Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

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by Alexia

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Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

Crispy golden Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect way to transform your holiday leftovers into a delightful appetizer. This Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also versatile enough for game day or any casual gathering. With savory herbs, melted cheese, and a crisp breadcrumb coating, these bite-sized morsels are sure to be a hit!

Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious snacks in no time.
  • Flavorful Delight: The combination of turkey, stuffing, and seasonings creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
  • Versatile Usage: Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they fit seamlessly into various occasions, from parties to casual dinners.
  • Great for Leftovers: A fantastic way to utilize leftover turkey and stuffing without feeling repetitive.
  • Crispy Texture: The baked exterior gives a satisfying crunch that complements the tender filling.

Tools and Preparation

To make these tasty turkey stuffing balls, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

  • Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy combining of ingredients without mess.
  • Baking sheet: Essential for even cooking and achieving that golden-brown finish on your stuffing balls.
  • Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
Leftover

Ingredients

For the Turkey Stuffing Balls

  • 2 cups leftover turkey, shredded
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 cups leftover stuffing
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
  • Olive oil spray for baking

How to Make Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

Step 1: Gather Ingredients

Gather all leftover turkey and stuffing components, ensuring ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing.

Step 2: Combine Turkey and Stuffing

Combine shredded turkey with stuffing in a spacious mixing vessel, creating a uniform base for the appetizing morsels.

Step 3: Mix in Eggs and Seasonings

Integrate eggs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and seasoning agents into the mixture. Blend thoroughly to guarantee even distribution of flavors.

Step 4: Shape the Mixture

Gently shape the consolidated mixture into compact spheres, approximating the dimensions of a standard golf ball. Maintaining consistent size ensures uniform cooking.

Step 5: Prepare Baking Sheet

Arrange the sculpted balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them to allow proper heat circulation.

Step 6: Mist with Olive Oil

Delicately mist the spherical formations with olive oil. This promotes a crisp exterior during the roasting process.

Step 7: Bake

Position the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375F (190C). Allow the spheres to transform into golden-brown delicacies over 20-25 minutes.

Step 8: Check Doneness

Verify doneness by confirming a rich amber coloration and ensuring complete internal heating.

Step 9: Serve

Transfer the aromatic turkey stuffing spheres to a serving platter. Accompany them with tangy cranberry sauce for an optional dipping experience.

Step 10: Enjoy!

Serve immediately while maintaining optimal temperature and crispness. Enjoy your delightful leftovers reimagined!

How to Serve Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are a versatile appetizer that can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

  • Cranberry Sauce: The tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce complements the savory stuffing balls perfectly.
  • Honey Mustard: A mix of honey and mustard offers a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs well with the turkey.
  • Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch provides a cool contrast, making it a favorite for many guests.

Create a Platter

  • Cheese and Crackers: Add an assortment of cheeses and crackers for a complete appetizer spread.
  • Veggie Sticks: Fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers provide crunch and color to your platter.
  • Fruit Slices: Incorporate fresh fruits such as apples or grapes for a refreshing touch.

Serve as a Meal

  • With Salad: Toss the turkey stuffing balls in a mixed greens salad for a hearty meal option.
  • On a Sub Roll: Place them inside a toasted sub roll with lettuce and tomato for a delicious sandwich.

How to Perfect Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

To elevate your Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls, consider these helpful tips that guarantee great results every time.

  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring all components are at room temperature helps create an even mixture.
  • Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients to maintain texture; overmixing can make them tough.
  • Uniform Size Matters: Aim for consistent ball sizes to ensure even cooking throughout.
  • Experiment with Cheese Types: Try different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for varied flavors.
  • Adjust Seasonings: Taste the mixture before baking; feel free to add more spices if desired.

Best Side Dishes for Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

Pairing your Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls with the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some top choices:

  1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side dish.
  2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add both flavor and nutrition.
  3. Green Bean Almondine: Crisp green beans sautéed with almonds provide crunch and elegance.
  4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon juice complements the rich stuffing balls well.
  5. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances the flavors of the stuffing balls nicely.
  6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful contrast to the savory turkey stuffing balls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your cooking experience smoother and your dish even more delicious. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

  • Overmixing the ingredients: This can lead to dense stuffing balls. Mix until just combined to maintain a light texture.
  • Neglecting to preheat the oven: If you skip this step, your turkey stuffing balls may cook unevenly. Always preheat for consistent heat distribution.
  • Using cold ingredients: Cold turkey or eggs can affect the texture. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
  • Skipping the olive oil spray: Not misting the balls can result in a chewy texture instead of a crispy exterior. A light spray promotes browning and crunchiness.
  • Ignoring size consistency: If the balls vary in size, they will cook unevenly. Aim for uniformity, like golf ball-sized portions.
Leftover

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftover turkey stuffing balls in an airtight container.
  • They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

  • Place cooled stuffing balls in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze.
  • Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
  • They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

  • Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Heat in bursts of 30 seconds on medium power until warm, but this may affect crispness.
  • Stovetop: Sauté in a non-stick pan over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning frequently for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe:

Can I use other meats besides turkey?

Yes! You can substitute shredded chicken or beef if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I customize the flavor of my turkey stuffing balls?

Feel free to add herbs, spices, or even cheese variations based on your taste preferences.

How can I make these stuffing balls gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and stuffing mixes to accommodate dietary needs.

What is the best way to serve leftover turkey stuffing balls?

Serve them warm with cranberry sauce as a dipping option for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe is an excellent way to transform holiday leftovers into a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors with various herbs or cheeses, making them suitable for any gathering. Try these flavorful bites today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe


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  • Author: Alexia
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 servings (48 balls) 1x

Description

Transform your holiday leftovers into a delightful appetizer with this Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe. These crispy, golden-brown bites are packed with savory turkey, flavorful stuffing, and aromatic herbs, making them perfect for any gathering. Easy to prepare and versatile, they can be served as a snack during game day or as a sophisticated starter at family dinners. Pair them with tangy cranberry sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Whether you’re utilizing leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or a casual dinner, these stuffing balls will surely impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.


Ingredients

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  • 2 cups shredded leftover turkey
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 cups leftover stuffing
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil spray

Instructions

  1. Gather all ingredients at room temperature.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded turkey and stuffing until well blended.
  3. Add eggs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; mix until combined.
  4. Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized spheres.
  5. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between each ball.
  6. Mist lightly with olive oil spray for crispiness.
  7. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Serve warm with cranberry sauce or your choice of dipping sauce.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 balls (120g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 160mg

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