Name: Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups leftover turkey, shredded; 2 large eggs; 3 cups leftover stuffing; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (for serving); Olive oil spray (for baking)

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Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls: A Delicious Spin on Tradition

After the Thanksgiving feast is over, there’s nothing better than repurposing your leftover turkey and stuffing into something delightful. Imagine delicious, crunchy little spheres packed with all the flavors of your holiday favorites! This recipe for Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls provides an excellent way to use up those extras while creating a dish that’s perfect for snacks, appetizers, or even a quick weeknight meal. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a gourmet experience that makes the most of your leftovers.

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

What sets this recipe apart is not only its flavor but also its practicality. These turkey stuffing balls are quick to prepare, helping you clear out your fridge without a fuss. They’re budget-friendly, making this a great choice for anyone looking to stretch their meals further. Plus, they’re little bites of nostalgia, which can be a comforting reminder of holiday gatherings.

“These stuffing balls were a hit at our family gathering! Everyone loved the crunchiness and the dip in cranberry sauce was the cherry on top!” – Happy Home Chef

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making these delightful Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls is simple and straightforward. You’ll need to gather a few essential ingredients, mix them, shape them into balls, then bake them to perfection. By following this guide, you’ll whip up a winning dish that captures the essence of your holiday meal in a fun, snackable form.

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls:

2 cups leftover turkey, shredded
2 large eggs
3 cups leftover stuffing
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup cranberry sauce (for serving)
Olive oil spray (for baking)

Feel free to get creative with substitutions; for instance, if you’re out of Parmesan, any hard cheese works great in a pinch.

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Step-by-Step Directions

Start by gathering all your leftover turkey and stuffing, ensuring they’re at room temperature for the best results.
In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey with the leftover stuffing until you have a uniform base.
Add in the eggs, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to distribute the flavors.
Gently form the mixture into balls, approximately the size of golf balls, ensuring they’re packed compact to hold together.
Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to space them out for even cooking.
Lightly mist the formed balls with olive oil to achieve a crispy exterior.
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown.
Check for doneness by looking for a rich amber color and ensuring they’re heated through.
Serve them warm on a platter alongside cranberry sauce for dipping.

Best Way to Serve

These turkey stuffing balls are versatile! While they shine as a standalone snack, consider pairing them with a fresh green salad or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal. You can also serve them alongside assorted dipping sauces, like ranch or even a spicy aioli, to enhance the flavor experience.

Storage Tips

Once you’ve made your turkey stuffing balls, you may have leftover morsels perfect for another snack or meal. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Refrigeration: Store the cooled turkey stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: If you want to save them for later, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain that crispy texture.

Pro Chef Tips

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your turkey, stuffing, and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing.
Consistent Sizes: Keeping the balls uniform in size will help them cook evenly.
Preheat Your Oven: Be sure your oven is fully preheated. This ensures that the balls start cooking immediately.
Add Extras: Consider incorporating chopped herbs or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an extra flavor kick!

Creative Twists

Feel free to customize this recipe! Here are a few variations you might like to try:

Cheesy Delight: Mix in some cheddar cheese along with the Parmesan for a cheesier flavor.
Herbed Version: Add fresh herbs like thyme or sage for a burst of fresh flavor that pairs beautifully with turkey.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or serve with a spicy dipping sauce for those who like it hot.

Common Questions

How long does it take to make these turkey stuffing balls?

The entire process takes about 45 minutes, including prep and baking time.

Can I use turkey breast instead of leftover turkey?

Absolutely! Shredded turkey breast works wonderfully and will give a consistent flavor.

How do I adjust this recipe for a smaller crowd?

You can easily halve the ingredients if making a smaller batch. Just ensure to monitor the cooking time as smaller balls will likely bake faster!

By integrating these leftovers into your culinary repertoire, you can enjoy a delightful dish that not only minimizes waste but also brings joy to your table. Enjoy your cooking!