Description

Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful holiday-inspired appetizer or side dish that combines mashed potatoes, flavorful stuffing, and tender shredded turkey into crispy, bite-sized spheres. They can be baked or pan-fried for a golden, savory finish and served with warm gravy and optional cranberry sauce for an extra festive touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

3 cups mashed potatoes
3 cups stuffing
1½ cups shredded turkey
Black pepper to taste

For Serving

Gravy for serving
Cranberry sauce (optional)

Optional for Pan-Fried Version

Panko breadcrumbs (optional)
Butter or oil for frying (optional)

Instructions

Prep Ingredients: Bring all ingredients to room temperature to ensure even mixing and cooking.
Warm Potatoes: Slightly warm the mashed potatoes if needed to soften them, making them easier to combine.
Moisten Stuffing: If the stuffing is dry, moisten it with a small amount of broth to enhance texture and flavor.
Mix & Form: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes and stuffing thoroughly. Fold in the shredded turkey, then season with black pepper to taste. Mix gently until well combined.
Shape Balls: Form the mixture into 12 golf ball-sized portions, compressing firmly so they hold together during cooking.
Choose Your Cooking Method: For the baked version, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the balls on a lined baking sheet, and bake for 10-12 minutes until they are hot and crispy on the outside. For the pan-fried version, roll each ball lightly in panko breadcrumbs if using, heat butter or oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat, and fry the balls, turning gently until golden brown on all sides.
Serve: Place the cooked stuffing balls on a serving dish, top generously with hot gravy, and add cranberry sauce if desired. Serve immediately while hot to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

Notes

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to prevent the balls from falling apart while cooking.
Moistening dry stuffing with broth helps keep the balls moist and flavorful.
Panko breadcrumbs and frying oil are optional but recommended for a crispy exterior in the pan-fried version.
Baking is a healthier alternative to frying and still yields a deliciously crispy texture.
Serve with cranberry sauce for a classic holiday touch and extra sweetness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Turkey stuffing balls, holiday appetizer, mashed potato balls, leftover turkey recipe, baked stuffing balls, pan-fried stuffing balls