- 2 cups leftover stuffing (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for freshness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Coating:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs for a softer crust)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or paprika for extra seasoning
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for shallow frying (or use an air fryer for a healthier option)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover stuffing, shredded turkey, cheese, beaten egg, chopped onion (if using), and parsley.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Shape the Balls
- Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- Place the shaped balls on a plate or baking sheet.
3. Coat the Balls
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten egg
- Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs (seasoned with garlic powder or paprika, if desired)
- Roll each ball first in the flour, then dip it in the beaten egg, and finally coat it evenly with the breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure the coating adheres.
4. Cook the Balls
For Pan-Frying:
- Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the balls in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy all over.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
For Air Frying:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the balls with cooking oil to help them crisp up.
- Air fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Arrange the stuffing balls on a serving platter.
- Serve warm as a standalone snack, appetizer, or meal.
- Optional: Pair with dipping sauces like cranberry sauce, gravy, ranch, or honey mustard for extra flavor.
- Enjoy every bite of these crispy, cheesy, and indulgent Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls!
- Perfect as a party appetizer, game-day snack, or creative way to use up holiday leftovers.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
- Add Mix-Ins: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, diced peppers, or herbs like thyme or sage for variety.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the balls ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. Fry or air fry just before serving.
- Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Why This Recipe Works
These Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls combine the savory goodness of turkey and stuffing with the rich creaminess of melted cheese and the crunch of a crispy breadcrumb coating into a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. The straightforward preparation ensures consistent results without requiring advanced cooking skills, while the customizable options allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste. Whether served as a standalone snack or customized with your favorite dipping sauces, these balls deliver big on taste and creativity.
Conclusion: A Dish Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something crispy and indulgent, looking for a way to simplify meal prep, or simply want to indulge in a homemade treat, these Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are sure to delight. Their bold flavors, satisfying textures, and practical preparation make them a standout recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, their adaptability means you can tailor them to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on these stuffing balls might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨
