the stage for a crunchy crust.
Step 3: Cook to Crispy Perfection
Heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Carefully place your balls in the hot oil, giving each enough space to crisp up rather than steam. Fry them until they are golden brown on all sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Once cooked, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, keeping them crisp and delicious.
How to Serve Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe truly pop, consider topping them with fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of cranberry sauce on the side adds that perfect sweet contrast, making each bite even more festive and fun.
Side Dishes
These balls pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Think creamy mashed sweet potatoes, steamed green beans with a hint of garlic, or even a fresh garden salad. Their versatility means they can complement a full holiday feast or simply be the star of a casual weeknight dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Turkey Stuffing Balls on skewers with cherry tomatoes and fresh herbs for a party platter. Or arrange them around a bowl of warm gravy or ranch dip to make dipping irresistible. Presentation can elevate your Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe from simple snack to eye-catching appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, no worries! Place the stuffing balls in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating gently keeps their texture intact and flavors fresh.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? Freeze the uncooked balls on a lined baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months, ideal for prepping ahead of time or having a handy snack on demand.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat turkey stuffing balls in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crisp exterior without drying them out. Avoid microwaving if you want to retain that satisfying crunch.
FAQs
Can I use leftover turkey for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover turkey adds wonderful flavor and keeps waste to a minimum. Just make sure it’s shredded well so it mixes easily with the other ingredients.
Are turkey stuffing balls gluten-free?
This depends on the stuffing and bread crumbs you use. To make it gluten-free, choose gluten-free stuffing and bread crumbs available at many grocery stores.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Baking at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes until golden can be a healthier alternative. Just make sure to flip them halfway for even browning.
What’s the best way to keep the balls from falling apart?
The egg and mashed potatoes act as binders, so make sure to mix them thoroughly into the stuffing and turkey. If the mixture feels too loose, add a bit more bread crumbs.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Definitely. Fresh sage, thyme, or rosemary work beautifully with turkey flavors. Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own!
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting and joyous about the Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe that makes every bite feel like a warm hug. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or simply craving a new way to enjoy your leftovers, this recipe promises a perfect blend of texture and taste. I hope you have as much fun making and sharing these as I do. Give it a try and get ready to impress everyone at your table!
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Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings 1x
Description
Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or side dish perfect for holiday gatherings. Made from a flavorful mixture of mashed potatoes, stuffing, shredded turkey, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings, these bite-sized balls are baked until golden brown, offering a comforting blend of savory tastes and textures.
Ingredients
Turkey Stuffing Balls Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 2 cups stuffing
- 1 cup shredded turkey
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the stuffing balls.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, stuffing, shredded turkey, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, bread crumbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form balls: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls about the size of a golf ball, ensuring they hold together without falling apart.
- Prepare baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Place the stuffing balls evenly spaced on the sheet.
- Bake: Bake the stuffing balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Serve: Remove the stuffing balls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving as a tasty appetizer or side dish.
Notes
- Use leftover Thanksgiving stuffing and turkey for a quick and easy recipe.
- You can substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- For extra crispiness, lightly brush the balls with olive oil before baking.
- These can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free bread crumbs and stuffing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
