Delicious Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil or cooking spray. This will ensure your stuffing balls don’t stick while baking and helps them get crispy on the outside.
2. Prepare the Mixture:
   In a large bowl, combine the leftover stuffing, chopped turkey, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, melted butter, garlic powder, sage (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to hold together when shaped into balls.
3. Form the Stuffing Balls:
   With clean hands, take small portions of the stuffing mixture (about 2 tablespoons each) and roll them into balls. If you prefer a more uniform shape, you can use a cookie scoop or ice cream scoop to help portion the mixture. The balls should be about 1 ½ to 2 inches in diameter.
4. Coat the Balls (Optional):
   For an extra crispy exterior, roll each stuffing ball in breadcrumbs. This will give them a lovely golden crunch once they’re baked. If you prefer a lighter version, you can skip this step, and they’ll still turn out delicious.
5. Bake the Stuffing Balls:
   Place the formed stuffing balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a little apart so they have room to crisp up. Bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the outside is golden brown and crispy. Be sure to check halfway through and gently flip the balls for even browning.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Once the stuffing balls are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a couple of minutes. Serve them warm with a side of cranberry sauce, gravy, or a creamy dip for extra flavor.

Tips for Making the Best Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls:

• Adjust Seasonings: Depending on the type of stuffing you’re using, you may want to adjust the seasoning. Some stuffings might already be well-seasoned, so be sure to taste your mixture and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs accordingly.
• Use Different Fillings: While turkey and stuffing are the classic filling, feel free to get creative! You can add leftover vegetables (like green beans, carrots, or corn) or even a bit of cheese to the mixture for extra flavor.
• Make Them Ahead of Time: These stuffing balls can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them a convenient dish if you’re hosting a gathering or looking for an easy meal prep option.
• Freezing Option: If you have a lot of leftovers, these stuffing balls can be frozen before baking. Place the formed balls on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake them straight from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for an extra 5-10 minutes.
• Customize the Sauce: While cranberry sauce and gravy are traditional pairings for stuffing balls, you can also serve them with mustard, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Why You’ll Love Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls:

1. No Waste: These turkey stuffing balls are a great way to repurpose leftovers, reducing food waste while enjoying a new dish that feels just as exciting as the original meal.
2. Versatile: Whether you’re making them for a party, a quick snack, or a side dish to complement a larger meal, these stuffing balls are incredibly versatile and easy to serve.
3. Crispy on the Outside, Tender on the Inside: The golden, crispy exterior paired with the moist and flavorful stuffing and turkey filling creates a perfect bite every time.
4. Kid-Friendly: Kids love these bite-sized goodies, making them a great option for getting little ones involved in the kitchen or as a fun family-friendly meal.
5. Customizable: You can modify the recipe to match the flavors of your stuffing, add different fillings, or experiment with sauces and seasonings to create your own perfect turkey stuffing balls.

Conclusion:

Delicious Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are the ultimate comfort food that takes minimal effort and transforms your Thanksgiving leftovers into a flavorful, crowd-pleasing snack. Whether you’re serving them as a quick weeknight dinner or as part of a festive spread, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. So, the next time you have leftover turkey and stuffing, try this easy and delicious recipe, and enjoy a new take on your holiday favorites. Happy cooking!