Step 2: Form the Balls
With clean hands, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used. You should get roughly 12–15 medium-sized balls depending on how large you make them.
Pro Tip: For a fun twist, press a small cube of cheese or a spoonful of cranberry sauce into the center of each ball for a gooey surprise.
Step 3: Coat for Crunch
Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Roll each stuffing ball in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. This will give your balls a beautiful crispy crust once cooked.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
Option A: Pan-Fried
- Heat 2–3 tablespoons of butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the balls in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook for 3–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Option B: Oven-Baked (Healthier Option)
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Lightly spray or brush with oil.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy and golden.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
These stuffing balls are best served warm. Pair them with your favorite sauces like gravy, cranberry sauce, or a creamy ranch dip. They make a perfect party snack, appetizer, or side dish that turns leftovers into something magical.
Tips for the Perfect Stuffing Balls
- Texture balance: Leftover stuffing tends to be dry, so the right combination of milk and eggs is crucial to hold the balls together.
- Extra flavor: Fresh herbs, grated Parmesan, or a pinch of smoked paprika can elevate the taste.
- Make-ahead: You can prepare the balls ahead of time and freeze them before cooking. Just bake or fry straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to cook through.
Final Thoughts
Leftover turkey and stuffing don’t have to be boring! With this easy recipe, you can create crispy, flavorful stuffing balls that bring new life to your holiday meal. The combination of crunchy exterior, soft stuffing interior, and savory turkey makes them irresistible for both kids and adults alike. Next time you have leftovers, don’t just reheat—get creative, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy these delightful bites!
If you want, I can also create a mini cheat sheet for the recipe that you can print and keep in your kitchen—it would summarize the method in just 5 simple steps. Do you want me to do that?
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