Crispy Turkey Stuffing Balls
These crispy turkey stuffing balls are the perfect way to repurpose leftover Thanksgiving stuffing and turkey into a delicious snack or side dish. With their crispy exterior and savory filling, they make a fantastic appetizer or even a light meal. Whether you enjoy them with a side of turkey gravy, cranberry sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce, these golden balls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With optional cheese for extra creaminess and a hint of fresh parsley for garnish, they offer a great balance of flavors that are sure to delight.
Ingredients
- 3 cups leftover stuffing
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup turkey gravy (or chicken broth if needed to mix)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil are best)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the leftover stuffing, shredded turkey, cranberry sauce (if using), and grated cheese (if using). Gradually add the turkey gravy or chicken broth, mixing in small amounts at a time until the mixture sticks together and can be easily shaped into balls. If it’s too dry, add more gravy; if it’s too wet, add more stuffing or breadcrumbs.
- Shape the Balls: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, shape the mixture into golf ball-sized balls. Press firmly to ensure they hold together. Place the formed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Dredging Station: Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with seasoned breadcrumbs. Roll each ball in flour, dip it into the egg mixture, and then coat it with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
- Chill the Balls: For best results, refrigerate the coated stuffing balls for 15-20 minutes. This step helps firm them up and prevents them from falling apart while frying.
- Fry the Stuffing Balls: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep pan or pot over medium heat. Once the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), add the stuffing balls in batches, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove the balls and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Alternative Baking Method: If you prefer a lighter option, bake the stuffing balls. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the balls on a greased baking sheet, and lightly spray them with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden and heated through.
- Serve: Serve the stuffing balls warm with turkey gravy, cranberry sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Storage Information
Store any leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes or reheat in the microwave. If you have extra stuffing balls, you can freeze them before frying. Simply place the formed, un-fried balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for easy storage. Fry or bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
These crispy turkey stuffing balls are a fantastic way to use up holiday leftovers while creating a savory and satisfying dish. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal, they’re sure to impress with their crispy exterior and flavorful stuffing-filled center. For an extra twist, feel free to experiment with different add-ins like mashed potatoes or diced vegetables. Enjoy these versatile bites with your favorite sauces and share them with loved ones for a delightful treat!
