Name: Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups leftover stuffing, crumbled; 1 cup cooked turkey, diced; 0.5 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 egg, beaten; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 0.25 tsp poultry seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 0.5 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; Vegetable oil, 2 inches deep, for frying

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Introduction

Turkey stuffing balls are a creative and delicious way to transform Thanksgiving leftovers into a crispy, bite-sized snack. These golden fried balls combine savory stuffing, tender turkey, and melted cheese for a comforting appetizer or side dish.

The image shows a close-up of dumplings covered in a creamy, light beige sauce with small green herbs mixed in. The dumplings are soft and slightly golden on the outside, with one dumpling broken open to reveal a moist, textured filling of light green and white bits, likely herbs and vegetables. The dumplings sit on a white plate beside a small serving of dark red cranberry sauce or jam, adding a bright contrast. Fresh small green parsley leaves sprinkle lightly over the dumplings. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups leftover stuffing, crumbled
1 cup cooked turkey, diced
0.5 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 egg, beaten
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
0.25 tsp poultry seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
0.5 cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
2 eggs, beaten (for coating)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for coating)
Vegetable oil, 2 inches deep for frying

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the stuffing, diced turkey, shredded mozzarella, beaten egg, chopped parsley, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients cling together evenly.
Step 2: Shape the mixture into 1½-inch balls, making about 16 in total. Place the balls on a tray and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Prepare three shallow bowls—one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Dredge each chilled ball in flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it evenly with panko breadcrumbs.
Step 5: Heat vegetable oil in a heavy pot to 350°F (175°C), about 2 inches deep. Fry the balls in batches, turning once, until they are golden brown and crispy around the edges, approximately 3 minutes.
Step 6: Remove fried balls with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve warm as a tasty appetizer or snack.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch and flavor, season the panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder and paprika before coating the balls.
You can prepare the balls a day ahead of time; shape them and refrigerate until ready to coat and fry.
Use leftover cornbread stuffing for a slightly different texture and flavor.

Storage

Store leftover turkey stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. These balls can also be frozen for up to one month; thaw in the refrigerator before frying or reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows four round dumplings on a white plate, each covered with a smooth, light brown gravy with visible black pepper specks. One dumpling is cut open in the front, revealing a soft, crumbly inside with small green herbs mixed throughout. The dumplings have a slightly rough texture and a warm yellowish tone. Small green parsley leaves are sprinkled on top and around the dumplings, adding a fresh touch. To the side of the dumplings, there is a small amount of dark red sauce or jam. The background and surface where the plate is placed have a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake the turkey stuffing balls instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy. Frying will give a crunchier exterior, but baking is a healthier alternative.

What type of stuffing works best for this recipe?

Any leftover stuffing works well, whether traditional bread stuffing, cornbread-based, or a herbed variety. Just make sure it’s well crumbled to help the balls hold together nicely.