Savory Turkey Stuffing Balls for Cozy Nights at Home

Why Make This Recipe

Savory Turkey Stuffing Balls are the perfect dish for those cozy nights at home. They combine familiar flavors and textures, making every bite a warm hug for your taste buds. Not only are they delicious, but they also provide a unique opportunity to use leftover turkey, especially after holiday gatherings. Instead of letting that turkey go to waste, you can easily transform it into satisfying stuffing balls that the whole family will love. With creamy mashed potatoes, herby stuffing, and tender turkey, this dish brings together everything that represents comfort food.

This recipe is versatile as well. You can customize it according to your preferences or what you have available in your kitchen. It’s a great way to involve family members in the cooking process, too. Everyone can help by mixing ingredients or shaping the stuffing balls. Ultimately, making Savory Turkey Stuffing Balls is a joyful activity that pairs perfectly with the snug ambiance of home.

How to Make Savory Turkey Stuffing Balls

Making Savory Turkey Stuffing Balls is an enjoyable and straightforward process. With just a handful of ingredients and some simple steps, you can have a delightful dish ready to be served. This easy recipe allows you to create a comforting meal that will warm you up on chilly evenings. Below, we’ll walk through the ingredients and the step-by-step process to create these delicious stuffing balls.

Ingredients

• 3 cups mashed potatoes
  Acts as a creamy base, binding the flavors together.

• 3 cups stuffing
  Brings that delightful, herby flavor that makes this dish feel like home.

• 1.5 cups shredded turkey
  Adds protein and a rich taste; perfect for using up leftovers after the holidays.

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  Optional, but they give a fabulous crunch that elevates the texture of each bite.

• 2 tablespoons butter or oil
  If using, it helps the panko brown beautifully while adding extra richness to the stuffing balls.

• 1 cup gravy
  A must-have for drizzling on top; it enhances the overall flavor and adds moisture to the dish.

• To taste black pepper
  Sprinkle for a hint of spice that elevates the savory notes.

Directions

How to Make Turkey Stuffing Balls

1. Prepare Your Ingredients
   Gather all the ingredients on your kitchen counter. Make sure to have your mashed potatoes ready; you can use leftovers or make them fresh.

2. Mix the Base
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes and stuffing. Stir them together until they are well blended. The creamy potatoes will bind the stuffing, giving the balls a nice texture.

3. Add the Turkey
   Gently fold in the shredded turkey. Make sure to distribute it evenly throughout the mixture so every bite gets a taste of turkey.

4. Season to Taste
   Add black pepper according to your preference. You can also add a pinch of salt if needed. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as necessary.

5. Form the Balls
   Using your hands, take a scoop of the mixture and roll it into balls about the size of a golf ball. Make sure they are compact so they hold together during cooking. Repeat this process until all the mixture is formed into balls.

6. Prepare for Baking
   If you are using panko breadcrumbs, spread them out on a plate. Gently roll each ball in the breadcrumbs to coat. If you want a golden, crunchy exterior, this step is important.

7. Bake the Balls
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the formed balls onto a greased baking sheet. If you opted for butter or oil, drizzle it over the balls for an extra layer of flavor. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and heated through.

8. Serve Hot
   Remove the stuffing balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle with gravy just before serving for added moisture and flavor.

How to Serve Savory Turkey Stuffing Balls

Savory Turkey Stuffing Balls are best served warm. They make a delightful main dish or a satisfying side dish. Here are a few ideas on how to serve them:

1. With Gravy
   A rich turkey or brown gravy complements these stuffing balls perfectly. Pour some gravy over the top just before serving, allowing it to drizzle down into the cracks of the balls.

2. As an Appetizer
   These stuffing balls can also work as tasty appetizers. Place toothpicks in them for easy eating at holiday parties or family gatherings.

3. Pair with Vegetables
   Serve the stuffing balls alongside roasted or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Green beans or Brussels sprouts work particularly well.

4. Baked Potato Side
   Combine these stuffing balls with baked potatoes for a comforting meal that will remind you of traditional holiday dinners.

5. Toss in a Salad
   For a lighter option, toss the stuffing balls into a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.

How to Store Savory Turkey Stuffing Balls

Storing leftovers is easy so you can enjoy your delicious stuffing balls later. Here are some tips for storing and reheating:

1. Refrigeration
   Place any leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.

2. Freezing
   If you have more leftovers than you can eat within a few days, consider freezing them. Arrange the cooled stuffing balls on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

3. Reheating
   To reheat, you can bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are heated through. If frozen, there’s no need to thaw beforehand; just add a few extra minutes to the heating time.

Tips to Make Savory Turkey Stuffing Balls

1. Choose Quality Turkey
   Using flavorful shredded turkey will enhance the dish. Leftover turkey from your holiday feast works wonderfully in this recipe.

2. Customize Your Stuffing
   Feel free to use different stuffing mixes based on what you enjoy. Some brands offer cornbread stuffing or herb-infused options, which can bring a unique twist.

3. Add Your Favorite Herbs
   Fresh or dried herbs can elevate the flavor. Consider adding thyme, rosemary, or parsley to match your taste preferences.

4. Make Them Ahead
   You can prepare the stuffing balls ahead of time and keep them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake. This is a fantastic way to save time on busy evenings.

5. Watch Cooking Time
   Oven times can vary, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the stuffing balls while they’re baking. Remove them as soon as they turn golden brown.

Variation

If you want to mix things up or need a change of pace, here are a few variations you might try:

1. Cheesy Stuffing Balls
   Add some shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, into the mixture for a gooey center. This will add richness and a new layer of flavor.

2. Spicy Version
   Mix in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. This is especially great for those who enjoy spicy foods.

3. Herb-Infused Stuffing
   Use flavored stuffing that includes herbs, or add additional herbs and spices to enhance the overall flavor.

4. Vegetable Add-ins
   Consider adding finely chopped sautéed onions, celery, or mushrooms to the mixture to give it more texture and flavor.

5. Vegan Option
   For a vegan version, substitute mashed potatoes with blended cauliflower and use vegetable stuffing along with a plant-based protein.

FAQs

Can I make these stuffing balls without mashed potatoes?

Yes! If you don’t have mashed potatoes, you can substitute them with mashed sweet potatoes or even cooked and mashed carrots for a different flavor and texture.

How do I know when the stuffing balls are done?

The balls are done when they turn a golden brown color and are heated through. You can use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach at least 165°F (74°C).

Can I use different types of meat in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use leftover chicken or a mix of different meats, depending on what you have on hand. Ground meats would also work, but you may need to adjust cooking times.

How can I make these gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Savory Turkey Stuffing Balls, simply use gluten-free stuffing mix and panko breadcrumbs. Always check ingredient labels to ensure everything is gluten-free.

How long should I bake these if I freeze them first?

If you freeze the stuffing balls before baking, you can cook them straight from the freezer. Just increase the baking time to about 35-40 minutes at 350°F (175°C), checking for a golden color and that they’re heated through.

Enjoy making your Savory Turkey Stuffing Balls and share them with family and friends. They are easy to make and hard to resist!

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