🦃 Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls: The Tastiest Way to Use Up Holiday Leftovers
Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner is always a treat — but let’s be honest, figuring out what to do with all the leftovers can be a bit of a puzzle. Sure, sandwiches are fine, but what if you could turn that leftover turkey and stuffing into something totally crave-worthy?
Enter: Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls — the ultimate way to repurpose holiday leftovers into something golden, crispy, and incredibly satisfying. These bite-sized beauties are perfect for snacking, meal prepping, or serving as a fun appetizer at your next gathering.
🧆 What Are Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Turkey stuffing balls are exactly what they sound like — a delicious mixture of shredded leftover turkey, stuffing (or dressing), and a few other simple ingredients, rolled into balls and baked (or air-fried) to golden perfection.
They're crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and loaded with all the comforting holiday flavors you love — in one neat little package.
📝 Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is flexible based on what you have in your fridge!
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2 cups leftover stuffing
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1 ½ cups cooked turkey, shredded or finely chopped
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1 egg (to help bind the mixture)
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½ cup shredded cheese (optional but delicious – try cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella)
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2–3 tbsp turkey gravy or broth (just enough to moisten if the stuffing is dry)
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Salt & pepper to taste
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Optional: chopped herbs (parsley, thyme) or a bit of cranberry sauce for added flavor
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Cooking spray or oil (for baking or air frying)
👨🍳 How to Make Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or set your air fryer to 375°F.
2. Mix the ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the stuffing, turkey, egg, and cheese. Add a spoonful of gravy or broth at a time until the mixture is moist enough to hold its shape. You want it sticky, not soggy.
3. Form into balls:
Scoop and roll the mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake or air fry:
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Oven: Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
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Air fryer: Cook for 10–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
5. Serve warm with a side of leftover gravy, cranberry sauce, or a dollop of sour cream.
🧡 Why You'll Love These
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Zero waste: A smart, tasty way to use up leftovers.
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Kid-friendly: Great for little hands and picky eaters.
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Freezer-friendly: Make a big batch and freeze for future meals.
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Customizable: Add in mashed potatoes, veggies, or even stuffing mix if you’re short on leftovers.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
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Serve as a snack or appetizer with dipping sauces.
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Pair with a salad for a light lunch.
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Stack a few on a bun with cranberry mayo for a leftover sandwich twist.
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Add to a bowl with gravy and veggies for a mini Thanksgiving dinner any night of the week.
Final Thoughts
Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect example of turning yesterday’s meal into today’s comfort food. They’re quick to make, easy to reheat, and totally crowd-pleasing. Plus, they’re a great way to avoid food waste — and nobody has to know they were made from leftovers!
So next time you're staring at your post-holiday fridge, skip the same old sandwich and give these savory little bites a try. They might just become a new family tradition.
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