Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

Introduction

My family absolutely loves these Turkey Stuffing Balls! It’s the perfect recipe for Thanksgiving leftovers or a quick and delicious comfort meal. The combination of mashed potatoes, stuffing, and turkey creates a hearty, flavorful bite, and the Parmesan cheese gives it a savory twist. What’s even better is that they’re simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients, and bake in under 20 minutes. My kids can’t get enough of them, and they even enjoy dipping them in gravy or cranberry sauce, making them a hit at the dinner table. If you’re looking for an easy way to repurpose holiday leftovers, these Turkey Stuffing Balls will definitely be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed potatoes
• 2 cups stuffing
• 1 cup shredded turkey
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, stuffing, shredded turkey, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, bread crumbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. Shape into Balls: Using your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place the shaped balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each ball.
4. Bake: Bake the Turkey Stuffing Balls in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
5. Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and serve warm. These Turkey Stuffing Balls are perfect with a side of gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: 290

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate based on using standard ingredients and may vary based on specific product choices.)

Preparation Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

How to Serve

Turkey Stuffing Balls are delicious on their own, but there are many ways to elevate them even further. Here are some great serving suggestions:

• Serve with a side of gravy for dipping.
• Pair with homemade cranberry sauce for a sweet and savory contrast.
• Enjoy as a side dish alongside your favorite roast vegetables or mashed potatoes.
• Serve as a main course for a quick and easy meal, especially after Thanksgiving.
• Serve as a fun appetizer at your next family gathering or potluck.

Additional Tips

1. Make the mashed potatoes creamy: For the best texture, ensure that the mashed potatoes are creamy and well-seasoned before adding them to the mixture.
2. Use leftover stuffing: This recipe is ideal for using up leftover stuffing from a holiday meal, but fresh stuffing works just as well.
3. Shape the balls evenly: For even baking, try to make the balls a uniform size.
4. Crisp them up: If you want extra crispiness, brush the balls with a little olive oil or melted butter before baking.
5. Customize the seasoning: Feel free to add additional herbs like sage or thyme to give these balls more flavor, especially if you’re using plain mashed potatoes.

Recipe Variations

• Cheese Variation: Add different types of cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda for a unique flavor twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the turkey for shredded vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach, for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to bring a little heat to the dish.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace the mashed potatoes with cauliflower mash for a lower-carb alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs if you’re catering to gluten-sensitive guests.

Serving Suggestions

• Gravy: Serve with turkey gravy or mushroom gravy for a rich and savory dip.
• Cranberry Sauce: The sweetness of cranberry sauce pairs perfectly with the savory stuffing balls, balancing the flavors.
• Side Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can provide a fresh contrast to the rich flavor of the Turkey Stuffing Balls.
• Vegetables: Pair with roasted or steamed vegetables like carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a complete meal.
• Mashed Potatoes: For a filling, comforting meal, serve with a side of mashed potatoes and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing:
If you have leftovers or want to prepare these ahead of time, Turkey Stuffing Balls freeze beautifully. After baking, allow the balls to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating:
To reheat, simply place the frozen Turkey Stuffing Balls on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but they won’t be as crispy.

Storage:
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat as desired.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use mashed sweet potatoes instead of regular mashed potatoes? Yes! Sweet potatoes will add a slightly sweeter flavor and work well in this recipe.
2. Can I make these without bread crumbs? Yes, you can use crushed crackers or even oatmeal as a substitute for bread crumbs.
3. Do I have to use Parmesan cheese? If you don’t have Parmesan, other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano will work as a substitute.
4. Can I make these without turkey? Absolutely! You can leave out the turkey or replace it with chicken or another protein.
5. Are these gluten-free? They can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free bread crumbs.
6. Can I prepare these ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the balls in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
7. Can I bake these in advance and reheat them? Yes, these can be baked ahead and reheated in the oven for about 10 minutes at 375°F.
8. How do I make these spicier? Add some chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the mix for a kick.
9. Can I use pre-cooked turkey? Yes, using leftover or pre-cooked turkey is perfect for this recipe.
10. How do I ensure the balls stay together while baking? Be sure to mix the ingredients well and form the balls tightly so they don’t fall apart.

Conclusion

Turkey Stuffing Balls are a fantastic way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers or create a quick and satisfying meal. They’re easy to make, customizable to your taste, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. With the ability to freeze them for later, these Turkey Stuffing Balls offer both convenience and great taste. Give them a try and watch them become a favorite in your household too!

Print