Turkey Stuffing Balls

If you’re searching for a holiday-inspired snack that’s just as delicious as it is practical, Turkey Stuffing Balls are the answer. Imagine the cozy comfort of roast turkey and savory stuffing, shaped into golden, bite-sized balls that are crisp on the outside and tender inside. Every bite is packed with nostalgic flavors of herbs, seasoned bread, and juicy turkey, making them perfect for festive gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. These little gems are incredibly versatile—they can be served as appetizers, party snacks, or even a side dish. Plus, they’re make-ahead friendly and freeze beautifully, so you can prepare them in advance without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped – The heart of the recipe. Turkey brings a lean, flavorful protein base, and chopping it finely helps the mixture hold together.
• 3 cups prepared stuffing – Whether you choose homemade or boxed stuffing, it provides that classic holiday flavor and a soft texture that binds the turkey.
• 2 large eggs – These act as the glue, binding all ingredients together for a firm, yet tender ball.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Brings a salty, savory punch that enhances the richness of the turkey.
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped – Adds a burst of freshness and color, balancing the deep flavors.
• 1 tsp garlic powder – Gives a subtle yet noticeable aromatic depth.
• ½ tsp onion powder – Adds an extra layer of savory flavor.
• ½ tsp dried sage – A classic holiday herb that pairs beautifully with poultry and stuffing.
• ¼ tsp black pepper – Just enough to add a little warmth without overpowering.
• Cooking spray or olive oil – Keeps the balls from sticking and promotes even browning in the oven.
• Optional: 1–2 tbsp chicken or turkey broth – Helps adjust the moisture level if the mixture is too dry.
• Optional: cranberry sauce for dipping – The sweet-tart contrast makes the savory flavors pop.

Tip: You can also add a pinch of thyme or rosemary for even more holiday flair. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility—adjust seasonings to match your own taste.

How to Make Turkey Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. If you don’t have parchment, lightly grease the sheet with cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil to prevent sticking and encourage crisping.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped turkey with your prepared stuffing. Break apart any large stuffing clumps so the mixture is even. The better you mix now, the more consistent the flavor will be in each bite.

Step 3: Add the Binding and Flavor

Crack in the eggs, sprinkle in the Parmesan, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, sage, and pepper. Using clean hands or a spoon, gently fold everything together until fully incorporated. The mixture should feel moist but not wet. If it’s crumbly, add a tablespoon of broth at a time until it holds together.

Step 4: Shape the Balls

Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it between your palms until smooth and compact. Place each ball on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly so the heat can circulate. You should end up with 20–24 balls.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the balls are firm, cooked through, and golden on the outside. Halfway through baking, rotate the pan to promote even browning.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Once done, remove the stuffing balls and allow them to cool for about 3–4 minutes. Serve them warm with cranberry sauce, gravy, or even a creamy mustard dip for something different.

Extra Tip: For an even crispier texture, brush the tops with melted butter or olive oil before baking.

How to Serve Turkey Stuffing Balls

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds brightness, while a light dusting of Parmesan cheese gives an elegant, savory finish. For a festive touch, place a small dollop of cranberry sauce on top of each ball before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, glazed carrots, or a crisp garden salad for a complete meal. They also make a fantastic side for a roast chicken or turkey dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange them on a large platter with small dipping bowls in the center—cranberry sauce, turkey gravy, and honey mustard all work beautifully. You can also skewer them with decorative picks for easy, mess-free serving at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the stuffing balls to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Arrange the cooled balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a labeled freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. This makes them perfect for batch cooking during the holiday season.

Reheating

From the fridge: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes or until warmed through.
From frozen: Bake at 350°F for 15–18 minutes, adding a few extra minutes if needed. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the exterior crisp.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
A: Yes, chicken works wonderfully and still pairs beautifully with stuffing and herbs.

Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Absolutely—finely diced celery, onions, or carrots can be sautéed and added for extra flavor and texture.

Q: How do I make them gluten-free?
A: Use a gluten-free stuffing mix and ensure all seasonings and cheese are certified gluten-free.

Q: My stuffing balls are falling apart. What went wrong?
A: They may be too dry—add a bit more broth or an extra egg to help bind them.

Q: Are these good for meal prep?
A: Yes, they’re excellent for meal prep since they freeze and reheat beautifully without losing flavor.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Stuffing Balls are the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’re serving a piece of the holidays in every bite. They’re flavorful, hearty, and easy to customize with your favorite herbs, cheeses, or dips. Whether you’re making them for a party, as a side dish for a cozy family dinner, or as a fun way to use leftovers, they never fail to please a crowd. Best of all, they’re quick to prepare, store well, and taste just as good reheated—making them a reliable addition to your cooking repertoire.

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