After big family meals, we often find ourselves with leftover turkey and stuffing sitting in the fridge. Instead of reheating the same plate again and again, why not turn those leftovers into something new, crispy, and delicious? Turkey and stuffing balls are the perfect solution. They are easy to make, full of flavor, and great for lunch, dinner, or even as party snacks.
These savory little balls are golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with comforting holiday flavors. They’re also budget-friendly and help reduce food waste while giving your leftovers a second life.
Ingredients
Makes about 14–16 balls:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped or shredded
- 2 cups leftover stuffing
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup (30 g) breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup (30 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 small onion, finely minced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme or poultry seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for frying)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the mixture.
In a large bowl, combine the chopped turkey and stuffing. Use a fork to break everything up so it’s evenly mixed.
Step 2: Add the binders and flavor.
Add the egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently until everything comes together into a soft but shapeable mixture.
Step 3: Shape the balls.
Take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it between your hands to form a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
Step 4: Cook until golden.
Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the balls and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, turning gently until all sides are golden brown.
Step 5: Drain and rest.
Place the cooked balls on a paper towel-lined plate and let them rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Serving Ideas
Turkey and stuffing balls can be served in many creative ways. For a comforting dinner, serve them over mashed potatoes with warm gravy poured on top. They also work beautifully with cranberry sauce or a creamy mushroom sauce.
For a lighter option, pair them with a green salad and a simple vinaigrette. You can also serve them as appetizers with toothpicks and a dipping sauce like honey mustard, garlic aioli, or yogurt herb dip.
They’re great for meal prep too. Pack them into lunchboxes with rice, roasted veggies, or even inside wraps and sandwiches.
Why This Recipe Works
Stuffing already contains bread, herbs, and seasoning, which makes it a perfect base for binding turkey into soft, flavorful balls. The egg and breadcrumbs help everything stick together, while Parmesan adds a savory depth.
This recipe is flexible, forgiving, and easy to customize. You can add leftover vegetables, cheese, or even a bit of gravy into the mix for extra moisture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Leftover Turkey and Stuffing Balls are one of the best ways to transform holiday leftovers into something exciting and new. They’re crispy, comforting, and full of nostalgic flavor.
Instead of letting leftovers sit in the fridge, turn them into a dish that feels fresh and fun. Once you try these turkey and stuffing balls, you’ll start saving leftovers just to make them again.
Q&A – Turkey & Stuffing Balls
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway, until golden.
Q: Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Freeze them before or after cooking. Store in airtight bags for up to 2 months.
Q: What if my mixture is too dry?
Add 1–2 tablespoons of milk, broth, or gravy to moisten it.
Q: Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes. Leftover chicken works perfectly in this recipe too.