Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Introduction
Turkey stuffing balls are a delightful way to enjoy classic holiday flavors in a fun, bite-sized form. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these savory balls make a perfect appetizer or side dish for any turkey dinner.
Ingredients
- 3 cups mashed potatoes
- 3 cups stuffing
- 1½ cups shredded turkey
- Gravy for serving
- Black pepper to taste
- Panko breadcrumbs (optional)
- Butter or oil for frying (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring all ingredients to room temperature; warm the mashed potatoes slightly if needed to make mixing easier.
- Step 2: If the stuffing is dry, moisten it with broth before proceeding.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes and stuffing until well mixed.
- Step 4: Fold in the shredded turkey, then season with black pepper to taste.
- Step 5: Form the mixture into 12 golf ball-sized portions.
- Step 6: Choose your cooking method:
- Baked version: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Place the balls on a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until hot and crispy.
- Pan-fried version: Roll the balls in panko breadcrumbs. Heat butter or oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat. Fry the balls until golden brown, turning gently to cook evenly.
- Step 7: Serve immediately, topped with hot gravy and cranberry sauce if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, chill the formed balls in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Substitute leftover turkey with cooked chicken if preferred.
- Add chopped herbs like parsley or sage for added freshness and flavor.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them for a gluten-free option.
Storage
Store cooked turkey stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or until warmed through to keep them crispy. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make them soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make turkey stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can form the balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes preparation easier for busy meal days.
Can I freeze turkey stuffing balls?
Turkey stuffing balls freeze well. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.
PrintTurkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
These Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful holiday-inspired appetizer or side dish combining creamy mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, and shredded turkey. Perfectly baked or pan-fried to golden perfection and served with rich gravy, they make a comforting and flavorful treat that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups mashed potatoes
- 3 cups stuffing
- 1½ cups shredded turkey
- Black pepper, to taste
For Serving
- Gravy, for serving
- Cranberry sauce, optional
Optional for Pan-Fried Version
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Butter or oil, for frying
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Bring all ingredients—mashed potatoes, stuffing, and shredded turkey—to room temperature to ensure they combine easily and cook evenly.
- Warm Potatoes: If the mashed potatoes are cold or stiff, warm them slightly to soften, making mixing easier.
- Moisten Stuffing: If the stuffing feels dry, moisten it lightly with broth until it reaches a more pliable texture for better binding.
- Mix & Form: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes and stuffing thoroughly. Next, gently fold in the shredded turkey, then season with black pepper as needed.
- Shape Balls: Form the mixture into 12 golf ball-sized portions, compacting gently so they hold their shape.
- Choose Your Cooking Method (Baked): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the balls on a lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until hot throughout and the exterior is crispy.
- Choose Your Cooking Method (Pan-Fried): For a crispier exterior, roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs. Heat butter or oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat. Fry the balls, turning gently, until they are golden brown and heated through, approximately 3-5 minutes per side.
- Serve: Top the hot turkey stuffing balls with warm gravy. Optionally, add a side of cranberry sauce for a classic holiday touch. Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Moistening the stuffing with broth helps bind the mixture better and prevents dry balls.
- Both baking and pan-frying are great options; pan-frying offers extra crispiness, while baking is lighter.
- Using panko breadcrumbs in pan-frying adds a delicious crunchy coating.
- Ensure the turkey is shredded finely to incorporate well into the mixture.
- These can be made ahead and reheated; if baking, increase heat slightly and adjust time for reheating.
Keywords: turkey stuffing balls, holiday appetizer, mashed potatoes, stuffing, shredded turkey, baked stuffing balls, pan-fried stuffing balls, leftover turkey recipe
