Turkey stuffing balls

Chop or shred the turkey: Finely chop or shred the leftover turkey to help it blend better with the stuffing and form compact balls.
Check the stuffing consistency: If your stuffing is too dry, add a bit of broth to soften it up. You want it moist but not soggy, as this will help bind the balls together.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped turkey and stuffing.
Add the beaten egg to the mixture. This will act as a binder to hold the balls together.
Add the grated cheese for flavor and a bit of extra moisture.
If the mixture seems too loose or wet, add a handful of breadcrumbs. This will help to absorb some of the moisture and make it easier to form the balls.
Season with salt, pepper, and parsley, adjusting to taste. Be cautious with salt, as holiday leftovers can already be quite seasoned.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture into your hands and roll it into a ball. The size can be adjusted depending on your preference, but keeping them bite-sized (around 1-2 inches in diameter) works best.
Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.

Once all the balls are formed, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and heated through. If you’d like a crispier texture, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Remove the turkey stuffing balls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Serve with warmed gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping. These sauces add a lovely holiday flavor that complements the savory stuffing and turkey perfectly.

Adjust Moisture Levels: Depending on how moist or dry your stuffing is, you may need to adjust the recipe. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of broth or melted butter. If too wet, add more breadcrumbs.
Use Fresh or Dried Herbs: Adding fresh parsley, rosemary, or thyme can enhance the flavor and bring out the holiday aroma in these bites.
Experiment with Cheese: Cheddar adds a sharp flavor, while mozzarella provides a mild, gooey texture. Feel free to try other cheeses like Swiss or gouda for a unique twist.
Make-Ahead and Freeze: These balls freeze beautifully. Place the unbaked balls on a baking sheet in the freezer until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Cranberry and Pecan: Add ¼ cup dried cranberries and a handful of chopped pecans for a sweet and nutty twist.
Garlic and Herb: Add a dash of garlic powder and Italian seasoning for a more savory, herbaceous flavor.
Stuffed with Cheese: For a cheesy surprise, place a small cube of cheese in the center of each ball before rolling. This melts inside as they bake for a gooey center.

As an Appetizer: Turkey stuffing balls make a great appetizer for holiday gatherings or game-day snacks.
With a Side Salad: Serve alongside a fresh, crisp salad to balance the savory flavors with some freshness.
In a Lunchbox: Pack a few with a small container of gravy for a fun holiday-inspired lunch.

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Place the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through, or in the microwave for a quick option.

Minimizes Food Waste: This recipe is an excellent way to use up leftover turkey and stuffing, reducing waste and extending your holiday flavors.
Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, it’s a quick and easy recipe anyone can make.
Versatile: Enjoy these turkey stuffing balls as a snack, appetizer, or main dish. Their small size makes them perfect for any occasion.