Turkey Stuffing Balls

Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful twist on classic holiday stuffing, turning a beloved side dish into bite-sized, handheld portions. These savory balls combine the rich flavors of seasoned breadcrumbs, sautéed vegetables, and ground turkey into a crispy, golden appetizer or entrée that’s perfect for any occasion.

This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving all year round. Whether served as a party appetizer, a comforting weeknight dinner, or part of a holiday spread, Turkey Stuffing Balls are sure to impress. Pair them with cranberry sauce or a creamy gravy for dipping to elevate the dish to new heights.

Not only are these stuffing balls flavorful, but they’re also versatile. They can be baked or air-fried for a healthier option, made ahead of time for convenience, and easily customized with your favorite stuffing mix-ins.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect for Leftovers: A creative and delicious way to repurpose leftover turkey or stuffing after the holidays.

Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or family dinners, these bite-sized portions are easy to serve and always a hit.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when ready, making them great for busy schedules.

Customizable: Add dried cranberries, nuts, or your favorite herbs to make them your own.

Comfort Food: With their warm, savory flavors, Turkey Stuffing Balls bring cozy holiday vibes to any meal.

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 stuffing balls
Serving Size: 2 balls

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 3 cups seasoned stuffing mix
• 1/2 cup chicken or turkey broth
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Dipping:

• Cranberry sauce
• Turkey gravy

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onion and celery.
2. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, stuffing mix, sautéed vegetables, melted butter, chicken broth, eggs, garlic powder, sage, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix until just combined. If the mixture feels too dry, add a tablespoon of broth at a time until it holds together.

Step 3: Form the Balls

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Use a cookie scoop or your hands to shape the mixture into golf ball-sized portions, about 2 inches in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on the baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake the stuffing balls in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
2. For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer the stuffing balls to a serving platter.
2. Serve warm with cranberry sauce, gravy, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Ingredient Background

Ground Turkey

Ground turkey is a lean protein that absorbs the savory flavors of the seasonings and stuffing mix, making it the perfect base for these stuffing balls.

Seasoned Stuffing Mix

This mix provides the classic holiday stuffing flavor, complete with breadcrumbs and herbs. Choose your favorite brand or make your own for added customization.

Sage and Thyme

These traditional herbs enhance the dish with warm, earthy notes that evoke the comforting essence of Thanksgiving.

Cranberry Sauce

A sweet-tart condiment that perfectly balances the savory richness of the stuffing balls, cranberry sauce adds a festive touch to the dish.

Technique Tips

Don’t Overmix: Combine the ingredients gently to avoid a dense texture. Mix just until everything is evenly incorporated.

Uniform Sizes: Use a cookie scoop to ensure evenly sized balls, which cook at the same rate and look more professional.

Prevent Sticking: Lightly grease your hands or scoop to make shaping the balls easier and prevent the mixture from sticking.

Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the stuffing balls reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Mini Muffin Tins: Press the mixture into mini muffin tins for individual servings with perfectly crisp edges.

Stuffed Peppers: Use the mixture to fill halved bell peppers and bake for a colorful twist.

Casserole Style: Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake as a casserole for a crowd-friendly presentation.

On Skewers: Shape smaller balls and serve them on skewers for an elegant appetizer.

Additional Tips for Success

Keep Moisture Balanced: The mixture should hold its shape but not be too wet or too dry. Add broth or stuffing mix as needed to adjust the consistency.

Make Ahead: Prepare the mixture and shape the balls in advance. Refrigerate them covered for up to 24 hours before baking.

Double the Recipe: For larger gatherings, this recipe can easily be doubled. Use multiple baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.

Recipe Variations

Cranberry Addition: Mix dried cranberries into the stuffing mixture for bursts of sweetness.

Cheesy Stuffing Balls: Add shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese to the mixture for a gooey, savory twist.

Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.

Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground turkey with mashed chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable broth to make the dish meat-free.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration: 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 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Freezing: Freeze the uncooked stuffing balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes.

Reheating Tip: Add a small dish of water to the oven while reheating to prevent the stuffing balls from drying out.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Lean Turkey: Opt for lean ground turkey with 93% or 99% lean content to significantly reduce fat while still retaining a moist and flavorful texture. Lean turkey is also an excellent source of protein, making these stuffing balls a more nutritious option.

Whole Grain Stuffing Mix: Swap traditional stuffing mix with a whole grain version to incorporate more fiber and complex carbohydrates into the dish. This small change not only adds nutritional benefits but also enhances the texture and flavor with a heartier bite.

Reduce Butter: Replace half the butter in the recipe with olive oil to lower saturated fat content while still achieving a rich and satisfying flavor. Olive oil also introduces healthy monounsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health.

Add Veggies: Boost the nutritional profile of these stuffing balls by adding finely chopped vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or spinach. These additions not only enhance the dish with extra vitamins and minerals but also contribute moisture and a subtle sweetness to balance the savory flavors.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Holiday Appetizer: Place the stuffing balls on a festive serving tray with small bowls of cranberry sauce and turkey gravy for dipping. Garnish with sprigs of rosemary or thyme for a seasonal touch that elevates the presentation.

Family Dinner: For a comforting and well-rounded meal, serve the stuffing balls alongside creamy mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, and a drizzle of gravy. Add a fresh salad to lighten the plate while balancing the rich flavors.

Potluck Contribution: Bring these stuffing balls to your next potluck in a slow cooker set to “warm.” Not only do they stay perfectly warm, but their portable size makes them easy for guests to grab and enjoy. Include a small ladle for the accompanying sauces to keep things tidy.

Game Day Snack: Serve the stuffing balls alongside classic game-day favorites like sliders, chicken wings, and nachos. Pair them with tangy barbecue sauce or a spicy chipotle aioli for a flavorful twist that matches the casual vibe.

Special Equipment

Cookie Scoop: A medium-sized cookie scoop ensures consistent, evenly portioned stuffing balls that cook at the same rate, yielding a professional and polished appearance. It also makes the shaping process quicker and easier.

Baking Sheet: A rimmed baking sheet is essential to catch any juices that may leak out during baking, keeping your oven clean. The rim also prevents the balls from rolling around, ensuring they stay in place for even cooking.

Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents the stuffing balls from sticking to the pan, making cleanup effortless. It also promotes even browning by allowing the balls to crisp without adhering to the surface.

Meat Thermometer: A digital meat thermometer is crucial for checking that the internal temperature of the turkey stuffing balls reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring they’re fully cooked without risking dryness from overcooking. It’s an invaluable tool for both safety and quality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use leftover turkey instead of ground turkey?
   Yes, finely chop or shred leftover cooked turkey and mix it into the stuffing for a quick shortcut.
2. What type of stuffing mix works best?
   Any seasoned stuffing mix works well. Opt for a cornbread mix for a Southern-inspired flavor.
3. Can I make these gluten-free?
   Substitute gluten-free stuffing mix and ensure your broth is also gluten-free.
4. What’s the best dipping sauce?
   Cranberry sauce, turkey gravy, or even a honey mustard dip are fantastic options.
5. Can I air-fry these?
   Yes! Air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
6. How do I prevent the balls from falling apart?
   Ensure the mixture is moist enough to bind. Add more broth or an extra egg if needed.
7. Can I make these spicy?
   Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced chili for a spicy variation.
8. How do I store leftovers?
   Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delicious and versatile dish that captures the comforting flavors of holiday stuffing in a fun, bite-sized format. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or creative way to use up leftovers, these stuffing balls are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

With their crispy exterior, savory filling, and endless customization options, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Try these Turkey Stuffing Balls today and enjoy a dish that brings the warmth and nostalgia of the holiday season to your table year-round!

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