Ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- Tip: Use thick mashed potatoes, either leftovers or freshly made. If making fresh, avoid adding too much milk or butter, so they remain thick enough to hold the mixture together.
- 2 cups stuffing
- Tip: Use stuffing that’s moist but not too wet. You can use boxed stuffing, but adding some homemade herbs like sage, thyme, or parsley will boost flavor.
- 1 cup shredded turkey
- Tip: Shred the turkey finely, so it mixes evenly throughout. Leftover roasted turkey works best for a rich, savory taste.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Tip: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds a sharp, nutty flavor to the balls.
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Tip: This acts as a binder. Make sure the egg is well-beaten before adding it to the mixture.
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- Tip: Use plain or seasoned bread crumbs, depending on your flavor preference. You can add extra if the mixture feels too loose.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Tip: Add more if your mashed potatoes and stuffing are bland, but if they’re already seasoned, you may want to reduce this.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- Tip: Add more to taste if you like a little extra kick.
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, stuffing, shredded turkey, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, bread crumbs, salt, and black pepper.
- Mixing Tip: Use a large spoon or your hands to mix everything thoroughly until it’s evenly combined. The mixture should be moist enough to hold together without falling apart.
- Adjust Consistency: If the mixture is too loose, add an additional tablespoon of bread crumbs. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of broth or a little more mashed potatoes until it binds well.
- Shape the Balls:
- Use a spoon or small cookie scoop to scoop out about 1-inch portions. Roll each portion between your palms to form round, compact balls.
- Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between them. This allows for even cooking and prevents them from sticking together.
- Bake:
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the balls are lightly golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Optional Crispier Exterior: For a crispier exterior, spray or brush the balls lightly with oil before baking.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the balls cool slightly before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these warm with a side of gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping. They also pair well with a small salad or roasted vegetables for a more complete meal.
Additional Tips:
- Custom Seasoning: Feel free to add a pinch of dried herbs, like thyme, rosemary, or sage, to the mixture for extra flavor.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the balls in advance and freeze them before baking. Place the uncooked balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze for about 30 minutes, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
- Serving Style: These are perfect as appetizers, party snacks, or even a main dish when served with sides.
Enjoy your Turkey Stuffing Balls—they’re a comforting, flavorful way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers or enjoy a taste of the holiday season any time of year!