Turn your Thanksgiving leftovers into delicious, crispy turkey and stuffing balls! They’re easy to make and perfect as appetizers or snacks.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped or shredded
- 2 cups leftover stuffing
- 1/2 cup mashed potatoes (optional, for binding)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
- 1/4 cup chicken or turkey broth (if needed for moisture)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating; panko works well)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- Oil, for frying or spraying (if baking)
Instructions
- Combine the Mixture
- In a large bowl, mix the turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes (if using), shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add broth a little at a time if the mixture feels too dry. It should hold together when shaped.
- Form the Balls
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- Prepare for Coating
- Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Roll each ball in the beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Cook the Balls
- To Fry: Heat about 1 inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the balls in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- To Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- To Air Fry: Place the balls in an air fryer basket, spray lightly with oil, and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Serve
- Serve warm with gravy, cranberry sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips
- Add chopped herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor.
- Mix in a little diced cooked bacon or sausage for a smoky twist.
These crispy turkey and stuffing balls are a great way to reinvent leftovers into a crowd-pleasing dish! 🦃✨