Crunchy Turkey Stuffing Balls Recipe: Fun Holiday Bites

Comfort cooking reaches new heights with these irresistible crispy turkey stuffing balls that blend savory herbs and golden-brown crunch.

Every bite packs a nostalgic punch of traditional holiday flavors.

Perfectly seasoned breadcrumbs combine with tender turkey and aromatic herbs to create a delightful appetizer.

These crispy morsels elevate classic stuffing into a handheld delight that steals the show at any gathering.

The recipe delivers a crowd-pleasing twist on a classic side dish that transforms leftover ingredients into something extraordinary.

Serve these delectable stuffing balls hot and watch them disappear in moments.

Prepare to become the culinary hero at your next meal.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories: 320 kcal

Servings: 5

Ingredients That Make Turkey Stuffing Balls Work

• Ground Turkey: Lean protein that creates a hearty foundation for the stuffing balls.
• Breadcrumbs: Helps hold ingredients together and adds light, airy texture.
• Egg: Provides moisture and acts as a natural binding agent.

• Onion: Brings sweet and aromatic depth to the overall taste profile.
• Garlic: Adds robust, zesty undertones that complement the turkey.
• Dried Sage: Infuses classic herb flavor typical of traditional stuffing.
• Dried Thyme: Contributes earthy, slightly minty notes.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate other ingredients.

• Chicken Broth: Keeps the stuffing balls juicy and intensifies savory flavors.
• Olive Oil: Helps prevent dryness and adds subtle Mediterranean richness.

Turkey Stuffing Balls: Gear You’ll Want Nearby

• Large mixing bowl: Spacious container for combining all ingredients thoroughly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring and mixing stuffing mixture.
• Baking sheet: Flat surface for roasting stuffing balls evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precise tool for accurate ingredient quantities.
• Sharp knife: Helps chop herbs and other ingredients finely.
• Cutting board: Clean surface for ingredient preparation.

How to Form Turkey Stuffing Balls with Confidence

• Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 375°F and get your baking sheet ready with a quick spray of cooking oil or a trusty parchment paper lining.

• Mix the

Toss all your stuffing ingredients into a big mixing bowl, diving in with your hands to blend everything into a cohesive, mouth-watering mixture that sticks together perfectly.

• Shape the Delights

Roll the stuffing into cute little balls about the size of a golf ball, making sure they’re packed tight so they hold their shape during baking.

• Bake to Golden Perfection

Spread your stuffing balls across the prepared baking sheet, giving each one a bit of breathing room. Pop them into the hot oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and develop a crispy exterior.

• Cool and Serve

Pull the baking sheet out of the oven and let the stuffing balls rest for a few minutes. This quick breather helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle. Serve these tasty treasures hot as a side dish or appetizer that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Switch Up Turkey Stuffing Balls With Fun Ideas

• Prepare stuffing balls up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate, covered, before baking for a stress-free meal prep strategy.
• Add an extra egg or splash of chicken broth if the mixture seems too dry to ensure tender, juicy stuffing balls that won't crumble.
• Brush the stuffing balls with melted butter or olive oil before baking to achieve a golden-brown, crunchy exterior that adds irresistible texture.
• Swap traditional bread cubes with gluten-free bread or cauliflower rice to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Replace turkey sausage with plant-based sausage or finely chopped mushrooms to create a delicious meat-free version that's packed with flavor.

Turkey Stuffing Balls That Serve Up Flavor and Fun

• Festive Plate Partners: Pair these savory stuffing balls with roasted turkey slices for a classic holiday meal combination.
• Comfort Companion Dishes: Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes and glazed carrots to create a warm, hearty dinner plate that feels like a cozy family gathering.
• Appetizer Transformation: Break up the stuffing balls and scatter over a crisp green salad for added texture and flavor, or use as a delightful party appetizer with a tangy cranberry dipping sauce.
• Leftover: Slice these stuffing balls in half and use them as a delicious base for next-day turkey sandwiches, adding extra richness and herbaceous notes to your post-holiday meal.

Store Turkey Stuffing Balls Like a Pro

• Prepare multiple stuffing balls in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They're perfect for quick meals during busy weeks.
• Cool completely before placing stuffing balls in freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Freeze for up to 1 month, ensuring maximum flavor retention when properly sealed.
• Warm refrigerated or thawed stuffing balls in a preheated oven at 350F (175C) for 10-12 minutes. This method helps maintain their crispy exterior and moist interior.
• Divide uncooked mixture into consistent-sized balls using a cookie scoop or tablespoon. This ensures even cooking and helps manage serving sizes for different dietary needs.

FAQs

• What ingredients make these turkey stuffing balls unique?

Breadcrumbs, ground turkey, herbs like sage and thyme, and aromatic vegetables like onions and celery create a classic, flavorful stuffing mixture that’s both traditional and delicious.

• Are these stuffing balls healthy?

They’re a balanced option with lean ground turkey, vegetables, and controlled portions. Each ball provides protein, fiber, and essential nutrients while being lighter than traditional heavy stuffing.

• Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the balls up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving for fresh, warm stuffing balls.

• What can I serve with these stuffing balls?

These are perfect alongside roasted turkey, chicken, or as a standalone appetizer. They also work great as a side dish for holiday meals or casual family dinners.

Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies Recipe

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4.8 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Sweet memories bloom with these apple cider whoopie pie cookies, combining classic autumn flavors in one irresistible treat. Warm spices and creamy filling promise comfort in each delightful bite that connects taste buds with seasonal nostalgia.

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Ingredients

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Main Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup apple cider (to reduce to ¼ cup)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup applesauce

Filling Ingredients:

• 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Concentrate the apple cider by simmering it in a small saucepan over medium heat until the liquid reduces and thickens, creating a more intense flavor. Allow the reduced cider to cool completely to room temperature.
2. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350F (175C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for even cooking and easy cookie removal.
3. Create a dry ingredient mixture by whisking together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg in a mixing bowl, ensuring even distribution of spices and leavening agents.
4. In a separate large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light, airy, and pale in color, developing a smooth texture.
5. Incorporate liquid ingredients by adding egg, vanilla extract, applesauce, and the cooled apple cider reduction to the butter mixture, blending until thoroughly combined.
6. Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just incorporated to prevent overmixing and maintain a tender cookie texture.
7. Using a tablespoon, drop cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each mound approximately 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
8. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, watching for set tops and slightly golden edges. Remove from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack, allowing them to cool completely.
9. Prepare the filling by beating cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, creating a uniform base.
10. Enhance the filling by gradually mixing in powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
11. Assemble the whoopie pies by spreading or piping a generous tablespoon of filling onto the flat side of one cookie, then gently pressing a second cookie on top to create a sandwich.
12. For optimal texture and flavor melding, refrigerate the assembled whoopie pies for 30 minutes before serving, or enjoy immediately if unable to wait.

Notes

• Reduce apple cider slowly to concentrate its rich, sweet flavor and prevent burning during the simmering process.
• Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth, even mixing and a consistent cookie texture.
• Chill the dough briefly before baking to prevent excessive spreading and maintain the cookies’ shape.
• Swap applesauce with Greek yogurt for a tangier filling and added protein boost.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 240
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg