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Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

4.7 from 126 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. Prep Ingredients: Bring all ingredients—mashed potatoes, stuffing, and shredded turkey—to room temperature to ensure they combine easily and cook evenly.
  2. Warm Potatoes: If the mashed potatoes are cold or stiff, warm them slightly to soften, making mixing easier.
  3. Moisten Stuffing: If the stuffing feels dry, moisten it lightly with broth until it reaches a more pliable texture for better binding.
  4. 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.
  5. Shape Balls: Form the mixture into 12 golf ball-sized portions, compacting gently so they hold their shape.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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