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Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe (Crispy, Cozy & Easy!)


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  • Author: Helena
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 46 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

Scale

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)

12 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