Balls Made of Leftover Turkey and Stuffing: A Delicious Post-Holiday Snack
Turning your holiday leftovers into something new and delicious is one of the most satisfying parts of post-feast creativity. Leftover turkey and stuffing balls are the perfect answer to that question, “What should we do with all these leftovers?” Crispy on the outside, savory and tender on the inside, these golden-fried bites are a crowd-pleasing snack, appetizer, or even a light meal.
Why You’ll Love These Leftover Turkey and Stuffing Balls
- Zero waste: Use up your leftover turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and even gravy.
- Quick to make: Less than 30 minutes of prep.
- Customizable: Add cheese, herbs, or even a bit of heat with hot sauce or jalapeños.
- Freezer-friendly: Make a big batch and freeze for a quick bite later.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Leftover stuffing | 3 cups |
| Cooked turkey, shredded or chopped finely | 2 cups |
| Cranberry sauce (optional) | ½ cup |
| Grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese | ½ cup |
| Turkey gravy or chicken broth | ¼ cup (as needed) |
| All-purpose flour | ½ cup |
| Large eggs, whisked | 2 |
| Seasoned breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Oil for frying (vegetable or canola) | As needed |
| Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish) | 1 tablespoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Stuffing Balls
Step 1: Make the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Stuffing
- Turkey
- Cranberry sauce (optional, for a sweet-savory touch)
- Cheese (optional, for a gooey center)
Mix thoroughly using a wooden spoon or clean hands. Gradually pour in gravy or broth a bit at a time until the mixture holds together when squeezed. You want it moist but not soggy.
Pro Tip: If your mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs or stuffing. If it’s too dry, a little extra gravy will do the trick.
Step 2: Shape into Balls
Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into golf ball-sized rounds. Be sure to press firmly to ensure they hold their shape. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Set Up a Dredging Station
Prepare three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Whisked eggs
- Bowl 3: Seasoned breadcrumbs
Coat each stuffing ball by:
- Rolling it in flour
- Dipping it in egg
- Rolling it in breadcrumbs
Press gently to help the coating stick evenly.
Step 4: Chill the Balls
Refrigerate the coated balls for 15–20 minutes. This will help them firm up and prevent them from falling apart when frying.
Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat vegetable or canola oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat (about 350°F or 175°C). Carefully add the stuffing balls in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot with:
- Leftover gravy
- Cranberry dipping sauce
- Ranch or honey mustard
These bites are sure to disappear fast at any gathering!
Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
To refrigerate: Store prepared (uncooked) balls for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Bring them to room temperature before frying.
To freeze: Place shaped and coated balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Fry from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cook time.
Creative Variations and Add-Ins
Cheesy Center
Insert a small cube of mozzarella into the center of each ball before shaping for a melty surprise.
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture.
Herb-Infused
Stir in chopped rosemary, thyme, or sage to give it that signature holiday aroma.
Stuffing Ball Sliders
Use them as the base for mini sandwiches with cranberry sauce and gravy on slider buns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through until golden and heated through.
Can I air fry them?
Absolutely. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
What if I don’t have stuffing?
You can use mashed potatoes, rice, or cooked quinoa as a base instead.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
These stuffing balls are the perfect combination of crispy exterior and soft, savory interior. They’re versatile, indulgent, and bring new life to classic holiday flavors. Perfect for parties, game day, or a creative twist on leftovers, they’re a must-try after your next big feast.