Turkey and Stuffing Balls are a delicious twist on the classic holiday meal. These bite-sized balls combine tender turkey and flavorful stuffing, making them perfect for an appetizer, party platter, or a fun take on Thanksgiving dinner. They are easy to make and great for using up leftover turkey and stuffing.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Introduction
Turkey and Stuffing Balls are a wonderful way to repurpose Thanksgiving or Christmas leftovers, but they are also so tasty that you may find yourself making them year-round. These savory balls are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, delivering all the comforting flavors of a traditional turkey dinner in a convenient bite. They are perfect served with gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped or shredded
- 2 cups prepared stuffing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray or olive oil, for baking
- Gravy or cranberry sauce, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped turkey, stuffing, Parmesan cheese, dried cranberries (if using), beaten egg, dried sage, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the Balls: Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs until evenly coated. This will give the balls a crispy exterior.
- Bake: Lightly spray the balls with cooking spray or drizzle them with a little olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
Cook Notes & Tips
- Leftovers: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover turkey and stuffing. If your stuffing is too dry, add a tablespoon or two of broth to help bind the mixture.
- Crispy Coating: For extra crispiness, you can toast the panko breadcrumbs in a skillet with a bit of butter before coating the balls.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the turkey and stuffing balls ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake.
Variations
- Cheese-Stuffed: Add a small cube of mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the center of each ball for a cheesy surprise.
- Sausage and Stuffing Balls: Replace some or all of the turkey with crumbled cooked sausage for a different flavor.
- Herb Flavor Boost: Add 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme for an extra herbaceous kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Freeze Turkey and Stuffing Balls?
Yes, you can freeze them! Once the balls are formed (but before baking), place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
2. Can I Use Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Cooked chicken works just as well in this recipe, making it a versatile way to use up leftovers.
3. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover turkey and stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Turkey and Stuffing Balls are a fun, delicious way to enjoy the flavors of a classic holiday meal without all the fuss. With a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful center, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these tasty bites are sure to please.
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors of turkey and stuffing in every bite!
Happy Cooking!
