If there's one thing I love about a big holiday dinner, it's knowing that the leftovers can turn into something just as delicious as the original meal!
And these Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls might be one of the best ways to use them.
Imagine tender shredded turkey, flavorful leftover stuffing, a little gravy to bring everything together, and a golden, crispy exterior that gives way to a soft, savory center. They're everything you love about Thanksgiving dinner, rolled into irresistible little bites.
Even better? You don't need to spend hours preparing another meal.
If you've got leftover turkey and stuffing sitting in your refrigerator after Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Sunday dinner, this recipe is an easy and delicious way to give them a second life.
Serve them as a fun holiday appetizer, enjoy them for lunch, or pair them with vegetables and extra gravy for a cozy dinner. You can even make a batch for game day or a casual family gathering!
And the best part? You can bake them in the oven or use an air fryer for an extra-crispy finish.
Let's turn those leftovers into something everyone will want to eat again!
Why You'll Love These Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls
There are so many reasons to keep this recipe handy, especially during the holiday season.
They're Perfect for Using Leftovers
Leftover turkey and stuffing can sometimes feel repetitive after a big holiday meal. Turning them into crispy stuffing balls makes them feel like an entirely new dish.
Less waste, more flavor!
They're Crispy on the Outside and Tender Inside
The outside develops a lovely golden crust, while the middle stays soft, savory, and packed with turkey and stuffing.
Serve them with warm gravy, and you've got a combination that's hard to resist.
They're Easy to Customize
Have leftover mashed potatoes? Add a little.
Prefer a cheesy center? Mix in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan.
Want more herbs? Fresh parsley, thyme, or sage can add another layer of flavor.
This recipe is wonderfully flexible.
They're Great for Parties
These little bites are easy to serve on a platter with toothpicks and a bowl of dipping sauce.
They're especially popular for holiday gatherings because guests can enjoy all those familiar Thanksgiving flavors without needing a full plate.
You Can Bake or Air-Fry Them
No deep fryer is necessary.
The oven produces a delicious golden crust, while an air fryer can make the outside especially crisp with very little added oil.
What Do Turkey Stuffing Balls Taste Like?
Think of your favorite Thanksgiving dinner, but in bite-sized form!
The stuffing brings savory herbs, onion, and that familiar seasoned-bread flavor. The turkey adds hearty protein, while a little gravy helps keep the mixture moist and flavorful.
If you add Parmesan or cheddar, you'll get a subtle cheesy richness, too.
Once baked, the exterior becomes lightly crisp and golden, creating a lovely contrast with the tender center.
Dip one into warm turkey gravy or cranberry sauce, and the sweet, savory, and herbaceous flavors come together beautifully.
Honestly, it's hard to eat just one!
Ingredients You'll Need
This recipe uses simple ingredients, many of which you may already have after a holiday meal.
For the Turkey Stuffing Balls
2 cups leftover turkey, finely chopped or shredded
3 cups leftover stuffing, cooled
¼–½ cup turkey gravy, as needed to bind the mixture
1 large egg, lightly beaten
½ cup shredded cheddar or grated Parmesan cheese, optional
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional
¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
½ teaspoon dried sage or poultry seasoning, optional
For the Crispy Coating:
