Hicham Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious and creative way to use up your Thanksgiving leftovers. These savory balls combine turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing, making them the perfect bite-sized treat for any occasion. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the perfect Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls. Additionally, we’ll provide variations and address frequently asked questions to ensure you achieve the best results.
Ingredients
For the Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls:
- Gravy to taste
- 1 ½ cups chopped turkey meat
- 3 cups mashed potatoes
- Panko breadcrumbs as needed
- 3 cups stuffing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped turkey meat, mashed potatoes, and stuffing. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Form the Balls
- Shape the Mixture: Using your hands, form the mixture into balls, about the size of a golf ball. If the mixture is too sticky, add some panko breadcrumbs to help bind it together.
Step 3: Coat the Balls
- Roll in Breadcrumbs: Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs to coat evenly. This will give the balls a nice crispy exterior when cooked.
Step 4: Cook the Balls
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and heated through.
Step 5: Serve
- Warm the Gravy: While the balls are baking, warm the gravy in a saucepan over low heat.
- Serve Hot: Serve the Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls hot, with gravy on the side for dipping. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes
- Binding the Mixture: If the mixture is too dry, add a bit more mashed potatoes or a splash of gravy to help bind it together.
- Crispy Exterior: For extra crispiness, you can fry the balls in a skillet with a little oil until golden brown before baking.
Variations
- Cheesy Stuffing Balls: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the mixture for a cheesy version.
- Herbed Stuffing Balls: Mix in some fresh chopped herbs like parsley, rosemary, or thyme for added flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the turkey with a plant-based meat alternative or additional vegetables like roasted carrots and peas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the stuffing balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q3: Can I freeze these stuffing balls?
A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked stuffing balls. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Q4: What can I serve with Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls?
A: These stuffing balls are great on their own with gravy, but you can also serve them with cranberry sauce, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables.
Q5: Can I use different types of stuffing?
A: Yes, you can use any type of stuffing you prefer, whether it’s homemade or store-bought.
Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious and creative way to use up your Thanksgiving leftovers. With their crispy exterior and savory filling, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Follow these simple steps and tips to create a tasty and satisfying dish that everyone will love. Serve these delightful balls with your favorite sides and enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving in a new and exciting way!
Whether you’re looking for a fun way to use up leftovers or a unique appetizer for a holiday party, these Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are an excellent choice. Enjoy the rich flavors and the ease of preparation, and feel free to experiment with different variations to make this recipe your own.
