Turkey stuffing balls have become a treasured staple in my kitchen, especially during those cozy family dinners when everyone’s gathered around the table, eager for comfort food with a twist. Growing up in southern England, stuffing was always a sidekick to the roast, but turning it into these bite-sized delights brought back all those nostalgic flavors in a fun, shareable way. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a holiday gathering, these turkey stuffing balls balance ease and tradition perfectly, making mealtime feel warm and a little bit special.
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Why You’ll Love This Turkey stuffing Balls
What I adore about turkey stuffing balls is how they transform classic holiday flavors into a convenient, handheld treat. They’re a brilliant way to use leftover turkey and stuffing, but they’re just as delicious made fresh. I remember the first time I made these after a long shift in a restaurant kitchen, craving something homey but fuss-free—these fit the bill perfectly. Their crispy outside and tender, savory inside offer a delightful contrast, and they’re an excellent way to get kids excited about traditional flavors without the usual plate drama.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Turkey stuffing Balls
Choosing the right ingredients here is key to capturing that perfect balance of moistness and flavor. I always lean towards fresh herbs, good-quality turkey (leftovers or freshly cooked), and a stuffing that’s not too dry. If you’re making your own stuffing, adding a bit of broth keeps the balls tender without turning them mushy. When I was younger, my mum insisted on using fresh sage from the garden—those little touches make all the difference.
- 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped
- 2 cups prepared stuffing (homemade or good-quality store-bought)
- 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (optional, but adds lovely richness)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup chicken or turkey broth (adjust as needed for moisture)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage or 1 teaspoon fresh sage, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
- Vegetable oil or olive oil, for frying
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 180 per 3 balls
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
Irresistible Turkey Stuffing Balls That Steal the Holiday Show
Learn how to make delicious Turkey stuffing Balls. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
Choosing the right ingredients here is key to capturing that perfect balance of moistness and flavor. I always lean towards fresh herbs, good-quality turkey (leftovers or freshly cooked), and a stuffing that’s not too dry. If you’re making your own stuffing, adding a bit of broth keeps the balls tender without turning them mushy. When I was younger, my mum insisted on using fresh sage from the garden—those little touches make all the difference.
- 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped
- 2 cups prepared stuffing (homemade or good-quality store-bought)
- 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (optional, but adds lovely richness)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup chicken or turkey broth (adjust as needed for moisture)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage or 1 teaspoon fresh sage, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
- Vegetable oil or olive oil, for frying
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped turkey, stuffing, grated cheddar, parsley, beaten egg, broth, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated but still hold some texture.
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into golf ball-sized spheres, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Roll each ball in breadcrumbs to coat evenly, pressing lightly so the crumbs stick well.
- Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the balls in batches until golden and crisp all over, about 3-4 minutes per side. Don’t overcrowd the pan to maintain even cooking.
- Transfer the fried balls to the prepared baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This ensures they’re heated through and firm up nicely without drying out.
- Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This step helps the centers set and makes them easier to handle.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Turkey stuffing Balls
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped turkey, stuffing, grated cheddar, parsley, beaten egg, broth, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated but still hold some texture.
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into golf ball-sized spheres, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Roll each ball in breadcrumbs to coat evenly, pressing lightly so the crumbs stick well.
- Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the balls in batches until golden and crisp all over, about 3-4 minutes per side. Don’t overcrowd the pan to maintain even cooking.
- Transfer the fried balls to the prepared baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This ensures they’re heated through and firm up nicely without drying out.
- Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This step helps the centers set and makes them easier to handle.
Tips for Making the Best Turkey stuffing Balls
Getting these turkey stuffing balls just right is all about balancing moisture and texture, so they hold together without becoming dense or soggy. Here are a few lessons from my kitchen to yours:
- Use moist stuffing but not overly wet—if it feels too damp, add a bit more breadcrumbs before shaping.
- Don’t skip the frying step; it adds a beautiful crunch that baking alone can’t replicate.
- Chilling the balls for 15-20 minutes before frying helps them hold their shape better, especially if your mixture is on the wetter side.
- Fresh herbs make a huge difference—parsley, sage, and thyme bring that authentic, comforting flavor I grew up loving.
- If you want to make these ahead, freeze the shaped balls before frying, then cook straight from frozen, adding a couple extra minutes to cooking time.
With these tips, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish every time. Learn more: related recipe Learn more: Irresistible Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves That Will Steal Your Dinner Spotlight
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These turkey stuffing balls are incredibly versatile and fit beautifully into many occasions — from casual weeknight suppers to festive holiday spreads. I often serve them alongside a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or during the holidays, they’re a perfect finger food with cranberry sauce for dipping. My kids adore them with a side of ketchup, which always brings a smile, even if it’s not the traditional pairing!
- Serve with warm cranberry or apple chutney for a sweet contrast
- Pair with roasted root vegetables or a light salad
- Try alongside creamy mashed potatoes and gravy for a heartier meal
- Offer as party appetizers with a variety of dipping sauces like mustard aioli or herby yogurt dip
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends, this dish never fails to impress and invites everyone to dig in with happy hands.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy leftovers just as much as the fresh dish—something I’ve come to appreciate as a busy mom juggling family meals. These balls reheat beautifully without losing their texture when done right.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes to restore crispiness
- Alternatively, reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of oil over medium heat
- For longer storage, freeze uncooked balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months
- Cook from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to frying and baking times
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Turkey stuffing Balls?
The main ingredients for Turkey stuffing Balls include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Turkey stuffing Balls?
The total time to make Turkey stuffing Balls includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Turkey stuffing Balls ahead of time?
Yes, Turkey stuffing Balls can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Turkey stuffing Balls?
Turkey stuffing Balls pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Turkey stuffing Balls suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Turkey stuffing Balls may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Turkey stuffing balls are a joyful way to celebrate familiar flavors with a fresh spin, blending tradition and practicality in every bite. I hope you find as much comfort and fun in making them as I do sharing them with my family. Please do let me know how they turn out in your kitchen—I love hearing your stories and tweaks!
