If you’re searching for a comforting yet unique twist on classic holiday sides, this Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe is going to become your new favorite. These delightful little bites bring together the juicy richness of ground turkey and the savory heartiness of seasoned stuffing, baked to a golden, crispy perfection. They’re easy to make, irresistibly tasty, and perfect for serving as appetizers, sides, or even a snack that feels indulgent. Once you try these, you’ll wonder how you ever celebrated without them!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh, and familiar ingredients come together to create the magic in this Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role: the ground turkey adds lean protein, the stuffing mix gives incredible texture and seasoning, and the herbs brighten the whole bite with classic fall flavors.
- 1 lb ground turkey: Choose lean turkey for moist, tender balls that hold together beautifully.
- 3 cups stuffing mix: Whether store-bought or homemade, this brings the iconic savory comfort of stuffing.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when cooked.
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped: Offers fresh crunch and balances the richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A little punch of flavor that elevates every bite.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the mixture moist and juicy without being wet.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Brings a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness.
- 1 tsp dried sage: Classic seasoning that perfectly complements turkey.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Earthy and aromatic, it rounds out the flavor profile.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and bite.
- Salt to taste: Essential to bring out the flavors of all the ingredients.
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing): Gives the balls a golden, irresistible finish as they bake.
How to Make Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep those tasty balls from sticking. This simple set-up ensures an easy cleanup and perfectly crisp edges.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, stuffing mix, chopped onion, celery, garlic, chicken broth, parsley, sage, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly until well incorporated. This is where the flavors marry beautifully, creating that irresistible stuffing base wrapped in juicy turkey.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
With clean hands, form the mixture into golf ball-sized portions, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them slightly apart so they cook evenly and get a nice crust all around.
Step 4: Butter Brush for Golden Perfection
Brush the tops of each ball with melted butter. This step might seem small, but it’s crucial for turning these into golden, buttery bites with a beautiful finish that looks as mouthwatering as they taste.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Cooked Through
Pop your baking sheet into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe is done when they’re cooked through and have a lovely golden brown exterior. The aroma alone will have you eagerly waiting to take your first bite!
How to Serve Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra fresh parsley or a pinch of dried herbs on top for an inviting pop of color and fresh scent. A light drizzle of cranberry sauce or gravy can add a sweet and tangy contrast that complements the savory stuffing balls perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair these delightful balls alongside classic green bean casserole, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a zesty cranberry salad. They also work wonderfully with mashed potatoes or a simple garden salad to keep the meal balanced and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe on a wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces like spicy mustard, aioli, or tangy barbecue sauce for interactive fun. Or thread a few onto skewers for a party appetizer that’s both easy to eat and visually appealing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain the best texture and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
These balls freeze beautifully! Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. This way you can enjoy this comforting dish anytime with minimal effort.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes to retain their crisp exterior. Avoid microwaving if possible, since that can make them lose their delightful texture and become soggy.
FAQs
Can I use leftover stuffing instead of stuffing mix?
Absolutely! Leftover stuffing can be a fantastic substitute and adds a homemade touch, just make sure it’s not too wet so the balls hold their shape during baking.
Is ground turkey the only meat that works?
You can experiment with ground chicken or even a mix of ground pork and turkey for a slightly different flavor, but turkey is ideal for its mild taste and lean texture.
Can these be made gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free stuffing mix and confirm that all other ingredients, like broth, are gluten-free. The recipe will still deliver on taste and texture.
How do I keep the stuffing balls from falling apart?
Make sure to mix everything well and add just enough broth to moisten without making the mixture soggy. Chilling the balls for 10 minutes before baking can also help them hold their shape better.
What dipping sauces work best with this recipe?
Classic cranberry sauce, a tangy mustard, or a creamy garlic aioli are all excellent choices that complement the flavors in the Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the comfort and flavor packed into this Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe. It’s simple enough to whip up on a busy day but impressive enough to serve at any gathering. I wholeheartedly encourage you to make this recipe your own and share the joy of these golden bites with family and friends. Trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds in no time!
Print
Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Turkey Stuffing Balls are a savory and delicious appetizer or side dish perfect for holiday gatherings or casual meals. Made with ground turkey, seasoned stuffing mix, and fresh aromatics, they are baked to golden perfection with a buttery finish that adds richness and flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 3 cups stuffing mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, stuffing mix, finely chopped onion, celery, minced garlic, chicken broth, fresh parsley, dried sage, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, creating a moist but firm mixture.
- Form Balls: Use your hands to shape the mixture into golf ball-sized balls, approximately 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them spaced slightly apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow even cooking.
- Brush with Butter: Lightly brush the tops of each stuffing ball with melted butter. This step will give them a beautiful golden color and add a delicious buttery taste when baked.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are cooked through, firm to the touch, and golden brown on the outside. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute ground turkey with plant-based ground meat and use vegetable broth.
- Ensure the stuffing mix is not too dry; chicken broth adds moisture to bind the mixture.
- These stuffing balls can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen; reheat in the oven before serving.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste, especially salt and pepper.
