Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups leftover turkey, shredded or chopped
- 4 cups homemade or store-bought stuffing (preferably moist, not dry)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional, but adds a lovely richness)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, for coating
- Vegetable oil or olive oil, for frying
Substitution suggestions: If you want a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour for coating. For a dairy-free version, skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. If you prefer baking over frying, olive oil spray will help crisp them beautifully in the oven.
Instructions
- Begin by gently mixing the shredded turkey with the stuffing in a large bowl. This is when your kitchen starts smelling like a holiday feast all over again.
- Add the beaten eggs, cheddar cheese (if using), parsley, sage, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to combine everything until the mixture holds together but isn’t too wet.
- Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized spheres—about 1.5 inches in diameter works best. I remember my sister Ouma and I competing to see who could make the most perfectly round balls, laughing as we went.
- Place the flour in a shallow dish. Lightly roll each ball in the flour, shaking off any excess. This step gives you that golden, crispy crust once fried.
- Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, carefully add the stuffing balls in batches, making sure not to crowd the pan.
- Fry the balls for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning gently with a slotted spoon until all sides are golden brown and crisp. The smell during this step always brings me back to the holidays at Mama Lou’s house.
- Transfer the cooked balls to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve warm with your favorite gravy, cranberry sauce, or a tangy mustard dip.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International

