These Turkey Stuffing Balls are a fun twist on classic stuffing! With turkey, bread crumbs, and tasty herbs, they’re packed with flavor and super easy to make.
They’re perfect as a side dish or a tasty snack. I love making extras so I can munch on them while watching my favorite show—it’s hard to resist those fluffy bites!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Turkey: Shredded turkey is essential here. If you don’t have turkey, cooked chicken works great too! You can even use leftovers from a roast. For a vegetarian option, try using cooked mushrooms or plant-based protein.
Seasoned Bread Stuffing: This is the heart of the recipe! You can use store-bought stuffing to save time, or make your own with day-old bread, herbs, and spices. If gluten-free, opt for gluten-free bread or stuffing mix.
Celery and Onion: These add flavor and crunch. If you’re not a fan of either, try using bell peppers or shallots instead. They’ll change the taste a bit but still keep it delicious!
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, sage, and thyme bring vibrant flavors. If they’re not available, use dried versions (just remember to use less). I personally love adding a bit of rosemary for more aroma.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Stuffing Balls?
The key to crispy stuffing balls lies in the frying technique. Here are some tips to achieve that golden-brown crust:
- Make sure the oil is hot before adding the balls. You can test the heat by dropping in a small piece of bread; it should sizzle.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give them space to crisp up. Cook in batches if necessary!
- Turn them gently. Use a spatula to avoid breaking them apart while cooking.
- Once golden, place them on a paper towel to cool slightly and absorb any excess oil.
Following these steps will give you that perfect crunch every time!
How to Make Turkey Stuffing Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing Balls:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or finely chopped
- 3 cups seasoned bread stuffing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried sage)
- 1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried thyme)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup chicken or turkey broth (plus more if needed)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or butter, for frying
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes for prep and around 15-20 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at about 35-40 minutes to enjoy these delicious Turkey Stuffing Balls. Perfect for a quick but satisfying dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Stuffing Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey, stuffing mix, chopped celery, chopped onion, parsley, sage, thyme, and minced garlic. Mix everything together so the flavors combine nicely.
2. Add Eggs and Broth:
Add the beaten eggs and chicken or turkey broth to the mixture. Stir until everything is moist and can hold its shape when you make balls. If your mixture feels a bit dry, you can add more broth one tablespoon at a time until it’s just right.
3. Season the Mixture:
Season the stuffing mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Don’t be shy—this helps bring out the flavors!
4. Shape the Balls:
Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter. It’s okay if they aren’t perfectly round; they will taste delicious regardless!
5. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Make sure it’s hot before adding the stuffing balls.
6. Cook the Stuffing Balls:
Carefully place the stuffing balls into the hot skillet in batches, being sure not to overcrowd them. Cook until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Remember to turn them gently so they stay intact!
7. Drain the Excess Oil:
Once the balls are crispy and cooked through, transfer them onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This step helps keep them crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Turkey Stuffing Balls warm, garnished with fresh herbs if you’d like. They make a fantastic side dish or appetizer, perfect for any gathering or holiday feast!
Enjoy every bite of these flavorful Turkey Stuffing Balls! They are sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover turkey is perfect for this recipe. Just make sure it’s finely chopped or shredded so it mixes well with the stuffing mixture.
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffing Balls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness, or in a microwave for a quick option—it may not be as crispy but will still be tasty!
Can I Make These Stuffing Balls in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the mixture ahead of time! Just keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before forming and frying the balls. When you’re ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking for even results.
What Can I Serve These Stuffing Balls With?
Turkey Stuffing Balls are versatile! Serve them with gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping. They also pair well with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete meal!