🦃 Turkey Stuffing Balls – The Ultimate Thanksgiving Leftovers Makeover

Thanksgiving is a time of abundance—overflowing plates, full bellies, and inevitably, a fridge packed with leftovers. But what if we told you those leftovers could be transformed into something new, fun, and totally crave-worthy? Enter: Turkey Stuffing Balls.

These savory, bite-sized delights combine mashed potatoes, stuffing, shredded turkey, and just the right amount of seasoning and cheese to make a snack or side dish you’ll want year-round. Crispy on the outside, fluffy and flavorful on the inside, they’re the ultimate comfort food remix.

Whether you’re looking to reinvent your holiday leftovers or whip up a crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next gathering, these golden bites are simple to make, packed with flavor, and oh-so satisfying.

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🧾 Ingredients – A Brilliant Use of Holiday Staples

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these savory stuffing balls. You likely already have most of these on hand, especially after Thanksgiving or a big roast dinner:

• 2 cups mashed potatoes
• 2 cups stuffing
• 1 cup shredded turkey
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• ¼ cup bread crumbs
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

📝 Pro tip: Use well-seasoned leftover stuffing and creamy mashed potatoes for the best texture and taste. If your leftovers are dry, add a splash of broth or a little melted butter.

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🔥 Directions – So Simple and So Good

You won’t believe how easy these are to make. Here’s the step-by-step breakdown:

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.

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2. Combine All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add:

• Mashed potatoes
• Stuffing
• Shredded turkey
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Beaten egg
• Bread crumbs
• Salt and pepper

Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should be soft but able to hold its shape when formed into balls.

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3. Shape the Mixture

Using clean hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. You should get about 20–24 balls depending on size.

Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

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4. Bake

Bake the stuffing balls in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.

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5. Serve Hot

Serve immediately while hot, alongside a dish of gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping. They’re also great with a drizzle of leftover turkey gravy or served over a bed of sautéed greens.

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🕒 Quick Recipe Recap

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: 25–30 minutes
• Yield: ~20 stuffing balls
• Skill Level: Beginner-friendly
• Dish Type: Appetizer / Side Dish / Snack

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🍽️ How to Serve Turkey Stuffing Balls

These crispy little bites are incredibly versatile. Here are a few delicious ways to serve them:

• Holiday appetizer platter with dipping sauces
• Side dish for turkey or ham dinners
• After-school snack for kids
• Party finger food or potluck favorite
• Brunch side with eggs and a dollop of cranberry chutney

🧄 Optional Add-On: Want more texture? Roll each ball in extra breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchier crust.

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🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

These balls store and reheat beautifully, making them great for meal prep or parties.

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freeze: Flash freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat straight from frozen at 375°F for about 20–25 minutes
• Reheat: In the oven or toaster oven at 350°F until heated through and crispy on the outside

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🌿 Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese Swap: Use sharp cheddar or mozzarella in place of Parmesan for a meltier center
• Add Herbs: Mix in some chopped fresh parsley, sage, or thyme for added flavor
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or finely chopped jalapeños
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the turkey and add sautéed mushrooms or cooked lentils

📝 Hosting tip: Serve with multiple sauces—gravy, honey mustard, ranch, cranberry, or even aioli—for a fun dipping board.

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💬 Reader Reviews

“These were the first leftovers to disappear from our fridge. So crispy and delicious!”
— Amanda K.

“Made them for a Friendsgiving brunch—huge hit! Served them with leftover gravy and cranberry sauce.”
— Jess M.

“Such a creative way to use up holiday food. My kids loved dipping them in ketchup!”
— Nina R.

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📌 Final Thoughts – A Golden Twist on Tradition

Turkey Stuffing Balls are a warm, comforting, and endlessly customizable way to bring new life to classic leftovers. With their golden crust, soft interior, and rich, savory flavor, they’re the kind of dish you’ll find yourself craving long after the holidays have passed.

Whether you’re looking for a creative way to use up fridge extras or planning a party snack that tastes like tradition in a bite-sized package, this easy recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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