Introduction
Transform your holiday leftovers into a delicious and satisfying dish with these turkey and stuffing balls. Perfect for using up that extra stuffing and turkey, this recipe is easy to follow and results in crispy bites of flavor that everyone will love. Whether you’re enjoying these as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal, they are sure to please the crowd.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 cups cooked stuffing (leftover or freshly made)
– 1½ cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
– 1 egg
– ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
– ¼ cup chicken broth or turkey gravy
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
– Olive oil spray or melted butter (for brushing or spraying before baking)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20–25 minutes
Total Time
35–40 minutes
Yield
About 12-15 stuffing balls
Enjoy creating this scrumptious dish that makes the most of your Thanksgiving or holiday meal leftovers. Perfect for a tasty snack or a hearty appetizer!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat & Prepare:
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Mix Ingredients:
– In a large bowl, combine the cooked stuffing, shredded turkey, egg, shredded cheddar cheese, chicken broth (or turkey gravy), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley (if using).
– Mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together.
– If the mixture is too dry, add a bit more broth; if too wet, add breadcrumbs to achieve the desired consistency.
Form Balls:
– Scoop approximately 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls.
– Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Bake:
– Lightly spray the balls with olive oil or brush with melted butter to enhance crispiness.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the exterior is golden brown and the centers are heated through.
– For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Serve:
– Allow the stuffing balls to cool for a few minutes before serving.
– Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce, such as cranberry sauce or gravy.
Notes
Ingredient Adjustments:
– Feel free to customize the cheese or add additional spices based on your preference.
Storage Instructions:
– Leftover stuffing balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
– Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. If using the oven, place them on a baking sheet to maintain crispiness.
Serving Suggestions:
– These stuffing balls pair well with cranberry sauce, gravy, or even a spicy dipping sauce for a flavor twist.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheating the oven is crucial for achieving even cooking. Set the temperature to 375°F (190°C) to ensure your stuffing balls bake properly.
Mixing Ingredients
Thoroughly combine all ingredients in a large bowl until the mixture can hold together. Adjust the consistency with broth or breadcrumbs as needed.
Forming Balls
Scoop the mixture using approximately 2 tablespoons and roll it into balls. Ensure they are evenly shaped to promote uniform cooking.
Baking for Crispiness
Spray or brush the formed balls with olive oil or melted butter before baking to enhance their crispiness. Monitor closely when broiling to avoid burning.
Cooling Before Serving
Allow the stuffing balls to cool for a few minutes after removing them from the oven to set, making them easier to handle when serving.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavors.
What can I do if my mixture is too dry?
Add more chicken broth or turkey gravy to moisten the mixture until it reaches the desired consistency.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and shape the balls in advance, then refrigerate them until you are ready to bake.
What dipping sauces pair well with stuffing balls?
Cranberry sauce and turkey gravy are popular choices, but you could also try BBQ sauce or ranch dressing.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
These delicious stuffing balls are a perfect way to utilize leftover turkey and stuffing, making for a quick and satisfying meal or appetizer. Baked to a golden crisp, they encapsulate the flavors of Thanksgiving in each bite. Serve them warm alongside your favorite dipping sauces to elevate their taste.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Stuffing Casserole
Combine cooked stuffing, turkey, vegetables, and cheese in a baking dish. Add a layer of gravy on top and bake until bubbly.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Use the stuffing mixture to fill halved bell peppers. Top with extra cheese and bake until the peppers are tender.
Turkey and Stuffing Frittata
Whisk eggs with leftover stuffing and turkey. Pour into a skillet and cook until set for a hearty breakfast dish.
Stuffed Mushrooms
Fill mushroom caps with the stuffing mixture and top with breadcrumbs and cheese. Bake until the mushrooms are tender and the topping is golden.
Stuffing Waffles
Mix stuffing with eggs and pour into a waffle iron to create savory stuffing waffles. Serve with gravy or syrup for a creative brunch option.
Creamy Stuffing Soup
Blend the stuffing with chicken broth, cream, and any leftover turkey for a comforting soup. Garnish with parsley before serving.
