Hello, fellow food enthusiasts! Today, we’re bringing you a comforting and delicious recipe that’s perfect for those holiday leftovers: Turkey Stuffing Balls. If you’ve ever wondered what to do with leftover turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing, look no further! These Turkey Stuffing Balls combine savory flavors in a crispy, bite-sized form that’s perfect for snacks or appetizers. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to be a crowd-pleaser for all your gatherings.
Introduction: Why Turkey Stuffing Balls Are a Must-Try
The Turkey Stuffing Balls recipe has its roots in traditional comfort food, transforming classic Thanksgiving leftovers into a dish that’s easy, fun, and incredibly satisfying. This recipe captures the spirit of the holiday season, blending the flavors of mashed potatoes, turkey, and stuffing into golden-brown bites. It’s a perfect way to use up those holiday leftovers while creating a new favorite for your family. Whether you’re a fan of classic stuffing or love experimenting with leftover recipes, these Turkey Stuffing Balls are sure to become a new tradition in your home.
Ingredients for Turkey Stuffing Balls
Here’s everything you’ll need to create these savory Turkey Stuffing Balls:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes – leftover or freshly made, creamy and smooth.
- 2 cups stuffing – any variety works, but homemade stuffing adds a personal touch.
- 1 cup shredded turkey – a great way to use up leftover turkey meat.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a rich, savory flavor.
- 1 egg, beaten – helps bind the mixture together.
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs – for extra crunch and structure.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – to enhance the overall flavor.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper – for a hint of spice.
Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences. For example, you can substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free options or swap Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How to Make Turkey Stuffing Balls – Step by Step
Follow these simple steps to make Turkey Stuffing Balls that are crispy on the outside and deliciously tender on the inside:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the mashed potatoes, stuffing, shredded turkey, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, bread crumbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
Step 3: Form the Balls
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they have a little space between each one.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the Turkey Stuffing Balls are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Turkey Stuffing Balls hot with a side of gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping. Enjoy this delightful snack with friends and family!
Helpful Tips for Turkey Stuffing Balls
To ensure your Turkey Stuffing Balls turn out perfectly every time, here are some tips and tricks:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mashed potatoes and turkey will yield the best flavor, but leftovers work wonderfully too.
- Add Extra Herbs: For a burst of flavor, add a teaspoon of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the mixture.
- Adjust the Texture: If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or turkey broth. If it’s too wet, add extra bread crumbs.
Cooking Tips for the Best Turkey Stuffing Balls
Here are a few more techniques to elevate your Turkey Stuffing Balls:
- Use a Cookie Scoop: This helps create evenly-sized balls for uniform cooking.
- Air Fryer Option: For a quicker, crispy alternative, cook the Turkey Stuffing Balls in an air fryer at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.
- Double-Bread for Extra Crunch: Roll the balls in additional bread crumbs before baking for a thicker, crunchier crust.
Serving Suggestions for Turkey Stuffing Balls
Pair these delicious Turkey Stuffing Balls with some classic holiday sides to make them even more special:
- Dip with Gravy: A rich turkey or mushroom gravy is a perfect pairing.
- Cranberry Sauce: The sweet and tangy flavors of cranberry sauce complement the savory bites perfectly.
- Mashed Veggies: Serve with mashed carrots or sweet potatoes for a colorful, balanced plate.
These Turkey Stuffing Balls are versatile enough to serve as appetizers at a party or as a side dish for a cozy family dinner.
Nutritional Information for Turkey Stuffing Balls
These Turkey Stuffing Balls offer a balanced combination of protein and carbs, making them a satisfying snack. Here’s a brief overview of their nutritional benefits:
- Protein-Rich: Thanks to the shredded turkey and Parmesan cheese, each serving is a good source of protein.
- Energy Boosting: The mashed potatoes and stuffing provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
- Low in Saturated Fats: Baking instead of frying keeps these bites lower in unhealthy fats.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Vitamin A: 2%
- Vitamin C: 5%
- Calcium: 10%
- Iron: 4%
Storage and Leftovers for Turkey Stuffing Balls
To store leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to maintain their crispy texture. For longer storage, freeze the cooked balls for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F for 15 minutes or until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Turkey Stuffing Balls
Q1: Can I make these Turkey Stuffing Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the balls up to a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
Q2: What’s the best way to freeze Turkey Stuffing Balls?
After baking, let the balls cool completely. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
Q3: Can I use leftover chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and works just as well with shredded chicken.
Q4: How do I keep the Turkey Stuffing Balls from falling apart?
Ensure the mixture is well-combined and not too wet. Adding a bit more bread crumbs can help firm up the mixture if needed.
Related Recipes for Turkey Stuffing Ball Lovers
Check out these similar recipes that are sure to be a hit with Turkey Stuffing Balls fans:
Conclusion: Try These Turkey Stuffing Balls Today!
We hope this Turkey Stuffing Balls recipe inspires you to transform your holiday leftovers into a delicious new dish. With their easy preparation and irresistible flavor, these savory bites are sure to become a favorite in your home. Don’t forget to leave a comment below sharing how you customized your Turkey Stuffing Balls or any creative dips you paired with them. Enjoy every golden bite!
Happy cooking, and don’t lose this recipe!
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Holiday Turkey Stuffing Balls
Description
Hello, fellow food enthusiasts! Today, we’re bringing you a comforting and delicious recipe that’s perfect for those holiday leftovers: Turkey Stuffing Balls. If you’ve ever wondered what to do with leftover turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing, look no further! These Turkey Stuffing Balls combine savory flavors in a crispy, bite-sized form that’s perfect for snacks or appetizers. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to be a crowd-pleaser for all your gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes – leftover or freshly made, creamy and smooth.
- 2 cups stuffing – any variety works, but homemade stuffing adds a personal touch.
- 1 cup shredded turkey – a great way to use up leftover turkey meat.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a rich, savory flavor.
- 1 egg, beaten – helps bind the mixture together.
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs – for extra crunch and structure.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – to enhance the overall flavor.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper – for a hint of spice.
Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences. For example, you can substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free options or swap Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the mashed potatoes, stuffing, shredded turkey, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, bread crumbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
Step 3: Form the Balls
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they have a little space between each one.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the Turkey Stuffing Balls are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Turkey Stuffing Balls hot with a side of gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping. Enjoy this delightful snack with friends and family!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mashed potatoes and turkey will yield the best flavor, but leftovers work wonderfully too.
- Add Extra Herbs: For a burst of flavor, add a teaspoon of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the mixture.
- Adjust the Texture: If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or turkey broth. If it’s too wet, add extra bread crumbs.
