These Turkey Stuffing Balls are perfect for using up leftover turkey and stuffing, or as a holiday appetizer. Crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside, they’re easy to make and always a hit!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or finely chopped
- 2 cups stuffing (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup chicken or turkey broth (or as needed)
- 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for coating)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil (for baking)
Directions:
1️⃣ Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2️⃣ Mix Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine shredded turkey, stuffing, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken or turkey broth gradually, mixing until the mixture holds together but isn’t too wet.
- Stir in the beaten egg to bind the mixture.
3️⃣ Form Balls:
- Using your hands or a scoop, shape the mixture into golf ball-sized portions.
- Optional: Roll each ball in breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating.
4️⃣ Bake:
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet. Brush or drizzle them with melted butter or olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and heated through.
5️⃣ Serve:
- Serve warm with your favorite gravy, cranberry sauce, or a creamy dipping sauce.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: Prepare the balls in advance and freeze them raw. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
- Additions: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or sage for extra flavor.
- Leftovers: These work well with leftover turkey and stuffing, making them a great post-holiday snack.
Nutrition Info (Per Ball):
- Calories: ~120 kcal
- Protein: ~8g
- Carbs: ~10g
- Fat: ~5g
Enjoy these flavorful turkey stuffing balls as a festive side dish, snack, or appetizer! 🦃🍽
Q&A Section
Q1: Can I use chicken instead of turkey for this recipe?
A1: Yes, ground chicken is a great alternative to ground turkey and works just as well in this recipe. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!
Q2: What’s the best type of stuffing mix to use?
A2: You can use any boxed stuffing mix, either seasoned or unseasoned, depending on your taste preference. If you want a homemade touch, you can make your own stuffing mix with bread cubes and herbs like sage and thyme.
Q3: How do I make these ahead of time for a party?
A3: You can prepare the stuffing balls and arrange them on a baking sheet. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, bake them as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Q4: Can I freeze the turkey stuffing balls?
A4: Absolutely! After baking, let them cool completely and store in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q5: What dipping sauces pair well with these stuffing balls?
A5: Cranberry sauce is a classic pairing for a festive feel. You can also serve them with gravy, ranch dressing, or even a honey mustard dip for a savory twist.
Q6: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A6: Yes, use a gluten-free stuffing mix and ensure that any additional ingredients, like seasonings and broth, are also gluten-free.
Q7: How do I keep the stuffing balls moist?
A7: Be sure not to overbake them, as that can dry them out. Adding a touch more broth to the stuffing mixture before forming the balls can also help retain moisture.
