There are recipes that come and go with the seasons, and then there are recipes that stay forever in the heart of Southern kitchens. Turkey Stuffing Balls belong to the second category. Loved for their crispy exterior, tender and savory center, and the irresistible blanket of warm gravy poured over top, these comforting gems are a staple at potlucks, Thanksgiving tables, church gatherings, and cozy winter dinners.
What makes these stuffing balls so incredibly popular? First, they’re budget-friendly. Second, they’re easy to prepare in large batches, making them ideal for feeding a crowd. And most importantly, they combine everything we adore about down-home Southern cooking: simple ingredients, hearty flavors, and a dish that sticks to your ribs in the best way possible.
Today’s recipe transforms classic boxed stuffing mix and leftover turkey into a mouthwatering side dish — or even a main course — that’s golden, crispy, and drenched in rich brown gravy. Whether you’re hosting holiday dinner or participating in a community potluck, these stuffing balls will disappear faster than you can plate them.
Let’s dive into the story, flavors, ingredients, and method behind this beloved Southern comfort dish.
A Southern Tradition Born From Leftovers
Southern cooks are masters at turning leftovers into something spectacular. After Thanksgiving or Christmas, leftover turkey is abundant — and so are bits of stuffing mix in the pantry. To avoid waste and add creativity to the table, home cooks started rolling stuffing into bite-sized morsels and baking or pan-frying them until crisp.
Over time, the dish evolved. Instead of leftover stuffing alone, cooks began mixing dried stuffing mix with broth, eggs, seasonings, and shredded turkey to give the balls structure, flavor, and moisture. The result was so good that the dish stopped being “just a leftover recipe” and became a fully intentional, year-round potluck favorite.
Today, turkey stuffing balls are not only a comfort food classic but also a symbol of Southern hospitality. They’re the kind of food meant to be shared — stacked high on big platters, served with a ladle of warm gravy, and enjoyed around tables full of family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These stuffing balls require only a handful of humble ingredients, yet the final result tastes deeply flavorful and comforting.
Main Ingredients
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3 cups stuffing mix
Use any brand you love — herb seasoned, cornbread, or savory chicken flavor. Each one brings a different Southern twist. -
1 cup cooked and diced turkey
Shredded turkey breast works beautifully. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken if turkey isn’t available. -
1 cup chicken broth or turkey broth
This liquid binds the stuffing and keeps the balls moist. -
2 eggs
Eggs help the balls hold their shape and give them a tender interior. -
¼ cup softened butter
Adds richness and helps the stuffing crisp beautifully. -
Salt, pepper, and herbs to taste
Sage, thyme, parsley, or poultry seasoning can deepen the flavor.
For Serving
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Brown gravy (homemade, jarred, or packet)
Gravy is essential here — it elevates the stuffing balls from good to unforgettable.
How to Make Southern Turkey Stuffing Balls
Although elegant on the plate, these stuffing balls are surprisingly simple to prepare. Here’s a step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Prepare the stuffing mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the stuffing mix, diced turkey, broth, eggs, softened butter, and seasonings. Stir gently until everything is well-moistened. The mixture should be slightly sticky but easy to shape. If too dry, add a splash more broth. If too wet, sprinkle in more stuffing mix.
Allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes to absorb the liquid. This resting time is crucial — it hydrates the stuffing and ensures the balls hold together during baking.
Step 2: Roll into balls
Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into balls roughly 1½ to 2 inches in size. Place them on a greased baking sheet or lined tray.
This recipe typically yields 12–15 stuffing balls, depending on size.
Step 3: Bake until golden crisp
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the stuffing balls for 20–25 minutes, or until firm on the outside and lightly golden. They should hold their shape well and feel crisp when tapped.
For an extra-crispy exterior, lightly brush or spray the tops with melted butter before baking.
Step 4: Prepare the gravy
While the stuffing balls bake, warm your gravy on the stovetop. It should be smooth, hot, and pourable.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Serve the stuffing balls warm with generous ladles of brown gravy over the top. Garnish with parsley if desired.
The result? A crispy outside, tender inside, and a comforting Southern dish that practically melts in your mouth.
