These Leftover Turkey Meatballs are the perfect 3-ingredient recipe to make after the Thanksgiving feast commences and you’re left with turkey leftovers.
Every year we purposely make extra food for Thanksgiving dinner because let’s be honest, Thanksgiving leftovers have a ton of flavor the next day.
While you can certainly make the traditional turkey sandwiches, I challenge you to make these baked turkey meatballs instead.
These leftover meatballs are a great way to use leftover turkey breast, leftover mashed potatoes, leftover stuffing, leftover gravy and some fresh cranberry sauce. Serve alongside some additional mashed potatoes, gravy and a dollop of cranberry sauce and you’ve got a match made in heaven!
In under 30 minutes, you’ll have delicious homemade turkey meatballs that will quickly become one of your favorite recipes.
By the way, I challenge you to try this Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe as well. It is delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make – If you enjoy easy meals, this is a great leftover recipe to make especially after a long day of cooking Thanksgiving dinner.
- Doesn’t waste leftovers – I don’t like wasting food and recipes like this help ensure we are using all the food we cook.
- Perfect for any sort of Thanksgiving Potluck – Aside from serving as leftovers, you can just make these for your next potluck. It would even be perfect for game day appetizers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are leftover turkey meatballs?
Leftover turkey meatballs are meatballs made from turkey meat that has been cooked and left over from a previous meal. They are a great way to use up leftover turkey meat and turn it into a new, delicious dish.
Can I freeze leftover turkey meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze leftover turkey meatballs. Make sure to cool them completely before placing them in an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the meatballs in the refrigerator overnight and then heat them in a saucepan or in the oven until they are warmed through.
Can I use leftover turkey meatballs in other recipes?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey meatballs can be used in a variety of recipes such as spaghetti and meatballs, meatball sandwiches, meatball subs, or even in a meatball curry. They are a versatile ingredient that can be incorporated into many different dishes.
What other ingredients can I add to the turkey meatballs?
You can change the flavor of the meatballs by adding other ingredients such as; fresh herbs, black pepper, hot sauce, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, fresh parsley, finely chopped fresh vegetables, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Are leftover turkey meatballs healthy?
Leftover turkey meatballs can be a healthier option depending on how they are made. Rather than using ground beef or ground chicken, turkey meat is a lean protein, and by adding vegetables, breadcrumbs, and cheese, you can create a balanced meal. However, be mindful of the portion size and the ingredients you use, as adding too much cheese, breadcrumbs, or sauce can increase the calorie and fat content.
Storage Instructions:
To store these leftover meatballs, place them in an airtight container and chill in the fridge for up to 1 week. For the freezer, you can freeze for up to 3 months, also in an airtight container.
What You Will Need to Make Leftover Turkey Meatballs:
- Leftover Turkey
- Leftover Mashed Potatoes
- Leftover Stuffing
- Leftover Gravy, for serving (optional – can also use store-bought gravy)
Equipment Needed:
- Medium Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups
- Rubber Spatula
- 9×13 Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Food Processor
- 1-inch Cookie Scoop (optional)
How to Make Leftover Turkey Meatballs:
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a 9×13 baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
Place the turkey in a food processor and chop until there are no large chunks left (about 30 seconds or less.)
Measure a cup of the minced turkey and place it in a medium-large mixing bowl with the mashed potatoes and stuffing. Mix well until fully combined.
I used a slightly overflowing 1-inch cookie scoop to make each meatball. After scooping, I would roll it into a ball using my (clean) hands.
Line the meatballs up on the prepared pan. It should fit all of them perfectly, so you don’t need to do more than one baking round.
Bake for 15 minutes or until the bottoms are a golden brown.
Serve immediately with gravy, if desired, or store for later use.
Leftover Turkey Meatballs
Equipment
Ingredients
- 6-8 Ounces Leftover Turkey
- 2 Cups Leftover Mashed Potatoes
- 2 Cups Leftover Stuffing
- Leftover Gravy for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a 9×13 baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
- Place the turkey in a food processor and chop until there are no large chunks left (about 30 seconds or less.)
- Measure a cup of the minced turkey and place it in a medium-large mixing bowl with the mashed potatoes and stuffing. Mix well until fully combined.
- I used a slightly overflowing 1-inch cookie scoop to make each meatball. After scooping, I would roll it into a ball using my (clean) hands.
- Line the meatballs up on the prepared pan. It should fit all of them perfectly, so you don’t need to do more than one baking round.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until the bottoms are a golden brown.
- Serve immediately with gravy, if desired, or store for later use.
NUTRITION
Nutrition information is a rough estimate only; actual values will vary based on the exact ingredients used and amount of recipe prepared.