Turkey Stuffing Balls Delight

This hearty turkey stuffing balls recipe transforms holiday leftovers into a delicious new meal that takes just minutes to prepare. The combination of crispy exterior and savory interior creates the perfect comfort food that gives your Thanksgiving remnants a tasty second life.

I created these during a post-Thanksgiving weekend when my family was tired of eating the same leftovers repeatedly. The transformation was so successful that my children now look forward to these balls even more than the original holiday meal!

Ingredients

• Mashed potatoes: 3 cups provides the binding and creamy texture that holds everything together
• Stuffing: 3 cups brings all the holiday flavors and adds texture to your balls
• Shredded turkey: 1½ cups adds protein and that classic savory flavor we all love
• Gravy for serving: creates the perfect finishing touch and adds moisture
• Black pepper to taste: balances the flavors and adds a slight kick
• Panko breadcrumbs: optional but creates an extra crispy exterior when frying
• Butter and oil for frying: needed only if using the panko method for extra crispiness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Heat your oven to 375°F and prepare a baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking. A properly heated oven ensures even cooking and helps develop a nice golden exterior.

Warm Ingredients:

Gently warm the potatoes and stuffing until they become pliable and easy to work with. Cold ingredients won't mix well and can result in balls that fall apart during cooking.

Combine Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the mashed potatoes, stuffing, and shredded turkey. Mix until everything is well incorporated but avoid overmixing which can make the mixture too dense.

Season Mixture:

Add freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. The existing ingredients likely already have salt from the holiday meal so additional salt may not be necessary.

Form Balls:

Using your hands, form the mixture into firm balls approximately the size of golf balls. Pack them tightly just like making snowballs to ensure they hold their shape during baking.

Arrange For Baking:

Place the formed balls on your prepared baking sheet with a little space between each to allow for even heat circulation and proper browning on all sides.

Bake Until Golden:

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the exterior becomes golden brown and slightly crispy while the interior remains warm and moist. The balls should be heated through completely.

Serve With Gravy:

Top the hot stuffing balls with warmed gravy just before serving for the perfect finishing touch that brings all the flavors together in each bite.

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The stuffing is truly what makes this recipe special. In my family, we make a cornbread stuffing with sausage and sage that transforms these balls into something extraordinary. I remember the first time I served these at a potluck, everyone thought they were a traditional family recipe rather than a clever way to use up leftovers!

Alternative Cooking Methods

When looking for extra crispiness, try the panko method for these turkey balls. Simply roll each formed ball in panko breadcrumbs and shallow fry in a combination of butter and oil until golden brown on all sides. This creates an irresistible crunchy exterior while maintaining the moist savory interior. The contrast in textures makes this version particularly appealing for those who enjoy more textural interest in their food.

Storage and Reheating

These turkey stuffing balls store exceptionally well. After cooling completely, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag where they'll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, place refrigerated balls in a 350°F oven for 8 minutes or frozen balls for 15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwave reheating if possible as it can make them soggy rather than maintaining their delightful texture.

Serving Suggestions

While these balls shine with traditional gravy, consider experimenting with different sauces to create entirely new meals. A cranberry sauce adds a sweet tangy contrast, while a mushroom cream sauce creates a more elegant presentation. For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. They also make excellent appetizers when made smaller and served with toothpicks and a dipping sauce. The versatility of these turkey stuffing balls makes them perfect for everything from casual family dinners to holiday gatherings.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I keep the balls firm while forming?

If the mixture feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before forming the balls.

→ Can I fry instead of baking?

Yes, coat the balls with panko breadcrumbs and fry in a mix of butter and oil for a crispier texture.

→ What substitutions can I make?

You can use sweet potatoes instead of regular mashed potatoes, or add herbs like parsley or sage for extra flavor.

→ How do I prepare the gravy topping?

Use store-bought gravy or make your own by combining roux with turkey stock, adding salt and pepper to taste.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the mixture and form into balls. Store them in the fridge or freezer and bake/fry when ready to serve.