Home

Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls


 

Ingredients

  • 1½ cups finely chopped cooked turkey
  • 3 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes
  • 3 cups leftover stuffing (or dressing)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • ½–1 cup panko breadcrumbs, as needed
  • Gravy, for serving

Optional

  • Olive oil cooking spray
  • Extra panko for coating
  • Small cubes of cheddar or mozzarella cheese for stuffing the centers

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix until evenly combined.
  4. Test the consistency. If the mixture is too wet to roll, stir in panko breadcrumbs a few tablespoons at a time until it holds together.
  5. Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into golf ball-sized balls (about 1½ inches in diameter).
  6. For extra crunch, roll each ball in additional panko breadcrumbs and lightly spray with cooking oil.
  7. Arrange on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each ball.
  8. Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until heated through and lightly browned. For a crispier exterior, broil for the last 1–2 minutes if desired.
  9. Serve hot with warm gravy for dipping or drizzling.

Air Fryer Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (188°C).
  • Lightly spray the basket with oil.
  • Arrange the stuffing balls in a single layer.
  • Air fry for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway through if desired, until hot and crispy.

Storage

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze the baked stuffing balls on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating

  • Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
  • Air fryer: 350°F (175°C) for 4–5 minutes.
  • Microwave: 1–2 minutes (the exterior will be softer).

Tips

  • Cold leftovers hold together much better than warm ones.
  • If the mixture is too wet, add more panko breadcrumbs.
  • If it's too dry, mix in a splash of gravy, chicken broth, or one beaten egg.
  • For a cheesy surprise, wrap the mixture around a small cube of cheddar or mozzarella before baking.
  • These make excellent appetizers, snacks, or a quick meal served with cranberry sauce and gravy.

Yield: About 18–24 stuffing balls (depending on size)
Bake Time: 10–15 minutes
Oven Temperature: 375°F (190°C)