Description
Don’t let your Thanksgiving or holiday leftovers go to waste! These Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are a clever and delicious way to transform turkey, stuffing, and seasonings into crispy, golden bites. They work beautifully as appetizers, snacks, or even a light meal when paired with cranberry sauce or gravy. Easy to prepare with pantry staples, this recipe gives your leftovers a second life while keeping all the comforting holiday flavors intact.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for:
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Families with holiday leftovers who want a creative twist beyond the usual turkey sandwiches.
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Busy home cooks searching for a quick and satisfying snack.
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Hosts and entertainers who need a crowd-pleasing appetizer for gatherings.
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Kids and picky eaters who love bite-sized, crispy foods packed with flavor.
Why It’s Great
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✅ Reduces food waste by repurposing leftovers.
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✅ Easy to prepare with flexible ingredients.
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✅ Works as both a snack or an appetizer.
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✅ Can be baked or fried depending on preference.
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✅ Crispy on the outside, soft and savory inside.
Ingredients
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2 cups leftover turkey (shredded or chopped)
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2 cups leftover stuffing
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1 egg
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½ cup shredded cheese (optional – cheddar or mozzarella)
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for coating)
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Cooking spray or oil (for baking or frying)
For serving (optional):
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½ cup cranberry sauce (dipping)
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½ cup gravy (dipping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Preheat the Oven or Oil
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If baking, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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If frying, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Step 2 – Mix Ingredients
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In a large mixing bowl, combine turkey, stuffing, egg, cheese (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
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Mix until the mixture holds together easily. If too dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of gravy.
Step 3 – Shape into Balls
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Form the mixture into balls about 1.5–2 inches wide.
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For extra crunch, roll in breadcrumbs.
Step 4 – Bake or Fry
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Baking: Arrange balls on a baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden.
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Frying: Fry balls in hot oil for 2–3 minutes per side until crispy and golden. Place on paper towels to drain.
Step 5 – Serve
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Enjoy warm with cranberry sauce or gravy for dipping.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Large mixing bowl
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Baking sheet & parchment paper (if baking)
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Frying pan & oil (if frying)
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Mixing spoon or hands for shaping
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Wire rack or paper towels (for draining fried balls)
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
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Freezer: Freeze uncooked balls on a tray, then store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake or fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQ
1. Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes! Shredded chicken works perfectly in this recipe.
2. What if my mixture won’t stick together?
Add a little gravy, extra egg, or more cheese to bind it.
3. Can I make them vegetarian?
Swap turkey with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
4. Which dipping sauce works best?
Cranberry sauce adds sweetness, while gravy gives a rich, savory kick.
Conclusion
These Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are proof that holiday leftovers can be just as exciting as the main event. Crispy on the outside and full of comforting flavor inside, they’re perfect for snacking, entertaining, or turning leftovers into something new. Whether baked or fried, served with cranberry sauce or gravy, these bite-sized delights are guaranteed to disappear fast!
