Turkey Stuffing Balls with Crispy Panko and Savory Gravy Recipe
Introduction
Turkey stuffing balls are a delicious and creative way to enjoy leftover turkey and stuffing. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they’re perfect as a snack or side dish, especially during the holidays.
Ingredients
- 3 cups mashed potatoes
- 3 cups stuffing
- 1½ cups shredded turkey
- Gravy for serving
- Black pepper to taste
- Panko breadcrumbs (optional)
- Butter or oil for frying (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring all ingredients to room temperature. Warm the mashed potatoes slightly if needed, and moisten the stuffing with broth if it feels dry.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes and stuffing. Fold in the shredded turkey and season with black pepper to taste.
- Step 3: Form the mixture into 12 golf ball-sized portions, shaping them gently but firmly.
- Step 4: Choose your cooking method:
- Baked version: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), place the balls on a lined baking sheet, and bake for 10–12 minutes until hot and crispy.
- Pan-fried version: Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs. Heat butter or oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat and fry the balls until golden brown, turning gently to cook evenly.
- Step 5: Serve the turkey stuffing balls topped with hot gravy. Add cranberry sauce if you like, and enjoy immediately while hot.
Tips & Variations
- If you prefer a firmer texture, chill the mixture for 30 minutes before shaping.
- For extra flavor, add chopped herbs like sage or thyme into the mixture.
- Use leftover gravy or a warm dipping sauce to keep the balls moist when serving.
- Gluten-free cooks can skip the panko or use gluten-free breadcrumbs for frying.
Storage
Store leftover turkey stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a warm oven or microwave until heated through. For best texture, reheat baked balls in the oven to retain crispiness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use leftover turkey and stuffing for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is a great way to use leftover turkey and stuffing, making them into a new and exciting dish.
Can I freeze turkey stuffing balls?
You can freeze the shaped balls before cooking. Place them on a tray to freeze individually, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
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Turkey Stuffing Balls with Crispy Panko and Savory Gravy Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 12 turkey stuffing balls 1x
Description
Delicious turkey stuffing balls made by combining mashed potatoes, stuffing, and shredded turkey, then baked or pan-fried to golden perfection and served with warm gravy. A comforting and easy-to-make side or appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
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 the ingredients to room temperature to ensure even mixing and cooking. Warm the mashed potatoes slightly if needed to make them easier to combine. If the stuffing is dry, moisten it with broth to achieve the right consistency.
- Mix & Form: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes and stuffing thoroughly. Fold in the shredded turkey evenly. Season with black pepper to taste. Form the mixture into 12 golf ball-sized portions, shaping them firmly to hold together during cooking.
- Choose Your Method – Baked Version: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the turkey stuffing balls on a lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until heated through and crispy on the outside.
- Choose Your Method – Pan-Fried Version: Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy coating. Heat butter or oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat. Fry the balls gently, turning carefully until golden brown on all sides and heated through.
- Serve: Serve the turkey stuffing balls hot topped with warm gravy. Optionally, add cranberry sauce for a sweet and tangy contrast. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can prepare these balls ahead of time and refrigerate before cooking.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free stuffing and breadcrumbs.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste.
- Use leftover turkey and stuffing to reduce food waste.
- Both baking and frying methods work well; baking is healthier while frying yields extra crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: turkey stuffing balls, holiday recipe, Thanksgiving side dish, mashed potatoes, stuffing, pan-fried, baked, leftovers recipe
