Turkey stuffing Balls
Turkey stuffing balls are little pockets of cozy comfort made with all the flavors you love from traditional stuffing, rolled into perfect bite-sized treats. They’re usually packed with savory herbs,…
Tip: save now, cook later.Turkey stuffing balls are little pockets of cozy comfort made with all the flavors you love from traditional stuffing, rolled into perfect bite-sized treats. They’re usually packed with savory herbs, bits of turkey, and soft, seasoned bread that get crispy on the outside while staying tender inside. These are a fun twist on the usual holiday side and super easy to enjoy any time you want a warm, tasty snack.
I love making these because they’re so versatile. Sometimes I bake them, sometimes I fry them up for extra crunch, and either way they come out delicious. I find that adding a bit of onion and celery gives the stuffing balls just the right flavor punch, and tossing in some turkey pieces makes them feel hearty enough for a meal. They’re a great way to use up leftover turkey, too, which makes me feel like I’m making the most out of every bite.
My favorite way to serve turkey stuffing balls is warm with a side of cranberry sauce or a drizzle of gravy to dip them in. They’re an easy appetizer for guests or a cozy snack while watching a movie. Whenever I bring these along to holiday gatherings, they always disappear fast, which makes me smile because I know they’re just that good. If you want something simple but full of that classic holiday taste, turkey stuffing balls are definitely worth trying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Turkey: Using leftover turkey is great for saving time and adds moisture. If you don’t have turkey, cooked chicken can work well too.
Stuffing: Traditional bread-based stuffing is the base here. You can swap in gluten-free stuffing or use cornbread stuffing for a different twist.
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary, thyme, and parsley bring classic holiday flavors. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs work—just use about one-third the amount.
Dried Cranberries: These add a lovely sweet contrast. If you prefer, you can leave them out or swap with chopped apples or toasted nuts.
Eggs and Broth: Eggs bind the mixture so the balls hold their shape. Broth adds moisture to keep stuffing balls tender. Chicken or vegetable broth are good substitutes.
How Do You Make Stuffing Balls Hold Together Without Falling Apart?
The key to shaping turkey stuffing balls is the right moisture and binder balance:
- Cooked turkey adds moisture but avoid too much liquid in the mix.
- Use eggs to help bind everything together.
- Add a little broth gradually just to moisten the mixture without making it soggy.
- Mix well but don’t overwork—it helps the balls hold their shape.
- Chilling the formed balls in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before cooking firms them up and makes frying or baking easier.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining all your ingredients without spills.
- Skillet – great for sautéing onions and celery to bring out their flavor.
- Baking sheet – use a non-stick or lightly greased one to bake the balls evenly.
- Small ice cream scoop or spoon – helps you portion the stuffing balls evenly.
- Paper towels – handy for draining excess oil if you choose to fry the balls.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap turkey for cooked ground sausage to add rich, meaty flavor.
- Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for a melty surprise inside.
- Add chopped mushrooms or sautéed spinach for extra veggies and earthiness.
- Stir in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch and contrast.
How to Make Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Stuffing Balls:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, finely diced
- 4 cups stuffing (prepared from your favorite stuffing recipe or store-bought)
- ½ cup celery, finely chopped
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup chicken broth (or turkey broth)
- ½ cup dried cranberries (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or cooking spray for frying or baking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes for baking or about 10 minutes if you fry them. It’s quick to mix and shape, then you just cook until golden and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Vegetables:
First, heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking until soft—about 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for one more minute. Then, take the skillet off the heat and let the veggies cool a bit.
2. Mix The Stuffing Ball Mixture:
In a big bowl, combine the diced turkey, prepared stuffing, the sautéed veggies, parsley, rosemary, thyme, cranberries if you’re using them, eggs, and chicken broth. Mix everything well until the ingredients stick together when pressed. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Shape and Cook:
Use your hands or a small scoop to form the mixture into 1.5-inch balls. Place them on a tray. You have two options to cook them:
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Put the balls on a greased baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and heated through.
- Frying: Heat about a quarter-inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the balls in batches, turning often, until they’re browned all around and cooked inside, about 6-8 minutes. Drain on paper towels to remove extra oil.
4. Serve It Up:
Enjoy your turkey stuffing balls warm, with cranberry sauce or gravy for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top makes them look as good as they taste!
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the turkey before dicing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method by submerging it in a sealed bag in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.
Can I Make Turkey Stuffing Balls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can shape the balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just cover the tray tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying?
Yes! Baking is a great healthier option. Place the balls on a lightly greased baking sheet, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, and turn halfway for even browning.
