Description
Delicious and comforting turkey stuffing balls made from mashed potatoes, stuffing, and shredded turkey. Perfect as a hearty appetizer or side dish, these versatile balls can be baked for a lighter option or pan-fried for a crispy exterior. Served hot with savory gravy and an optional touch of cranberry sauce, they bring a creative twist to holiday leftovers or a cozy meal any time of year.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups mashed potatoes
- 3 cups stuffing
- 1½ cups shredded turkey
- Black pepper to taste
For Serving
- Gravy for serving
- Cranberry sauce (optional)
Optional for Pan-Frying
- Panko breadcrumbs (optional)
- Butter or oil for frying (optional)
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Bring all ingredients to room temperature to ensure even mixing and cooking. Warm the mashed potatoes slightly if they are too cold, and moisten the stuffing with broth if it appears dry to achieve the perfect texture.
- Mix & Form: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes and stuffing. Fold in the shredded turkey gently to keep the mixture cohesive. Season with black pepper to taste. Then, shape the mixture into 12 golf ball-sized portions for uniform cooking.
- Choose Your Cooking Method – Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the turkey stuffing balls on a lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the balls are heated through and the exterior is lightly crispy.
- Choose Your Cooking Method – Pan-Frying: Optional: Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy crust. Heat butter or oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat. Fry the balls gently, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and hot inside.
- Serve: Transfer the turkey stuffing balls to a serving plate. Top generously with hot gravy and add cranberry sauce if desired. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
- If the stuffing is dry, adding broth helps maintain moisture and prevents dryness in the balls.
- Rolling in panko breadcrumbs is optional but adds a delightful crunch for pan-fried versions.
- These turkey stuffing balls are a perfect way to use holiday leftovers creatively.
- Serving with cranberry sauce adds a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: turkey stuffing balls, holiday leftovers, mashed potato balls, baked stuffing balls, appetizer, pan-fried turkey balls
