Delicious Turkey Stuffing Balls – A Must-Try Holiday Treat!

Turkey Stuffing Balls – I am absolutely delighted to share a recipe today that I believe will revolutionize your holiday table or perhaps even become a new weekly favorite! For many of us, stuffing is the undisputed star of any celebratory feast, a dish steeped in tradition, often passed down through generations. Originating centuries ago as a way to enhance flavor and moisture in roasted meats, stuffing has evolved into a beloved standalone side, particularly during the autumn and winter months. Yet, the classic pan-baked version can sometimes present a challenge – achieving that perfect balance of crisp exterior and moist interior, or serving it neatly. That’s precisely where the brilliance of Turkey Stuffing Balls comes into play.

These delightful morsels offer the quintessential savory, aromatic, and deeply comforting flavors we all adore, but with an incredible twist in texture and convenience. Imagine perfectly golden-brown exteriors giving way to a tender, herbaceous heart, all in one easy-to-manage portion. They’re adored not only for their irresistible taste and delightful crispy-chewy texture, but also for their versatility. They bake beautifully, brown evenly, and are fantastically simple to prepare ahead of time, significantly easing the pressure during big meal preparations. I am confident that once you experience the ease and deliciousness of these individual portions, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without them.

Ingredients:

• For the Bread Base:
  • 12-14 cups (approximately one 1.5 lb loaf) day-old rustic bread, sourdough, or brioche, cut into 1/2 to 3/4-inch cubes. Using day-old bread is crucial here; it will absorb the flavorful liquids without becoming soggy.
• For the Aromatic Foundation:
  • 1 cup (about 1 large) yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup (about 3 stalks) celery, finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing and brushing
• For the Meat Component:
  • 1 pound lean ground turkey (93/7 works wonderfully, but 85/15 also adds richness)
• For the Herbs and Seasoning:
  • 2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but highly recommended for depth)
• For the Liquids and Binder:
  • 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, plus more if needed
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or apple cider (optional, for an extra layer of flavor)
• For Texture and Sweetness (Optional, but delightful!):
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, lightly toasted

Preparation is Key!

1. Prepare Your Bread: The very first step to truly perfect Turkey Stuffing Balls is ensuring your bread is ready. If you’re not using day-old bread, you can quickly dry out fresh bread by spreading the cubes on a baking sheet and baking at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly toasted and dry. This prevents your stuffing from becoming mushy. Once prepared, transfer the bread cubes to a very large mixing bowl; you’ll need ample space to combine everything later.
2. Mise en Place (Everything in its Place): This is where we gather and chop all our aromatics and herbs. Finely dice your yellow onion and celery. Mince your garlic. Finely chop the fresh sage, thyme, and rosemary. Chop the fresh parsley. This methodical preparation ensures a smooth cooking process and helps integrate flavors evenly into your Turkey Stuffing Balls. Having everything prepped before you start cooking the base is a chef’s secret for success and makes the entire process more enjoyable and less rushed.
3. Preheat Your Oven: While we’re preparing our base, go ahead and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze when you bake your delicious Turkey Stuffing Balls. Make sure your oven has come to temperature before you put the balls in to ensure even cooking and a beautiful golden-brown exterior.

Building the Flavorful Base

4. Sautéing Aromatics: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is shimmering, add the finely diced onion and celery. Sauté gently for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and translucent, but not browned. This step is crucial for developing the foundational flavors of your Turkey Stuffing Balls. The sweetness released from the onions and the earthy notes from the celery will infuse the entire dish.
5. Infusing with Garlic and Herbs: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter very quickly. Immediately after, stir in the fresh sage, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for just 1 minute more, allowing the heat to gently release their essential oils and intoxicating aromas. The smell at this stage will be absolutely divine and truly signals that you’re on your way to creating incredible Turkey Stuffing Balls.
6. Cooking the Ground Turkey: Push the sautéed vegetables and herbs to one side of the skillet. Add the ground turkey to the empty side and break it up with a spoon. Cook the turkey over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is fully browned and no pink remains. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Ensure the turkey is thoroughly cooked for safety and best flavor. Once cooked, use your spoon to break up any large clumps, making sure it’s in fine pieces that will blend seamlessly into the stuffing mixture.
7. Combining and Seasoning: Now, combine the cooked turkey with the sautéed vegetables and herbs in the skillet. Stir well to integrate everything. Season the mixture generously with 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and the optional 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Don’t be shy with the seasoning here; the bread will absorb a lot of it. Stir thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly throughout the turkey and vegetable mixture.
8. Deglazing (Optional, but Recommended): If you’re using white wine or apple cider, pour it into the skillet now. Increase the heat to medium-high and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with your spoon. Let the liquid simmer for 2-3 minutes until it has mostly evaporated. This adds a wonderful, subtle tang and complexity to the flavor profile of your Turkey Stuffing Balls. If omitting, simply proceed to the next step.

Creating the Perfect Stuffing Mixture

9. Introducing the Bread: Carefully transfer the entire turkey and aromatic mixture from the skillet into the very large bowl containing your bread cubes. Add the chopped fresh parsley, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans (if using). Gently toss everything together with your hands or a large spatula. The goal here is to evenly distribute the flavorful base among the bread cubes. Be gentle to avoid compacting the bread too much.
10. Adding the Liquid Binder: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the 2 lightly beaten eggs and 1 1/2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Slowly pour about half of this liquid mixture over the bread and turkey mixture. Using your hands or a sturdy spatula, gently fold and mix until the liquid is evenly distributed. Add more liquid, a little at a time, until the mixture is moist but not soaking wet. You want the bread to be fully hydrated but still hold its shape when squeezed. The exact amount of liquid can vary depending on the dryness and type of bread you use, so adjust as needed. You might not need all 1 1/2 cups, or you might need a splash more. Trust your judgment here – the perfect consistency is key for well-formed Turkey Stuffing Balls.
11. Taste and Adjust: This is a critical step that many people skip! Take a small spoonful of the mixture and either microwave it for 15-20 seconds or sauté it in a small pan until heated through. Taste it. Does it need more salt? More pepper? Perhaps a little more sage or a dash of nutmeg? Now is the time to adjust the seasonings. A perfectly seasoned mixture will result in perfectly delicious Turkey Stuffing Balls. Don’t underestimate the power of a quick taste test!

Forming and Baking Your Turkey Stuffing Balls

12. Forming the Turkey Stuffing Balls: Once your stuffing mixture is perfectly seasoned and moistened, it’s time to form the balls. Take about 2-3 tablespoons of the mixture and gently compress it with your hands, rolling it into a compact ball about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter (roughly the size of a golf ball). It’s important to make them fairly uniform in size so they cook evenly. Place the formed balls onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between each one to allow for air circulation. This recipe typically yields about 24-30 Turkey Stuffing Balls, depending on their size.
13. Optional Butter Brush: For an extra golden crust and a boost of rich flavor, you can melt a tablespoon or two of butter and lightly brush the tops of each Turkey Stuffing Ball before baking. This step is entirely optional but adds a lovely professional touch and enhances the browning.
14. Baking to Golden Perfection: Place the baking sheets in your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 25-35 minutes. The baking time will vary depending on your oven and the size of your balls. You are looking for them to be beautifully golden brown on the outside and heated through to the center. For absolute certainty, an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of a ball should read 165°F (74°C). This ensures the ground turkey is safely cooked. If they are browning too quickly, you can loosely tent them with aluminum foil.
15. Cooling and Serving: Once baked, remove the Turkey Stuffing Balls from the oven. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up slightly and prevents the bottoms from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

16. Presenting Your Masterpiece: These delightful Turkey Stuffing Balls are incredibly versatile. They make an excellent appetizer on their own, perhaps served with a side of cranberry sauce or gravy for dipping. As a side dish, they are a fantastic alternative to traditional baked stuffing, offering convenient, perfectly portioned servings. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or finely chopped chives just before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor. They are particularly wonderful alongside roasted turkey, chicken, or pork. Consider arranging them on a platter with some fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
17. Reheating for Continued Enjoyment: Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls can be gently reheated in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but the oven method helps maintain their texture and crispiness better.
18. Storage Instructions: To store, allow the Turkey Stuffing Balls to cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, these balls freeze beautifully! Arrange cooled balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, you can bake them directly in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crisp, ensuring they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). These make for excellent make-ahead options for busy holiday meals or meal prep.

Conclusion:

As we bring this culinary journey to a close, I truly hope you’re feeling as inspired and excited as I am about what we’ve explored today. This isn’t just another recipe; it’s an invitation to transform your meal planning, especially during the festive season, with something genuinely special and surprisingly simple. We’ve delved into the heart of what makes this particular dish an absolute standout, moving beyond the traditional and embracing an innovative, delicious, and incredibly convenient approach to a beloved classic.

I firmly believe that once you experience the ease of preparation and the sensational taste of these delectable morsels, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without them. Imagine the aroma of savory herbs, perfectly seasoned bread, and succulent turkey filling your kitchen – a promise of warmth and comfort. Each bite offers that quintessential stuffing flavor, but in a neat, bite-sized package that simplifies serving and portion control, making it a dream come true for both hosts and guests. It eliminates the fuss of digging into a large, often messy, traditional stuffing dish, offering elegance and efficiency in equal measure. This recipe truly is a game-changer, whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary adventures.

Unleashing the Versatility: Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations

The beauty of these Turkey Stuffing Balls lies not only in their incredible flavor but also in their immense versatility. They are, of course, a quintessential side dish for any holiday feast, pairing perfectly with roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, and a rich, velvety gravy. I always make a generous batch because they disappear quickly! But don’t limit your imagination to just the holiday table.

Consider serving them as a delightful appetizer at your next gathering. A small bowl of warm gravy or a sweet and tangy cranberry dip on the side transforms them into an irresistible finger food that will have your guests raving. They also make a fantastic addition to a weeknight meal; crumbled over a simple green salad, they add texture and a burst of savory flavor. Or, for a hearty lunch, why not pack a few alongside some leftover roast chicken? They’re just as delicious at room temperature, making them perfect for picnics or packed lunches.

For those of you who love to experiment, the possibilities for variations are endless. Feel free to adapt the recipe to your personal taste. If you’re a fan of a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a wonderful kick. For a touch of sweetness and tartness, dried cranberries or chopped apples can be folded into the mixture. You could also explore different types of bread – a sourdough or rye bread would lend a unique depth of flavor. Don’t be shy about incorporating other ingredients you love; sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even a sprinkle of crumbled bacon can elevate these balls to new heights. For a truly decadent twist, consider adding some finely chopped chestnuts. And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, experiment with different herbs; a sprig of fresh rosemary or a hint of thyme can subtly alter the aromatic profile, keeping things fresh and exciting with every batch you make.

Your Kitchen, Your Masterpiece: Time to Try!

Now that we’ve explored all the wonderful facets of this recipe, it’s your turn to bring it to life in your own kitchen. I genuinely encourage you, with all my heart, to set aside some time, gather your ingredients, and give these amazing stuffing balls a try. I promise you, the effort will be richly rewarded with incredible flavor and the joy of creating something truly special. There’s a profound satisfaction that comes from preparing delicious food from scratch, and this recipe offers that in abundance.

Once you’ve had the chance to whip up your own batch, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you add your own unique twist? What did you serve them with? Did they become an instant hit with your family and friends? Please don’t keep your culinary triumphs, tips, or any creative variations to yourself! Share your thoughts, your photos, and your success stories. Your insights not only bring me immense joy but also inspire other home cooks in our wonderful community. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear all about your delicious adventures!

Turkey Stuffing Balls

Delicious savory balls made from leftover mashed potatoes, stuffing, and shredded turkey, perfect for a holiday treat or appetizer with gravy.

Prep Time
15 Minutes

Cook Time
25 Minutes

Total Time
40 Minutes

Servings
20-25 balls

Ingredients

• 3 cups mashed potatoes
• 3 cups stuffing
• 1½ cups shredded turkey
• Black pepper, to taste
• Panko breadcrumbs (optional)
• Butter or oil, for frying (optional)
• Gravy, for serving

Instructions

1. Step 1
   In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, stuffing, shredded turkey, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
2. Step 2
   Form the mixture into golf ball-sized (approx. 1.5-2 inch) balls, compressing gently so they hold their shape.
3. Step 3
   If desired for extra crispiness, roll each ball in Panko breadcrumbs.
4. Step 4
   To bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place balls on a baking sheet and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).\nTo fry: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry balls in batches for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and heated through.
5. Step 5
   Serve hot with gravy for dipping.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.