If you’re on the hunt for a delicious twist on your classic holiday staples, these Turkey Stuffing Balls are about to become your new best friend. Packed to the brim with all your favorite holiday flavors, but served in a fun and convenient form, these little bites are perfect for everything from a cozy family dinner to a lively holiday party platter.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Combining mashed potatoes, turkey, and stuffing in one bite-sized snack is like a Thanksgiving feast in every mouthful.
- Simple to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can whip these up in no time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These delightful Turkey Stuffing Balls can be an appetizer or a main dish, perfect for casual get-togethers or elegant affairs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these Turkey Stuffing Balls lies in the simplicity of their ingredients. You’ll find that each component has its own special role, meshing together to deliver the perfect mix of flavors and textures.
- Mashed Potatoes: Serve as the creamy base that holds everything together.
- Stuffing: Adds texture and those unmistakable holiday aromas.
- Shredded Turkey: The star of the show, providing that signature taste everyone loves.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Elevates flavor with a cheesy, nutty hint.
- Egg: Helps to bind the ingredients for beautifully formed balls.
- Bread Crumbs: Provides a crispy exterior for that satisfying crunch.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every bite.
Variations
One of the beauties of this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to get creative and adapt these Turkey Stuffing Balls based on what you have on hand or your specific taste preferences.
- Vegetarian Twist: Swap the turkey for sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne or your favorite spices to give these balls an extra zing.
How to Make Turkey Stuffing Balls
Step 1: Prep Your Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures an easy clean-up and prevents the Turkey Stuffing Balls from sticking.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your mashed potatoes, stuffing, turkey, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until the ingredients are well integrated and the mixture holds together.
Step 3: Forming and Baking
Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and arrange them on your prepared baking sheet, allowing just a touch of space between each one. Pop them in the oven for 15-20 minutes, until they’re golden and sizzling.
Pro Tips for Making Turkey Stuffing Balls
- Ingredient Balancing: Adjust the consistency with extra breadcrumbs or a splash of stock if the mixture is too wet or dry.
- Cheesy Goodness: Sneak in some extra cheese inside each ball for a delightful surprise.
- Prepping Ahead: Mix and shape the balls the day before, then simply bake them fresh when you’re ready.
How to Serve Turkey Stuffing Balls
Garnishes
Sprinkle some fresh parsley or a little extra grated Parmesan on top for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair these balls with a cranberry sauce or creamy gravy for dipping. They also go beautifully with a side of green beans or a simple fresh salad.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Turkey Stuffing Balls on a large platter with assorted dipping sauces, or place them on skewers for a fun party appetizer. A decorative wooden board can also add a rustic charm to your presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They’re wonderful as a quick lunch the next day!
Freezing
Freeze the balls before baking, laying them out in a single layer on a tray until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Reheat your Turkey Stuffing Balls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until they’re heated through. This will keep them crispy on the outside.
FAQs
-
Can I use instant potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, instant potatoes can work perfectly well for this recipe, making it even quicker to prepare. Just ensure they are seasoned to your liking before mixing with the other ingredients.
-
Can these be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply replace the regular bread crumbs with a gluten-free version and ensure your stuffing mix is also gluten-free.
-
What type of turkey is best for these balls?
Shredded turkey from either the breast or thigh works beautifully, with thigh meat adding a bit more moisture and flavor.
-
Can I make these ahead and bake them later?
Yes, you can form the balls and store them in the refrigerator overnight, baking them fresh the next day.
Final Thoughts
With their delightful combination of flavors and textures, these Turkey Stuffing Balls promise to be a hit at your table. Give them a try and watch as they quickly become a holiday staple that everyone looks forward to year after year.
Print
Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 balls
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Holiday
Description
Delicious and savory Turkey Stuffing Balls perfect for a festive appetizer or main course. Made with mashed potatoes, stuffing, shredded turkey, and Parmesan cheese, then baked until golden brown, these flavorful bites are easy to prepare and ideal for using up holiday leftovers or impressing guests.
Ingredients
For the Balls
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 2 cups stuffing
- 1 cup shredded turkey
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, stuffing, shredded turkey, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, bread crumbs, salt, and black pepper.
- Form Balls: Mix the ingredients well until thoroughly combined. Using your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the turkey stuffing balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and heated through.
- Serve: Serve the turkey stuffing balls hot with gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can mix in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
- These stuffing balls can also be made ahead and reheated in the oven just before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls (about 50g)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
