There’s something almost magical about waking up the day after Thanksgiving, isn’t there? The fridge is full, the house smells faintly of roasted turkey and buttery stuffing, and everyone’s craving something just a little different from yesterday’s feast. That’s exactly where these Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls come in. They take everything you love about the holiday — tender turkey, herby stuffing, creamy potatoes — and transform it into bite-sized golden bliss. Think crispy on the outside, soft and savory on the inside, and just begging to be dipped in hot gravy. If you’ve ever wondered how to make leftovers feel special again, this is it.
What I love most about this recipe (besides how crazy-good it tastes) is how easy it is. There’s no need for exact measurements, no fancy ingredients — just simple comfort food you can shape with your hands. You can even get the kids involved; they’ll love rolling the mixture into little balls. And if you’re already dreaming about your next comfort-food fix, check out these creative holiday leftover ideas from Delish for even more inspiration. Whether you bake or fry them, serve them as snacks or appetizers, these stuffing balls will earn a permanent spot in your post-holiday tradition.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients come straight from your Thanksgiving table — with just a couple of extras to bring it all together. Here’s what you’ll need (and a few tips to make them perfect):
- Leftover Stuffing – The base of your mixture. If it’s a bit dry, moisten with a splash of broth before mixing.
- Mashed Potatoes – Add creaminess and help everything bind together. Cold or room temp works fine.
- Shredded Turkey – White or dark meat both work. Shred finely so it blends evenly.
- Eggs (1–2) – Help hold the mixture together when shaping the balls.
- Panko Bread Crumbs – Optional, but they give that irresistible crispy edge.
- Butter or Oil – For frying or brushing if baking; helps get that golden crunch.
- Gravy – The ultimate finishing touch for serving (warm it up for dipping or drizzling).
- Salt & Pepper – Adjust seasoning before shaping, since leftovers can vary in flavor.
- Cranberry Sauce (Optional) – For a tangy-sweet contrast that makes every bite pop.
How to Make Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls
This recipe is all about cozy simplicity. Here’s how to turn your fridge full of leftovers into a crispy, crave-worthy snack:
- Combine the Good Stuff
In a large mixing bowl, combine equal parts stuffing and mashed potatoes. Add your shredded turkey and mix with a spoon or your hands until everything is evenly blended. You’re aiming for a texture that holds together but isn’t too sticky. - Add the Binder
Crack in one egg and mix well. If the mixture still feels crumbly, add another egg or a spoonful of gravy. The consistency should be similar to meatballs — moist but firm. - Form the Balls
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. If it sticks, lightly oil your hands. Arrange the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. - Optional: Coat with Panko
For that extra crunch, roll each ball gently in panko breadcrumbs. This step is optional but adds that fried-food satisfaction without much effort. - Cook to Crispy Perfection
- To Bake: Brush lightly with butter or oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through.
- To Pan-Fry: Heat a bit of butter and oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry until all sides are golden brown and crispy, about 6–8 minutes total.
- Serve and Enjoy
Plate them up warm and drizzle with hot gravy or serve with a dipping bowl on the side. Optional cranberry sauce makes a festive touch.
Tips & Variations
- Add Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for extra gooey centers.
- Use Ham or Chicken: Not just for turkey! Any cooked meat will work.
- Crispy Upgrade: Use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking once halfway.
- Make Ahead: Roll the balls, refrigerate overnight, and cook just before serving.
- Freeze for Later: Lay on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a bag. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until hot.
- Flavor Boosts: A pinch of garlic powder or minced herbs like rosemary or parsley adds amazing aroma.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffing balls are endlessly versatile. Serve them:
- As appetizers on a holiday platter with toothpicks and small bowls of gravy and cranberry sauce.
- With a simple salad for a lighter meal after a big feast.
- Alongside scrambled eggs for a savory breakfast twist.
- As a game-day snack — drizzle with ranch or hot honey for a fun flavor flip.
- Even as a holiday leftovers dinner, paired with roasted veggies and a side of extra gravy.
Presentation tip: Serve on a rustic board or white platter with fresh herbs sprinkled on top — Pinterest perfection.
FAQs About Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Shape the balls, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. They’ll actually hold together even better when chilled.
2. How do I keep them from falling apart?
Make sure your mixture isn’t too dry. Add a bit of broth or gravy, and use an egg to help bind everything together.
3. Can I freeze them?
Yes — freeze them before or after cooking. Reheat baked or fried ones in an oven at 375°F until hot and crisp again.
4. What if I don’t have mashed potatoes?
You can use sweet potatoes, or even a bit of cream cheese mixed with stuffing and turkey for binding.
5. Can I bake instead of frying?
Definitely! Baking gives a slightly softer texture, while frying makes them crispier. Either way, they’re delicious.
6. How do I reheat leftovers?
Pop them in the air fryer or oven to keep the exterior crispy. Avoid microwaving — they’ll turn soft and lose that crunch.
Final Thoughts
Turning leftovers into something new and exciting is one of the best feelings after a big holiday meal. These Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls make it effortless — warm, cozy, and just indulgent enough to make you forget they’re made from yesterday’s dinner. Whether you’re feeding family, guests, or just yourself, these little bites deliver comfort in every crispy, savory mouthful.
If you love creative ways to use holiday leftovers, you’ll also enjoy this roundup of comforting winter recipes from Taste of Home. It’s packed with ideas to help you make the most of every festive bite.
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Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe (Crispy, Cozy & Easy!)
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into something deliciously new with these crispy, golden Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls. They’re cozy, quick to make, and the perfect way to give turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes a second life. Serve them with warm gravy or cranberry sauce for an irresistible post-holiday snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
2 cups leftover stuffing (moisten with broth if dry)
2 cups mashed potatoes (cold or room temperature)
1 cup shredded turkey (white or dark meat)
1–2 eggs, beaten (for binding)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for coating)
2 tablespoons butter or oil (for frying or brushing before baking)
Gravy, for serving
Salt & pepper, to taste
Cranberry sauce, optional, for serving
Instructions
Mix the Base:
In a large bowl, combine stuffing, mashed potatoes, and shredded turkey. Mix until evenly blended.Bind the Mixture:
Add one beaten egg and mix well. If it feels too crumbly, add another egg or a tablespoon of gravy.Shape into Balls:
Roll about 2 tablespoons of mixture into small balls. If sticky, lightly oil your hands.Optional Crunch:
Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs for a crispier texture.Cook to Perfection:
Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush or spray balls with oil and bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through.
Pan-Fry: Heat butter and oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry balls until golden brown on all sides, about 6–8 minutes total.
Serve:
Serve warm with hot gravy for dipping or drizzling. Optional: add cranberry sauce for a festive touch.
Notes
Make-Ahead: Shape the balls and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.
Freezer-Friendly: Freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake or air fry straight from frozen until hot.
Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking once halfway through.
Add Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a melty center.
Best Served: Fresh and warm, with plenty of gravy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ~3 balls
- Calories: 265
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg