Of course! Leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls are a fantastic and delicious way to give your Thanksgiving or Christmas leftovers a exciting second life. They’re crispy on the outside, soft and savory on the inside, and perfect for dipping.
Here’s a comprehensive guide, including a classic recipe, tips for success, and fun variations.
The Basic Concept
You’re essentially taking your leftover stuffing, binding it together, and pan-frying or baking it into delicious, bite-sized fritters. The magic is in the crisp exterior that gives way to the familiar, herby flavor of the stuffing.
Classic Leftover Stuffing Balls Recipe
This recipe is highly adaptable based on what you have on hand.
Yields: About 12-16 stuffing balls
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10-15 minutes
Ingredients:
· 2 cups leftover stuffing, cold
· 1 large egg, lightly beaten
· ¼ – ½ cup leftover mashed potatoes OR ¼ cup all-purpose flour (see note below)
· ½ cup finely chopped leftover turkey
· 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tsp dried)
· ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but highly recommended)
· 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil, for frying (or cooking spray for baking)
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the cold leftover stuffing, beaten egg, chopped turkey, parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Mix gently with a fork.
- Check Consistency: The mixture should be moist enough to hold together when squeezed. If it’s too dry and crumbly, add a tablespoon of gravy, stock, or even a little more mashed potato. If it’s too wet, add a tablespoon of flour or breadcrumbs.
- Form the Balls: Using your hands, scoop up about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it firmly into a ball, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate or baking sheet.
- Cook (Choose Your Method):
Pan-Frying (For Maximum Crispiness):
· Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
· Place the stuffing balls in the skillet, leaving a little space between them. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
· Cook for 3-5 minutes, then gently roll them over. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy on all sides and heated through.
Baking (For a Healthier, Hands-Off Approach):
· Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
· Arrange the stuffing balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush them with oil.
· Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp. - Serve: Serve immediately while hot and crispy! They are perfect with leftover gravy, cranberry sauce, or a dollop of sour cream for dipping.
The “Binding Agent” Note: Mashed Potatoes vs. Flour
This is the most important part for getting the right texture:
· Mashed Potatoes: This is the preferred method. It adds incredible moisture and flavor, and helps create a wonderfully soft interior. It’s the ultimate leftover synergy!
· All-Purpose Flour or Breadcrumbs: Use this if your stuffing is already quite moist or if you don’t have mashed potatoes. It acts as a drier binder. Start with ¼ cup and add more only if needed.
Pro Tips for the Best Stuffing Balls
· Cold Stuffing is Key: Cold stuffing holds its shape much better when you’re forming the balls.
· Don’t Over-mix: Gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Over-mixing can make the balls tough.
· Taste Test: Before you form all the balls, cook a small tester patty in your pan. This lets you check the seasoning and adjust with salt, pepper, or more herbs if needed.
· Get Creative with Add-Ins: The base recipe is a canvas! Consider adding:
· 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon or sausage.
· 1/4 cup shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or goat cheese.
· 2 tablespoons dried cranberries or chopped apples for a sweet touch.
· A dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
How to Serve Them
· Appetizer: Serve them on a platter with small bowls of gravy, cranberry sauce, and sour cream for dipping. They’re a huge hit at holiday parties!
· Side Dish: They are a fantastic side for a “Leftovers Round 2” dinner, perhaps with some sliced turkey and a green salad.
· Brunch: Serve them alongside eggs for a festive holiday brunch.
· In a Bowl: Place a few stuffing balls in a bowl, top with shredded turkey, warm gravy, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a deconstructed “Thanksgiving Bowl.”
Enjoy your delicious and creative use for leftovers