Name: Stuffing Ball 8 Secrets to Perfect Crispy Holiday Sides
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 18
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 cups bread cubes (about 1 pound), lightly toasted; 2 cups cooked turkey, diced into 1/2-inch pieces; 1 cup dried cranberries; 3/4 cup celery, finely diced; 3/4 cup onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried); 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried); 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon dried); 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey broth; 2 large eggs, beaten; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (divided); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning; Cranberry sauce; Turkey gravy; Fresh herbs for garnish

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Turkey Stuffing Balls revolutionize how we enjoy traditional holiday flavors by transforming classic stuffing into perfectly portioned, golden-brown spheres.

Hi, I’m Jack from Cooks Foody, and I still remember my first Thanksgiving hosting disaster the stuffing inside the turkey was still cold and mushy while the turkey breast was overcooked.

That frustrating experience led me to develop these genius stuffing balls that cook evenly every time, creating crispy exteriors with moist, flavorful centers.

Tired of unevenly cooked stuffing, dry turkey meat, or trying to coordinate too many dishes at once? These Turkey Stuffing Balls deliver all the savory herb flavors and satisfying textures you crave, enhanced with jewel-like cranberries and tender turkey pieces throughout.

Each bite-sized ball comes out perfectly golden with that satisfying crunch on the outside and pillowy softness inside. Best of all, they bake on a single sheet pan, freeing up valuable oven space during hectic holiday cooking.

After years of recipe development at Cooks Foody, I’ve perfected the ratio of bread to moisture that creates stuffing balls that hold together beautifully without being dense or soggy. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through selecting the best turkey and bread, achieving perfect texture, mastering the binding technique, troubleshooting common issues, and creating delicious variations.

Whether you’re preparing Thanksgiving dinner, using up holiday leftovers, or simply craving comfort food, these Turkey Stuffing Balls will become your new favorite way to enjoy stuffing.

Why This Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe Works

These Turkey Stuffing Balls succeed where traditional stuffing often disappoints, offering convenience, portion control, and reliable results every time.

• Uses leftover or rotisserie turkey for ultimate convenience: No need to roast a whole bird—pre-cooked turkey makes this a breeze

• Individual portions eliminate serving struggles: Each ball is perfectly sized, making plating and portion control effortless

• Crispy exterior and soft interior in every bite: The shape maximizes surface area for that coveted golden-brown crust

• Make-ahead friendly for stress-free holiday cooking: Assemble up to 24 hours ahead and bake when ready

• Freezer-friendly for meal prep: Batch-cook and freeze for quick weeknight dinners or unexpected guests

• Kid-friendly and fun to eat: The ball shape appeals to children and makes holiday meals more approachable

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Turkey Stuffing Balls

Quality ingredients elevate simple stuffing balls into memorable holiday fare that guests request year after year.

Best Turkey Options for This Recipe

Leftover roasted turkey works beautifully in Turkey Stuffing Balls use white meat, dark meat, or a combination for varied texture and flavor. Rotisserie chicken from the grocery store serves as an excellent substitute if turkey isn’t available. Cooked turkey breast tenderloin provides lean, mild flavor, while thigh meat adds richness and moisture. Avoid using raw turkey, as it won’t cook through properly in the short baking time. Dice turkey into 1/4 to 1/2-inch pieces for even distribution throughout each ball.

Buying Tips for Premium Bread

Day-old or slightly stale bread works best for Turkey Stuffing Balls fresh bread becomes gummy when moistened. Choose hearty white bread, sourdough, or French bread with substantial crust and crumb structure. Avoid soft sandwich bread, which turns mushy. Cornbread adds Southern flair and slightly sweet notes. Whole wheat or multigrain bread contributes nutty flavor and extra fiber. Cut bread into 1/2-inch cubes and let them air-dry overnight, or toast in a 300°F oven for 15 minutes until slightly crisp.

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

Use gluten-free bread cubes for celiac-friendly Turkey Stuffing Balls ensure they’re toasted until crisp to maintain structure. Replace turkey with cooked chicken breast or thigh for an equally delicious result. For vegetarian versions, substitute turkey with sautéed mushrooms and extra vegetables. Dairy-free needs? Use olive oil instead of butter and plant-based milk instead of broth. Reduce sodium by using low-sodium broth and controlling added salt.

Ingredients & Prep for Turkey Stuffing Balls

Essential Stuffing Ball Ingredients

For the Turkey Stuffing Balls:

8 cups bread cubes (about 1 pound), lightly toasted
2 cups cooked turkey, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
1 cup dried cranberries
3/4 cup celery, finely diced
3/4 cup onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey broth
2 large eggs, beaten
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning

For Serving:

Cranberry sauce
Turkey gravy
Fresh herbs for garnish

Prep Essentials for Perfect Turkey Stuffing Balls

Begin by toasting bread cubes in a 300°F oven for 15 minutes until lightly crisp this prevents soggy stuffing balls. Let cool completely. Dice cooked turkey into uniform pieces for even distribution. Sauté diced celery and onion in 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until softened this removes raw flavor and adds depth. Cool slightly before mixing with other ingredients.

Whisk eggs with broth in a large measuring cup for easy pouring. Chop fresh herbs finely to distribute flavor throughout Turkey Stuffing Balls. Have a large mixing bowl ready, plus a lined baking sheet for shaping. Lightly oil your hands before forming balls to prevent sticking.

Essential Kitchen Tools

You’ll need two large baking sheets for efficient batch baking, parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking, and a large mixing bowl for combining ingredients. A 2-ounce cookie scoop (about 1/4 cup) ensures uniform sizing for even cooking. A sharp chef’s knife dices vegetables and turkey efficiently. Measuring cups and spoons guarantee accurate ratios. A pastry brush helps with optional butter basting during baking.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Turkey Stuffing Balls

Pre-Cooking Prep for Turkey Stuffing Balls

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position racks in the upper and lower thirds. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter and sauté diced celery and onion for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.

Place toasted bread cubes in an extra-large mixing bowl. Add diced turkey, dried cranberries, sautéed vegetables, and all fresh herbs. Toss gently to distribute ingredients evenly throughout the mixture.

Mixing Method for Turkey Stuffing Balls

In a separate bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together eggs, chicken broth, remaining 4 tablespoons melted butter, salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning until well combined. Pour this liquid mixture over the bread cube mixture gradually, tossing gently with a large spoon or your hands. The bread should be moist but not soggy you want each cube coated but still holding some structure. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes to allow bread to absorb liquid fully.

Test consistency by squeezing a small handful it should hold together firmly without falling apart or feeling wet. If too dry, add 2-3 tablespoons more broth. If too wet, add 1/4 cup additional toasted bread cubes.

Shaping and Baking Turkey Stuffing Balls

Using a 2-ounce cookie scoop or your hands, portion mixture and pack firmly into balls about 2-2.5 inches in diameter. Compact pressure is essential loose balls fall apart during baking. Place shaped Turkey Stuffing Balls on prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. You should get approximately 18-20 balls from this recipe.

Optional: Brush tops lightly with additional melted butter for extra-golden, crispy exteriors. Bake for 25-30 minutes, rotating pans halfway through, until Turkey Stuffing Balls are deeply golden brown and crispy on the outside. Internal temperature should reach 165°F for food safety.

Cooling and Serving Turkey Stuffing Balls

Remove from the oven and let Turkey Stuffing Balls rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes they’ll firm up as they cool slightly. Transfer to a serving platter using a spatula. Serve immediately while warm and crispy, or hold in a 200°F oven for up to 30 minutes until ready to serve. Pair with warm cranberry sauce and turkey gravy for dipping or drizzling.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Turkey Stuffing Balls

Preventing Crumbly, Falling-Apart Balls

Proper moisture balance is crucial for Turkey Stuffing Balls that hold together. Always let the bread mixture rest for 5 minutes after adding liquid this allows full absorption. Pack balls tightly when shaping, compressing firmly between your palms. Eggs act as binder, so don’t reduce them. If balls consistently fall apart, add one more beaten egg to the mixture. Slightly damp hands prevent sticking while shaping but won’t add excess moisture.

Tool Recommendations for Turkey Stuffing Balls Success

A 2-ounce cookie scoop creates uniform balls faster than hand-shaping and ensures even cooking. Heavy-gauge aluminum baking sheets prevent bottom burning and distribute heat evenly. Silicone baking mats offer superior non-stick performance and are reusable. An instant-read thermometer confirms doneness balls should reach 165°F internally. A bench scraper helps transfer balls from work surface to baking sheet without crushing them.

Storage and Reheating Strategy

Store cooled Turkey Stuffing Balls in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 12-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again microwaving makes them soggy. Freeze cooled balls in a single layer on baking sheets until solid, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 3 months. Bake frozen balls at 375°F for 35-40 minutes without thawing, covering loosely with foil if tops brown too quickly.

Flavor Variations for Turkey Stuffing Balls

Sausage and Apple Stuffing Balls

Replace 1 cup turkey with 1 cup cooked, crumbled turkey sausage for heartier Turkey Stuffing Balls. Add 1 cup diced Granny Smith apples sautéed with onions and celery. The sweet-savory combination creates fall-perfect flavor. Use maple syrup-infused broth (2 tablespoons maple syrup added to broth) for subtle sweetness that complements apples and sausage beautifully.

Italian Herb Turkey Balls

Transform Turkey Stuffing Balls into Italian-inspired appetizers by replacing poultry seasoning with Italian seasoning blend. Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, and 1/4 cup fresh basil. Use Italian bread cubes. Serve with warm marinara sauce instead of gravy for dipping. These work beautifully as party appetizers beyond the holiday season.

Southwestern Chipotle Turkey Balls

Give Turkey Stuffing Balls a spicy twist by adding 2 diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, 1 cup corn kernels, and 1 cup black beans (drained). Replace sage with cilantro. Use cornbread exclusively for authentic Southwest flavor. Serve with chipotle aioli or avocado crema. This variation appeals to guests who love bold, spicy flavors.

Flavor Variations Comparison Table

Variation	Key Additions	Flavor Profile	Best Occasion	Difficulty
Classic Turkey Stuffing Balls	Cranberries, traditional herbs	Comforting, nostalgic, holiday-perfect	Thanksgiving, Christmas dinner	Easy
Sausage and Apple	Turkey sausage, Granny Smith apples, maple	Hearty, sweet-savory, rustic	Fall gatherings, harvest dinners	Easy
Italian Herb	Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, basil	Mediterranean, tangy, herbaceous	Italian dinners, cocktail parties	Easy
Southwestern Chipotle	Chipotle peppers, corn, black beans	Spicy, bold, smoky	Game day, casual gatherings	Easy
Wild Rice and Mushroom	Wild rice, sautéed mushrooms, shallots	Earthy, sophisticated, nutty	Elegant dinners, special occasions	Medium
Cornbread and Jalapeño	Jalapeños, cheddar, cornbread cubes	Southern, spicy, cheesy	BBQ parties, summer gatherings	Easy

Serving Suggestions for Turkey Stuffing Balls

Serve Turkey Stuffing Balls hot from the oven on a large platter garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs and whole cranberries for festive presentation. Provide warm turkey gravy in a gravy boat for drizzling or individual dipping bowls. Cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied) complements the savory balls perfectly place dollops alongside each serving or offer a communal bowl.

Pair these stuffing balls with traditional Thanksgiving sides like creamy mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, roasted Brussels sprouts, and sweet potato casserole for a complete holiday meal. They also work beautifully as appetizers serve on toothpicks with various dipping sauces like gravy, cranberry relish, or herbed sour cream for cocktail parties.

For a complete leftover makeover meal, serve Turkey Stuffing Balls alongside fresh salad greens with cranberry vinaigrette. The contrast between warm, crispy balls and cool, crisp salad creates satisfying balance. These balls also make excellent sandwich fillings split them in half and place in soft rolls with cranberry sauce and lettuce for handheld convenience.

FAQs About Turkey Stuffing Balls

Can I use store-bought stuffing mix instead of bread cubes?

Yes! Use a 12-16 ounce bag of seasoned stuffing cubes as a shortcut for Turkey Stuffing Balls. Reduce added salt and herbs since packaged stuffing contains seasonings. Follow package directions for liquid amounts, then add eggs and turkey as directed in this recipe. The results won’t be quite as customizable but work well for time-crunched cooks.

Why are my Turkey Stuffing Balls falling apart?

Balls fall apart when there’s insufficient moisture, not enough binding (eggs), or inadequate compression during shaping. Ensure bread cubes are well-moistened they should feel damp throughout. Don’t reduce eggs, as they’re crucial binders. Pack balls very firmly when shaping, compressing multiple times. If mixture seems dry, add more broth 2 tablespoons at a time until proper consistency is achieved.

Can I make these without eggs for allergies?

Yes! Replace eggs with flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water, let sit 5 minutes) for egg-free Turkey Stuffing Balls. Alternatively, use 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce as a binder. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious. Some cooks successfully use commercial egg replacer products following package directions for 2-egg equivalent.

How do I prevent the bottoms from getting too brown?

Use parchment paper or silicone baking mats instead of greased pans they insulate better. If using dark-colored baking sheets, reduce oven temperature to 350°F and increase baking time by 5-7 minutes. Rotate pans halfway through baking for even browning. If bottoms consistently overbrown, place a second baking sheet underneath the one with stuffing balls for double insulation.

Can I make Turkey Stuffing Balls in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Preheat air fryer to 360°F. Cook Turkey Stuffing Balls in a single layer (don’t overcrowd) for 15-18 minutes, shaking basket halfway through for even crisping. Work in batches if necessary. Air fryer versions come out extra crispy with slightly less oil needed. Lightly spray balls with cooking spray before air frying for best results.

Are these safe during pregnancy?

Yes! Turkey Stuffing Balls are safe for pregnant women when properly cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Use pasteurized eggs and ensure leftover turkey was stored and handled safely. The cooking process eliminates food safety concerns. However, always consult your healthcare provider about dietary questions during pregnancy.

How do I use Thanksgiving leftover stuffing to make these?

Transform leftover cooked stuffing into Turkey Stuffing Balls by adding 1-2 beaten eggs per 4 cups stuffing to help bind. Mix in diced leftover turkey and additional moistening ingredients if stuffing seems dry. Shape into balls and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through and crispy. This brilliant trick gives new life to day-old stuffing.

What’s the best way to serve these at a party?

For parties, make mini Turkey Stuffing Balls using a 1-tablespoon scoop, which yields about 40-45 appetizer-sized portions. Reduce baking time to 18-20 minutes. Serve on a platter with toothpicks inserted and multiple dipping sauces arranged around the perimeter. Keep them warm in a slow cooker set to “warm” or on a warming tray for extended serving times.

Conclusion

These Turkey Stuffing Balls transform traditional holiday stuffing into perfectly portioned, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside spheres that solve multiple Thanksgiving challenges at once. No more fighting over the crispy edges or dealing with mushy center every single ball delivers consistent texture and flavor. Whether you’re using holiday leftovers or creating a fresh batch, this recipe offers convenience without sacrificing any of the comfort food magic.

Stuffing Ball 8 Secrets to Perfect Crispy Holiday Sides