Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe – Easy Holiday Appetizers

I just love these tasty Turkey Stuffing Balls! They’re a great way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers. They mix shredded turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing for a delicious treat.

These balls are perfect for any holiday event. They’re great for Friendsgiving, holiday parties, or just enjoying leftovers. You can even add a crispy panko coating for extra crunch.

Key Takeaways

• Delicious way to repurpose Thanksgiving leftovers
• Combines classic holiday flavors in a bite-sized appetizer
• Versatile recipe allows for customization, including a crispy panko coating
• Perfect for Friendsgiving, holiday parties, and enjoying Thanksgiving leftovers
• Easy to prepare with a short cook time of just 20 minutes

Why These Holiday Appetizer Balls Are a Must-Try

These appetizer stuffing balls are a hit. They mix herbed stuffing with savory turkey. They’re a fun twist on holiday food.

Perfect Solution for Thanksgiving Leftovers

Turn leftover stuffing into herbed stuffing balls. Add shredded turkey, eggs, and a bit of gravy. It’s a tasty way to use up leftovers and cut down on waste.

Versatile Party Food Option

These crispy stuffing balls are great for parties. Serve them as appetizers or a main dish. They’re easy to eat and won’t make a mess.

Make-Ahead Convenience

You can make these up to 24 hours before. Just refrigerate them and bake when you’re ready. This saves time and ensures they’re always hot and fresh.

Looking for a tasty way to use leftovers or impress guests? Try these appetizer stuffing balls. They bring new flavors to the holiday table!

Essential Ingredients for Stuffing Balls

Making tasty stuffing balls or vegetarian stuffing balls starts with the right ingredients. You need mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, and shredded turkey or a plant-based protein. This mix is the base of these delicious bites.

For the stuffing, you can use leftover homemade stuffing or a boxed mix. It’s important to mix mashed potatoes and stuffing equally. Add half the amount of turkey or plant-based protein. A bit of butter, onion, celery, and spices can make the flavors pop.

To hold the mix together, use a couple of beaten eggs. Adding bread cubes makes the stuffing balls more filling. This way, you can shape them into mini stuffing balls or vegetarian stuffing balls. Then, bake or fry them until they’re crispy.

Ingredient	Quantity
Mashed Potatoes	1 cup
Stuffing (homemade or boxed)	1 cup
Shredded Turkey or Vegetarian Protein	1/2 cup
Butter	2 tablespoons
Onion, diced	1/2 cup
Celery, diced	1/2 cup
Poultry Seasoning	1 teaspoon
Chicken or Vegetable Broth	1/4 cup
Eggs, beaten	2
Bread Cubes (for homemade stuffing)	1 cup

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a batch of mini stuffing balls or vegetarian stuffing balls. They’ll be a hit at any holiday or party.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To make these tasty gluten-free stuffing balls or baked stuffing balls, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. These tools will help you cook smoothly and successfully. Let’s explore the equipment you should have ready.

Baking Essentials

• A large skillet or sauté pan for sautéing the vegetables
• A large mixing bowl for combining all the ingredients
• A baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or coated with cooking spray
• Measuring cups and spoons for accurately portioning the ingredients

Mixing Tools

For mixing and shaping the stuffing balls, you’ll need:

• A sturdy whisk for blending the wet ingredients
• A flexible spatula or wooden spoon for gently folding in the dry ingredients

Optional Frying Equipment

If you’d like to fry the stuffing balls instead of baking them, you’ll also need:

• A non-stick skillet or pan for frying
• A food processor or grater for shredding the turkey, if using leftovers

With these essential kitchen tools ready, you’re set to make delicious gluten-free stuffing balls or baked stuffing balls. They’ll be a hit at your holiday gathering.

Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe

Looking for a tasty and easy holiday appetizer? Try these turkey stuffing balls. They mix turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes into fun bites. They’re great for parties, gatherings, or using up holiday leftovers.

The secret to these stuffing bites is their mix of textures and tastes. They have a crispy outside and a soft, savory inside. Each bite is a burst of roasted turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes flavors.

1. Begin by mixing mashed potatoes and stuffing mix in a big bowl. Add shredded turkey to make it hearty and flavorful.
2. For homemade stuffing, cook onions and celery in butter. Add seasonings, then mix with bread, broth, and eggs.
3. After mixing well, shape the mix into 2-inch balls. Make sure they’re all the same size for even cooking.
4. Bake the turkey stuffing balls at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. They should be golden brown and crispy.
5. Or, coat them in panko breadcrumbs and fry in butter and oil for a crunchier outside.

These stuffing bites will be a hit at your next event. Serve them with turkey gravy or creative dipping sauces. They’re a great way to enjoy leftover Thanksgiving food.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Making tasty thanksgiving stuffing balls and appetizer stuffing balls is easy with this guide. Follow these steps to make these holiday treats quickly.

Mixing the Base

Begin by warming leftover potatoes and stuffing. This makes them easier to mix. In a big bowl, mix equal parts potatoes, stuffing, and shredded turkey. Add a bit of black pepper if you like, and stir well.

Forming the Balls

Now, use your hands to shape the mixture into balls. Make them all the same size and press them firmly. This helps them keep their shape. Put the balls on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Cooking Methods

You can bake or fry these thanksgiving stuffing balls and appetizer stuffing balls. To bake, heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the balls for 20-25 minutes, until they’re golden and crispy.

To fry, use butter and vegetable oil. Fry the balls until they’re golden, about 3-5 minutes per batch.

Whichever method you choose, check the balls’ internal temperature. It should be 160°F (71°C) to be sure they’re cooked right.

Crispy Panko Coating Variation

I love adding a crispy twist to my classic turkey stuffing balls with a panko breadcrumb coating. This coating gives them a light, crunchy texture and a golden-brown color. It perfectly complements the soft, flavorful inside.

To make these crispy balls, I roll them in seasoned panko breadcrumbs. I press gently to help the coating stick. Then, I fry them in melted butter and grapeseed oil over medium heat, just like cooking crab cakes.

This method creates a crispy outer shell that reveals the tender, herbed stuffing balls inside. It’s a great way to make this holiday appetizer even more appealing to your guests.

Looking to use up Thanksgiving leftovers or make a tasty party snack? This crispy panko version of my turkey stuffing balls is a crowd-pleaser. The mix of textures and flavors makes it a delicious holiday treat.

Gravy and Sauce Pairing Options

When you serve your turkey stuffing balls, you’ll want the right sides. A hot, flavorful turkey gravy is a classic choice. It goes well with the savory stuffing. For homemade gravy without drippings, use turkey wings for a rich flavor.

But why stick to the usual? Try sweet-tart cranberry sauce or a cheesy sauce for a twist. These options can make your turkey stuffing balls recipe and stuffing bites even better.

Classic Turkey Gravy

Nothing says Thanksgiving like turkey gravy over your stuffing bites. You can use the bird’s drippings or make it from scratch. This classic choice is a must.

Creative Dipping Alternatives

• Cranberry Sauce: The tart-sweet tang of cranberries contrasts nicely with the savory stuffing.
• Cheese Sauce: A creamy, melty cheese sauce makes your turkey stuffing balls recipe even more indulgent.
• Spicy Aioli: A zesty, garlicky aioli adds a delightful kick to the comforting stuffing balls.

Feel free to try different dipping sauces and condiments. Find the perfect match for your holiday stuffing bites. There are endless ways to elevate your dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These baked stuffing balls are perfect for making ahead of time. You can keep uncooked mini stuffing balls in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just cover them and let them sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before baking.

For leftovers, store baked stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 5 days. To reheat, use the oven or microwave. If they’re dry, add a bit of broth to moisten them before reheating.

Reheating Method	Temperature	Time
Oven	350°F	30 minutes (covered), 10 minutes (uncovered)
Stovetop	165°F or higher	3-5 minutes, with 1-2 tablespoons of broth
Microwave	High	1 minute, stir, then 1-2 minutes more

Always check that the stuffing balls are at least 165°F before serving. With a bit of prep and these reheating tips, you can enjoy these tasty baked stuffing balls even after your holiday meal.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

This turkey stuffing balls recipe is very versatile. You can make it fit different diets or just try new tastes. It’s a great way to make your holiday meal special.

Gluten-Free Option

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread instead of regular bread. Make sure the broth and seasonings are gluten-free too. This way, you can enjoy the stuffing balls without gluten worries.

Vegetarian Version

To make a vegetarian version, leave out the turkey and use vegetable broth. You can also add sautéed mushrooms, fresh herbs, or cranberry sauce for extra flavor. It’s a tasty way to enjoy the stuffing without meat.

Ingredient	Gluten-Free Version	Vegetarian Version
Bread Cubes	Gluten-Free Bread Cubes	N/A
Turkey	N/A	Omit
Broth	Gluten-Free Broth	Vegetable Broth
Additional Ingredients	Gluten-Free Seasonings	Sautéed Mushrooms, Cranberry Sauce

Whether you choose the gluten-free stuffing balls or the vegetarian stuffing balls, they’ll be a hit at your holiday party.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

The turkey stuffing balls are perfect as an appetizer or a special part of your Thanksgiving meal. They can be a starter before dinner or the main dish with your favorite sides. These appetizer stuffing balls are easy to make and will wow your guests.

To make them look great, put the thanksgiving stuffing balls on a big platter or plate. Add fresh herbs like sage, rosemary, or parsley for color and flavor. You can also put them on toothpicks or skewers for a fun twist.

Serving Suggestion	Description
Appetizer Platter	Arrange the stuffing balls on a large platter, alongside a variety of dipping sauces like cranberry chutney, gravy, or aioli.
Thanksgiving Buffet	Serve the stuffing balls as a main course option, accompanied by roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce.
Salad Topping	Use the stuffing balls as a crunchy and flavorful topping for your favorite holiday salad, such as a mixed green salad or a roasted beet and arugula salad.

For a fun twist, serve the appetizer stuffing balls on toothpicks or skewers. This makes it easy for guests to pick up and enjoy. Try different sauces like turkey gravy, garlic aioli, or cranberry compote.

These thanksgiving stuffing balls are a hit at any holiday party. They offer a delicious mix of savory and comforting flavors in every bite!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When making my turkey stuffing balls recipe, I face a few common problems. If the mix feels too dry, adding more broth or gravy helps. On the other hand, if it’s too wet, adding more bread or stuffing mix fixes it.

Having trouble with the balls staying in shape? Try chilling the mix before shaping or adding an extra egg. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature or slightly warm. If the outside isn’t crispy enough, broil the balls for a few minutes to get that golden-brown look.

With these tips, I can tackle any issues and make delicious turkey stuffing balls. The trick is to watch the mix’s consistency and adjust as needed for perfect baked stuffing balls.

FAQ

What are Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Turkey Stuffing Balls are a tasty way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers. They mix shredded turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing into small bites. These bites capture the essence of the holiday in one delicious bite.

Why are these Holiday Appetizer Balls a must-try?

These Turkey Stuffing Balls turn Thanksgiving leftovers into a new dish. They’re great as appetizers or main courses. Plus, you can make them ahead of time, up to 24 hours before baking.

What are the essential ingredients for making Stuffing Balls?

You’ll need mashed potatoes, stuffing, shredded turkey, gravy, and black pepper. You can use leftover homemade stuffing or a boxed mix. The recipe is flexible, with equal parts of potatoes and stuffing, and half the turkey.

What kitchen equipment do I need to make these Stuffing Balls?

You’ll need a large skillet, a mixing bowl, a baking sheet, and measuring cups. For mixing, a whisk and spatula are essential. If you want to fry them, a non-stick pan is needed. A food processor helps with shredding turkey.

How do I make the Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Mix equal parts mashed potatoes and stuffing with shredded turkey. For homemade stuffing, sauté onions and celery in butter, then mix with bread, broth, and eggs. Shape into 2-inch balls and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. For a crispy exterior, coat with panko and fry in butter and oil.

How do I make the Stuffing Balls crispy?

Roll the balls in seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Press the panko to stick well. Fry in butter and grapeseed oil in a non-stick pan. This method gives a crispy outside and a soft inside.

What dipping sauces or gravies pair well with the Stuffing Balls?

Serve with hot turkey gravy for a classic taste. For homemade gravy, use turkey wings. Try cranberry sauce or cheese sauce for something different. Experiment with sauces to find your favorite.

Can I make the Stuffing Balls in advance?

You can prepare uncooked stuffing balls up to 24 hours before baking. Store them in the fridge, then let them come to room temperature before cooking. For leftovers, store in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or microwave.

What variations or substitutions can I make to the Stuffing Balls recipe?

For gluten-free, use gluten-free bread and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free. Omit the turkey for vegetarian balls and use vegetable broth. Add cheese or cranberry sauce for extra flavor. Try different stuffing types, like cornbread or herb-based, for variety.

How can I serve and present the Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Serve as appetizers at holiday parties or as a main course. Present on a platter with dipping sauces. Garnish with fresh herbs for color. Serve on toothpicks or skewers for fun. They’re great on salads or with roasted vegetables.

What are some troubleshooting tips for the Stuffing Balls?

If the mixture is too dry, add more broth or gravy. For wet mixtures, add more bread or stuffing mix. If balls fall apart, chill the mixture or add an extra egg. Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for easier shaping. For a crisper exterior, try broiling for a few minutes.

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