Leftover turkey stuffing balls are a fantastic way to transform Thanksgiving or holiday leftovers into a new and exciting dish. They combine the savory flavors of turkey and stuffing with a crispy outer layer, making them a hit for both adults and kids alike. Here’s how you can elevate this dish:
Ingredients and Preparation:
- Leftover Turkey: Use finely chopped leftover turkey meat. This can be from roasted turkey, turkey breast, or any part of the bird you have on hand.
- Leftover Stuffing: The stuffing serves as the base and provides the essential flavors and textures. If your stuffing is already well-seasoned, it will impart great taste to the balls.
- Mashed Potatoes (Optional): Adding mashed potatoes helps bind the mixture together and adds a creamy texture. It’s especially useful if your stuffing is on the drier side.
- Salt and Pepper: Season the mixture to taste with salt and pepper. This enhances the flavors of the turkey and stuffing.
- Optional: Gravy: Serve with warm gravy for dipping or drizzling over the balls. Gravy adds moisture and an extra layer of flavor.
- Optional: Breadcrumbs: Coating the balls with panko breadcrumbs before baking adds a crispy texture. It’s a great way to use up leftover breadcrumbs or to add crunch.
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped leftover turkey, leftover stuffing, and mashed potatoes (if using). Mix well until everything is evenly distributed. Adjust the consistency with more mashed potatoes if the mixture is too dry.
- Shape into Balls: Take portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about the size of golf balls. If the mixture is sticky, moisten your hands with water to prevent sticking.
- Optional: Coat with Breadcrumbs: If desired, roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs to coat evenly. This step adds a crispy outer layer when baked.
- Bake the Stuffing Balls: Arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and heated through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the stuffing balls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Optionally, serve with warm gravy on the side for dipping or drizzling.
Tips for Success:
- Texture Control: The addition of mashed potatoes helps bind the mixture and adds moisture. Adjust the amount based on the texture of your stuffing mixture.
- Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with additional seasonings or herbs to personalize the flavor profile. Garlic powder, chopped herbs like thyme or parsley, or a dash of paprika can add depth.
- Storage and Reheating: Store 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 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Creative Serving Ideas: Serve leftover turkey stuffing balls as an appetizer with a side salad, as a main dish with roasted vegetables, or even as a lunchbox treat for kids.
Variations:
- Cheese-Stuffed Balls: Add a cube of cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) in the center of each ball before rolling and baking. It creates a delightful cheesy surprise when bitten into.
- Spicy Version: Mix in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give the stuffing balls a spicy kick. Serve with a cooling dip like ranch or sour cream.
- Sweet and Savory: Drizzle the finished stuffing balls with a maple syrup glaze or sprinkle with cranberry sauce for a sweet and savory twist.:
Leftover turkey stuffing balls are not only a practical way to use up holiday leftovers but also a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a snack, appetizer, or main course, these balls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own signature version of this comforting dish. Enjoy the process of transforming leftovers into something new and delightful!
