Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls

 

Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls: A Cozy Reinvention of Holiday Leftovers

By [Author's Name]

We all love the grand holiday feasts—the golden turkey, the creamy mashed potatoes, the savory stuffing—but sometimes, the real magic happens after the celebration. When the guests have gone home and the fridge is packed with leftovers, that’s when creativity comes alive in the kitchen.

One of my favorite ways to give new life to holiday leftovers is by making Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls. These bite-sized, crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside treats are everything you love about Thanksgiving dinner—just rolled up into one perfect, comforting bite.

They’re easy to make, kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and absolutely irresistible dipped in gravy or cranberry sauce. Whether you’re serving them as a next-day snack, a cozy lunch, or even as a fun appetizer, they always disappear fast.

🧆 Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

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Ingredients:

• 2 cups leftover stuffing

• 1 cup cooked turkey, shredded or finely chopped

• 1 egg, lightly beaten

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but delicious)

• 2–4 tbsp turkey or chicken broth (or water), as needed

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)

• 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for coating, optional)

• Cooking spray or oil, for baking/frying

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Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), or heat a skillet with a little oil if pan-frying.

2. In a large bowl, combine the leftover stuffing and chopped turkey. Mix in the egg and cheese.

3. Add broth a tablespoon at a time until the mixture holds together well when formed into a ball. You don’t want it too wet—just moist enough to shape.

4. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper if your stuffing was on the mild side.

5. Form mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball.

6. Optional: Roll each ball lightly in breadcrumbs for an extra crispy exterior.

7. Bake on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and heated through.
   – Or, pan-fry in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat until browned on all sides.
   – Or, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.

8. Serve hot with gravy, cranberry sauce, or even a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet-spicy twist.

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👩‍🍳 Tips & Variations:

• Add mashed potatoes to the mix for extra creamy centers.

• Mix in leftover veggies (like chopped green beans, carrots, or corn) to pack in more flavor and color.

• Feeling indulgent? Stuff each ball with a small cube of cheese for a melty surprise inside.

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🧊 Storage:

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze uncooked or cooked stuffing balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in oven or air fryer.

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Why You’ll Love Them:

These stuffing balls are more than just a clever way to reduce food waste—they’re comfort food, plain and simple. They’re crispy, savory, and filled with memories of yesterday’s feast. They also make a fun snack for game day or a cozy bite on a chilly afternoon.

So next time you're staring at a mountain of holiday leftovers, skip the plain reheating. Roll up your sleeves and turn them into something new—and maybe even better—with these Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls.

Your fridge (and your family) will thank you.