Delicious Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls

Ingredients

1 ½ c. shredded turkey

3 c. mashed potatoes

3 c. stuffing

Gravy:

Panko

Optional: Black pepper

Instructions

Set the oven to 375 degrees. Using cooking spray, lightly grease a baking sheet.

Meanwhile, reheat the potatoes and stuffing. This will make them easier to handle.

Throw the mashed potatoes, stuffing, and turkey into a big bowl. If desired, season with black pepper. Mix well.

Shape the mixture into balls, firmly pressing each ball down to make a snowball.

Onto the prepared baking sheet, line the balls. Bake the turkey balls for about 10 to 12 minutes in the preheated oven.

Place the Turkey balls on serving plates and smother them in hot gravy.

Notes

For this recipe, there is no need for real measurement. Just mix equal parts of mashed potatoes and stuffing with half the portion of shredded turkey.

I like coating these balls in panko and frying them in a little olive oil/butter like a crab cake. You can chill these balls a bit as they are super soft before frying.

How To Make it Gluten free

Use your favorite gluten-free bread in place of stuffing, or make your own.

Gluten-free gravy or homemade.

Dry bread crumbs, crushed pretzels, or matzo meal are great gluten-free substitutes for panko.

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1 ball

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other leftovers besides turkey for this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and can be made with various leftover ingredients, such as chicken, ham, or even vegetarian options like roasted vegetables or meat substitutes for a different flavor twist.

Do I have to use store-bought gravy, or can I make my own?

You can use store-bought gravy for convenience, but making your own gravy from turkey drippings or broth can add extra flavor.

Simply heat the drippings, add flour to thicken, and season to taste with salt and pepper.

Can I prepare the stuffing balls in advance and bake them later?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing balls in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.

Bake as directed when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve as a side dish with these stuffing balls?

These stuffing balls pair well with a variety of side dishes.

Consider serving them with cranberry sauce, green beans, or a simple salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Can I freeze leftover stuffing balls for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover stuffing balls for future meals.

After baking, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

To reheat, simply bake from frozen until heated through.

Can I use different types of stuffing for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of stuffing, whether it’s traditional herb stuffing, cornbread stuffing, or any other variety.

Choose your favorite or use what you have on hand.

Is it necessary to use panko breadcrumbs as a coating?

The panko breadcrumbs are used for an extra crispy texture, but they are optional.

If you prefer a softer texture or want to make the recipe gluten-free, you can skip the panko coating altogether.

Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time for a party or gathering?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing balls in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Just make sure they are well-covered to prevent them from drying out.

What type of gravy works best with these turkey stuffing balls?

You can use any type of gravy you prefer, such as turkey gravy, chicken gravy, or even vegetarian gravy if you’re looking for a meatless option.

The choice of gravy depends on your taste and dietary preferences.

Can I add extra ingredients or seasonings to customize the flavor of the stuffing balls?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add extra ingredients like chopped herbs, grated cheese, or diced vegetables to the stuffing mixture to customize the flavor to your liking.

Experimenting with seasonings can also enhance the taste.