Introduction
Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious way to transform holiday leftovers into something completely new and exciting. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these savory bites are packed with comforting flavors and are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or simple meal served with gravy, cranberry sauce, or a fresh salad.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked leftover turkey, finely chopped
2 cups leftover stuffing, crumbled
2 large eggs
½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix – optional)
¼ cup milk or turkey broth
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or mixed herbs, chopped (optional)
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Oil or cooking spray for baking or frying
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) or prepare a frying pan with a little oil over medium heat.
In a large bowl, combine the chopped turkey and crumbled stuffing.
Add the eggs, milk or broth, melted butter, and cheese if using.
Mix in the onion, herbs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Stir everything well until the mixture holds together easily.
Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a walnut.
Place the balls on a greased or lined baking tray, or set aside for frying.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning once, until golden and crisp.
If frying, cook for 3–4 minutes per side until evenly browned.
Methods
Baked method gives a lighter, healthier result with a crisp exterior.
Fried method creates extra crunch and rich flavor, perfect for parties.
Air fryer method can be used at 180°C for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway.
History
Using leftovers creatively has long been part of home cooking traditions around the world. After large festive meals, families found ways to reinvent turkey and stuffing into new dishes, and stuffing balls became a popular comfort food thanks to their simplicity and satisfying taste.
Benefits
Reduces food waste by using leftovers
High in protein from turkey and eggs
Comforting and filling
Quick and budget-friendly
Customizable with herbs, cheese, or spices
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with gravy, cranberry sauce, or mustard
Add to a lunchbox with a dipping sauce
Serve alongside mashed potatoes or a green salad
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
Calories moderate depending on cooking method
Protein high from turkey
Carbohydrates from stuffing
Fats from butter, cheese, and eggs
Conclusion
Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are simple, comforting, and incredibly versatile. Whether baked, fried, or air-fried, they turn holiday leftovers into a dish everyone will love, making them a must-try recipe after any festive meal.