If you’re wondering what to do with all those Thanksgiving leftovers, look no further than these Crispy Turkey Stuffing Balls! This easy, flavorful recipe transforms leftover stuffing, mashed potatoes, and turkey into golden, crispy bites that are perfect for snacking, appetizers, or even a light meal. Whether you bake or pan-fry them, these stuffing balls will be a hit at any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Perfect for Leftovers – A creative way to repurpose holiday ingredients.
✔ Crispy on the Outside, Soft on the Inside – A golden crust with a flavorful, fluffy center.
✔ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick prep time.
✔ Great for Parties – Serve as an appetizer with gravy or cranberry sauce.
✔ Customizable – Adjust the seasonings, add cheese, or swap ingredients to fit your taste.
What Are Crispy Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Turkey stuffing balls are a delicious combination of mashed potatoes, stuffing, and shredded turkey, rolled into bite-sized portions and either baked or pan-fried for a crispy finish. They capture the essence of a Thanksgiving dinner in one convenient, handheld bite!
The key to the perfect stuffing ball lies in the balance of ingredients:
- Stuffing adds a savory, herby flavor.
- Mashed potatoes provide creaminess and help bind everything together.
- Turkey brings in that signature holiday protein.
- Panko breadcrumbs (if frying) create a crispy coating.
Ingredients for Crispy Turkey Stuffing Balls
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (room temperature)
- 3 cups stuffing (moist, not dry)
- 1½ cups shredded turkey (dark or white meat)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- ¼ cup broth or melted butter (if needed for moisture)
For a Crispy Coating (Optional, for Pan-Frying):
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil (for frying)
For Serving:
- Gravy (warm)
- Cranberry sauce (optional)
- Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme for garnish)
How to Make Crispy Turkey Stuffing Balls
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Bring all ingredients to room temperature before mixing.
- If the stuffing is too dry, add a bit of broth or melted butter.
- Warm the mashed potatoes slightly for easier mixing.
Step 2: Mix & Form the Balls
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, stuffing, and shredded turkey.
- Season with black pepper.
- Mix gently until everything is evenly combined.
- Roll the mixture into 12 golf ball-sized portions.
Step 3: Choose Your Cooking Method
For Baked Turkey Stuffing Balls:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Place the stuffing balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and lightly crispy on the outside.
For Pan-Fried Turkey Stuffing Balls (Extra Crispy!):
- Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs for added crunch.
- Heat butter or oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Cook each ball for 2-3 minutes per side, turning gently until golden brown.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
How to Serve Crispy Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Top with Warm Gravy – Drizzle or dip in turkey gravy for a comforting flavor boost.
- Pair with Cranberry Sauce – Adds a sweet and tart contrast.
- Serve as a Side Dish – Perfect alongside roasted veggies or a light salad.
- Make it a Meal – Enjoy with extra mashed potatoes and green beans.
Pro Tips for Perfect Stuffing Balls
✔ Chill Before Frying – If pan-frying, chill the stuffing balls for 15-20 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
✔ Don’t Overmix – Keep the mixture light and fluffy to avoid dense stuffing balls.
✔ Use Fresh Panko – It adds an unbeatable crispiness.
✔ Adjust Moisture as Needed – If the mixture is too dry, add a splash of broth or melted butter.
✔ Freeze for Later – Freeze uncooked balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a ziplock bag for up to 2 months.
Variations & Additions
✅ Cheesy Stuffing Balls: Mix in ½ cup shredded cheddar or parmesan for extra flavor.
✅ Bacon & Herb: Add crumbled bacon and fresh chopped parsley or thyme.
✅ Spicy Kick: Stir in ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
✅ Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare them a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake or fry just before serving.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store cooked stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free stuffing and swap panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Turkey stuffing balls are the ultimate way to enjoy Thanksgiving flavors in a fun, bite-sized form. Whether baked or fried, they’re crispy, comforting, and irresistibly delicious. Serve them with gravy, cranberry sauce, or as a snack—either way, they’ll be a crowd-pleaser!
Try them this holiday season and let us know how they turn out!
Enjoy your crispy Turkey Stuffing Balls and happy cooking!
