These Turkey Stuffing Balls are tiny flavor-packed bites, perfect for your holiday feast! Made with tender turkey, savory herbs, and crunchy bits, they are sure to impress everyone.
They’re so good, you might find yourself sneaking a few before serving. I always make extra to keep for myself—who can resist that warm, cozy taste? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Turkey: Ground turkey or shredded leftover turkey both work well. If you’re vegetarian, you can substitute with a mixture of mushrooms and lentils for a hearty texture.
Cubed Bread: Day-old bread gives the best texture. You can use any kind, but whole wheat or sourdough offers more flavor. If gluten-free, opt for gluten-free bread.
Vegetables: Celery and onion enhance the stuffing’s flavor. Leeks or shallots are great substitutes for a sweeter taste. For a crunch, you could add some chopped bell peppers.
Broth: Chicken or turkey broth is the classic choice. Vegetable broth works perfectly for vegetarians. If you prefer low sodium, choose low-sodium broth to control your salt intake.
How Do I Ensure My Stuffing Balls Hold Together?
The key to perfect stuffing balls lies in binding them well. Here are some tips:
- **Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Ensure all the dry ingredients are thoroughly mixed with the wet ones, so every part gets moisture.
- **Eggs as a Binder**: The beaten eggs help hold the mixture together. Make sure to use the right amount; too few eggs can make them fall apart.
- **Resting Time**: Letting the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes allows the bread to soak up the broth and bind well. Don’t skip this step!
- **Forming the Balls**: Wet your hands while rolling the balls; this helps prevent sticking and makes it easier to shape them without crumbling.
Following these steps will help you create stuffing balls that are crispy on the outside and perfectly moist on the inside—delicious!
Turkey Stuffing Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing Balls:
- 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped or ground
- 4 cups cubed bread (day-old or slightly stale works best)
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken or turkey broth (plus more if needed)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Olive oil for greasing the baking sheet
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend around 45-55 minutes from start to finish, which makes these delightful stuffing balls a quick and easy addition to any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook these ingredients for about 5 minutes, until they are softened and fragrant. Once cooked, remove from heat and allow to cool slightly while you prepare the rest.
3. Mix the Stuffing Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread, chopped turkey, sautéed vegetables, chopped parsley, dried sage, dried thyme, poultry seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed together.
4. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and chicken or turkey broth. Pour this mixture over the bread and turkey mixture. Gently stir to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the bread is moist but not overly soggy. If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more broth until you achieve the desired consistency.
5. Let It Rest:
Allow the stuffing mixture to rest for about 5-10 minutes. This pause helps the bread to fully absorb the liquid for a solid binding.
6. Shape the Stuffing Balls:
Now it’s time to form the stuffing! With your hands or a spoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and shape them into golf ball-sized balls. Place each ball evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake Until Golden:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The stuffing balls will be ready when they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the stuffing balls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. For a finishing touch, garnish with extra chopped parsley if you like!
Enjoy these flavorful Turkey Stuffing Balls as a fun and tasty side dish for your holiday meal or any family gathering!
Can I Use Store-Bought Stuffing Mix Instead?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can substitute the homemade bread mixture with store-bought stuffing mix. Just follow the package instructions for mixing, adding cooked turkey, and any desired vegetables.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the stuffing balls cool completely and then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Turkey Stuffing Balls?
Yes, these stuffing balls freeze well! Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes.
What Can I Serve with Turkey Stuffing Balls?
These stuffing balls pair wonderfully with gravy, cranberry sauce, or a simple salad. They also make great appetizers or snacks on their own!