Delicious Leftover Turkey and Stuffing Balls Recipe: Perfect for Post-Holiday Meals

Introduction:
After a hearty Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, you’re often left with an abundance of turkey and stuffing. Instead of letting those delicious leftovers sit untouched, why not transform them into something new and exciting? Turkey and stuffing balls are the perfect way to give your leftovers a second life. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and drizzled with a savory gravy. Whether you’re looking for a comforting appetizer, snack, or a creative side dish, these turkey and stuffing balls will hit the spot. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This recipe for turkey and stuffing balls is:

Quick and Easy: A simple, fun way to use leftover turkey and stuffing.
Family-Friendly: Perfect for kids and adults alike, these bites are great for meals or snacks.
Freezer-Friendly: You can make a big batch and freeze for later.

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked leftover turkey (shredded)
2 cups leftover stuffing (any type)
1 cup mashed potatoes (optional, adds moisture and flavor)
2 large eggs
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko works well for extra crispiness)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
2 green onions (chopped)
Gravy (for drizzling)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

Start by shredding your leftover turkey into small pieces. You want the turkey to be bite-sized, so it blends well with the stuffing. Then, take out your stuffing and fluff it with a fork to loosen it up, which will make it easier to form into balls.

2. Mix the Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes (if using), eggs, flour, salt, black pepper, chopped parsley, and green onions. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed. If the mixture is too dry, you can add a splash of broth or water to help bind the ingredients together.

3. Form the Balls:

Using your hands or an ice cream scoop, shape the mixture into 1- to 2-inch balls. If the mixture sticks to your hands, lightly coat your palms with water or oil. Once shaped, place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

4. Coat with Breadcrumbs:

Roll each ball in breadcrumbs to coat evenly. This will help create a crispy outer layer once cooked. If you prefer an even crispier texture, you can double-coat by dipping each ball in beaten eggs before rolling them in breadcrumbs again.

5. Cook the Balls:

There are a couple of ways you can cook your turkey and stuffing balls:

Baking Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the balls on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Frying Method: Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the balls, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.

6. Serve with Gravy:

Drizzle warm gravy over the turkey and stuffing balls for a delicious finishing touch. These are great on their own, or you can pair them with leftover cranberry sauce for a sweet and savory combo.

Pro Tips for Perfect Turkey and Stuffing Balls:

Use fresh ingredients: If your stuffing has been sitting in the fridge for more than a couple of days, it might be too dry. Revive it by adding a bit of broth or water to moisten it up before mixing.
Play with flavors: You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or sage.
Cheese lover? Add a cube of mozzarella or cheddar in the center of each ball for a cheesy surprise when you bite into them.
Make-ahead option: These turkey and stuffing balls can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to two days before baking or frying. Alternatively, freeze the uncooked balls for up to three months and cook them directly from frozen.

Health Benefits:

These turkey and stuffing balls aren’t just tasty—they also have some surprising health benefits:

High in Protein: Thanks to the turkey, these balls are packed with protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
Low in Waste: Using leftovers not only helps reduce food waste, but it also stretches your grocery budget by turning one meal into two.
Good Source of Fiber: Depending on the type of stuffing you use, these balls can be a great source of fiber, which helps with digestion.

Pairing Suggestions:

These turkey and stuffing balls are versatile and can be paired with various side dishes to create a full meal. Here are a few pairing ideas:

Roasted Vegetables: A simple side of roasted carrots, brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes will complement the richness of the turkey and stuffing balls.
Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the heartiness of the meal.
Mashed Potatoes: For an ultimate comfort food experience, serve these with mashed potatoes and extra gravy on the side.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I use a different meat for this recipe?
A: Yes! If you don’t have turkey on hand, you can substitute it with chicken, ham, or even beef. The stuffing balls will still be delicious.

Q: Can I freeze the turkey and stuffing balls?
A: Absolutely! Once the balls are formed, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container and store for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, cook directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking or frying time.

Q: What can I serve as a dipping sauce?
A: While gravy is the classic choice, you can also serve these with cranberry sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy mustard for an extra kick.

Conclusion:
Turkey and stuffing balls are the perfect way to enjoy your holiday leftovers. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just looking for a simple weeknight dinner, these crispy, flavorful bites are sure to please. Give them a try and see how they transform your post-holiday meals into something special!

Call to Action: Have you tried making leftover turkey and stuffing balls before? Share your tips or variations in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us on social media if you try this recipe!