Sure, here’s a fun and delicious way to repurpose leftover turkey and stuffing into a new dish! These turkey and stuffing balls are a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of your holiday meal in a creative, bite-sized form. Whether you’re looking for a snack or a hearty appetizer, these little bites are sure to be a hit. Plus, they’re simple to make and can be fried, baked, or even air-fried for a quick and easy treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover stuffing (make sure it’s moist but not soggy)
- 2 cups cooked turkey (shredded or chopped)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1 egg (for binding)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for binding)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or sage (optional)
- Olive oil or butter for frying (if pan-frying)
Directions:
- Prepare the Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine your leftover stuffing and shredded turkey.
- Add the egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic powder, thyme (or sage), salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything together until fully combined. If the mixture feels too dry, you can add a little bit of chicken broth or a splash of milk to bring it together. If it’s too wet, add more breadcrumbs.
- Form the Balls:
- Roll the mixture into 1–1.5-inch balls, pressing gently to ensure they hold together.
- Cooking Methods:
- Pan-fry: Heat some olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the turkey stuffing balls and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the balls on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy on the outside.
- Air fry: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the balls in the basket in a single layer and air fry for about 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve these turkey and stuffing balls with your favorite dipping sauce (cranberry sauce, gravy, or a simple ranch works great) and enjoy the tasty leftovers in a fun new way!
These turkey and stuffing balls are versatile, so feel free to mix in any leftover vegetables, mashed potatoes, or other holiday side dishes you might have. They’re perfect for parties, snacks, or even a cozy dinner!
