Introduction

Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are a clever, delicious way to transform holiday leftovers into a crispy, comforting bite-sized dish. Made with cooked turkey, stuffing, and a few simple binders, these savory balls are baked or fried until golden on the outside and tender inside. They are perfect for post-holiday meals, appetizers, or easy weeknight dinners that reduce food waste while maximizing flavor.

What Are Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls?

Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are compact savory bites made by combining chopped or shredded cooked turkey with prepared stuffing and binding ingredients such as eggs or mashed potatoes. The mixture is shaped into balls and baked, pan-fried, or air-fried until crisp.

They are often served with gravy or cranberry sauce and are especially popular after Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Why This Recipe Is So Popular

Reduces food waste after holidays
Uses pantry and leftover ingredients

Easy to customize
Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
Strong seasonal search demand

Searches for leftover turkey recipes surge after major holidays, making this recipe highly relevant and timely.

Ingredients Overview

Core Ingredients

Cooked turkey (chopped or shredded)
Prepared stuffing or dressing

Eggs (for binding)

Optional Add-Ins

Mashed potatoes
Shredded cheese

Onion or scallions
Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, sage)

For Coating (Optional)

Breadcrumbs or panko

Grated Parmesan

How to Make Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine turkey, stuffing, eggs, and any optional add-ins. Mix until well combined but not overworked.

Step 2: Shape

Scoop and roll the mixture into evenly sized balls.

Step 3: Coat (Optional)

Roll balls in breadcrumbs or Parmesan for extra crispness.

Step 4: Cook

Bake, pan-fry, or air-fry until golden and heated through.

Step 5: Serve

Serve warm with gravy, cranberry sauce, or dipping sauce of choice.

Cooking Methods Explained

Oven-Baked

Best for hands-off cooking and larger batches.

Pan-Fried

Produces the crispiest exterior.

Air Fryer

Fast, crispy, and lower in oil.

Expert Tips for Best Results

Use cold leftovers for easier shaping
Do not overmix to keep texture tender
Keep balls uniform for even cooking

Chill before cooking if mixture feels loose

Popular Variations

Cheesy Turkey Stuffing Balls

Add cheddar or mozzarella for melty centers.

Cranberry Turkey Balls

Mix in chopped dried cranberries for sweet contrast.

Spicy Version

Add chili flakes or hot sauce.

Gluten-Free Version

Use gluten-free stuffing and breadcrumbs.

Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing

Make-Ahead

Form balls up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate.

Storage

Store cooked balls in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze uncooked or cooked balls for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

With leftover gravy

Alongside mashed potatoes
As a sandwich filling
On a holiday appetizer platter

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using dry stuffing without moisture
Skipping binding ingredients
Overcooking

Crowding the pan

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, cooked chicken works perfectly.

Why are my stuffing balls falling apart?
Add another egg or a bit of mashed potato.

Can these be reheated?
Yes, reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.

Nutrition Notes

Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are protein-rich and filling. Nutrition varies depending on stuffing and add-ins.

Why This Recipe Performs Well for SEO

High-intent leftover and holiday keywords

Seasonal traffic spikes
Strong engagement for waste-reducing recipes
Multiple internal linking opportunities

Conclusion

Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are a smart, comforting way to reinvent holiday leftovers into a dish everyone looks forward to. Crispy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable, they are perfect for meals, snacks, or appetizers long after the holiday table is cleared.

Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls

Author: WAFA LI

Print Recipe

Ingredients

• 3–4 cups leftover cooked turkey stuffing (moist but not soggy)
• 1 large egg (or 2 if stuffing is very dry)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for binding & flavor)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or sage
• 1–2 tbsp all-purpose flour or almond flour (only if needed for binding)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for pan-frying)
• Optional: ½ cup shredded cooked turkey, mixed in

Instructions

In a bowl, combine leftover stuffing, egg, Parmesan, herbs, and any extra turkey. Mix well. If mixture is too wet to hold shape, add flour 1 tbsp at a time until it clumps together.
Roll into 1½” balls (about golf-ball size). Place on a plate and chill 15–20 min to firm up (helps prevent crumbling).
To cook:
- Pan-fry (recommended): Heat oil in skillet over medium. Cook balls 3–4 min per side until golden and crisp.
- Bake: Place on parchment-lined sheet; spray lightly with oil. Bake at 375°F (190°C) 20–25 min, flipping halfway.
Serve warm with cranberry sauce, gravy, or a dollop of sour cream.