If you’re looking for a fun, utterly satisfying twist on classic holiday flavors, these Turkey Stuffing Balls are about to become your new favorite comfort food. Imagine everything you crave about Thanksgiving—juicy turkey, herby stuffing, a touch of buttery crispness—all wrapped up into perfectly poppable bites. They’re ideal for using up leftovers or for serving as a playful appetizer, and they never fail to impress at family gatherings or festive potlucks. Whether it’s the holiday season or you’re just craving cozy flavors, this recipe brings all the nostalgia and warmth, without the fuss of a giant bird.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Turkey Stuffing Balls are delightfully simple—every ingredient plays a starring role in flavor or texture. With a few pantry staples and fresh touches, you’ll have everything you need for this crave-worthy recipe.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps soften the veggies for extra flavor depth.
- Ground turkey: Lean yet juicy, it brings savory tenderness to each ball.
- Prepared stuffing (cooled): The heart of the recipe—choose your favorite boxed mix or homemade, just make sure it isn’t too wet.
- Onion (finely chopped): Gives each bite a pop of sweetness and texture.
- Celery (finely chopped): Adds crunch and that classic stuffing aroma.
- Egg (lightly beaten): Binds everything together for a perfect, cohesive bite.
- Garlic powder: Brings subtle warmth and depth.
- Dried sage: That signature stuffing savoriness you know and love.
- Salt: Enhances every other flavor in these savory morsels.
- Black pepper: For just the right gentle heat.
- Fresh parsley: A burst of color and freshness right at the end.
- Melted butter (for brushing): Ensures golden, irresistible tops with a touch of richness.
How to Make Turkey Stuffing Balls
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup or give it a light greasing—this will help keep your Turkey Stuffing Balls from sticking and make removal a breeze.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet over medium heat, warm up the olive oil. Toss in your chopped onion and celery and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant. This step awakens the flavors and ensures the vegetables blend seamlessly into the mixture.
Step 3: Mix It All Together
Grab a large bowl and combine the ground turkey, your prepared (and cooled) stuffing, those sautéed veggies, the beaten egg, garlic powder, dried sage, salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Gently mix until everything is just incorporated—you want the mixture to hold together, but overmixing can make the balls tough.
Step 4: Shape the Balls
Using your hands or a scoop, form the mixture into golf ball-sized portions. Place each one onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space so they bake evenly. You should get about 16 balls in total.
Step 5: Brush and Bake
Lightly brush each Turkey Stuffing Ball with melted butter. This is the secret to a beautifully golden, slightly crispy exterior! Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the balls are golden and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve Warm
Let your Turkey Stuffing Balls cool for a few minutes, then arrange them on a platter. They’re fabulous served with gravy or a dollop of tangy cranberry sauce for that quintessential holiday finish.
How to Serve Turkey Stuffing Balls
Garnishes
Sprinkle your warm Turkey Stuffing Balls with extra chopped parsley for a pop of color or even a scatter of crispy fried onions for texture. A little zest of lemon or a dusting of cracked black pepper brings an extra gourmet touch.
Side Dishes
Pair these savory bites with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh green salad to brighten up your table. They also nestle perfectly next to a big bowl of homemade gravy—spoon some over the top and watch them disappear!
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, serve Turkey Stuffing Balls on toothpicks for easy nibbling, or tuck them into slider rolls with cranberry mayo for a playful leftover sandwich. For elegant gatherings, try plating them atop a swirl of sweet potato puree. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with extra Turkey Stuffing Balls (and that’s a big if!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’ll stay moist and flavorful and are perfect for quick lunches or snacks.
Freezing
To freeze, let the balls cool completely after baking. Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their deliciousness for up to 2 months, ready for reheating whenever a craving strikes.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your Turkey Stuffing Balls in a 350°F (175°C) oven until hot, about 10 minutes from the fridge or 20 minutes from frozen. You can also use the microwave, though the exterior won’t be quite as crispy. Either way, they’ll taste just as cozy and satisfying as day one!
FAQs
Can I use leftover turkey instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Just chop your cooked turkey finely and mix it with the other ingredients. The balls may be a little looser, but they’ll still bake up wonderfully flavorful and moist.
How do I keep the Turkey Stuffing Balls from falling apart?
Make sure your stuffing isn’t overly wet and don’t skip the egg—it’s crucial for binding. Mixing just until combined, not overworking the mixture, also helps the balls hold their shape.
Can I make Turkey Stuffing Balls gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute your favorite gluten-free stuffing and double-check any seasonings or boxed mixes for hidden gluten. The results are just as delicious and accessible for all your guests.
What sauces are best with Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Classic turkey gravy or cranberry sauce are always hits, but don’t be afraid to serve them with an herby yogurt dip or even a tangy barbecue sauce for a twist. These versatile bites love to be dipped!
Can I assemble Turkey Stuffing Balls in advance?
Definitely. Prepare the mixture and shape the balls up to a day ahead, then refrigerate. When ready to bake, brush with butter and pop them straight into the oven. This makes entertaining even easier!
Final Thoughts
Turkey Stuffing Balls are the kind of dish that brings people together, turning any meal into something special and memorable. I can’t recommend them enough—give them a try, and watch them become a running request at your own gatherings!
