These Air Fryer Stuffing Balls are golden, crispy, and bursting with classic holiday flavor — the perfect way to reinvent leftover stuffing! Lightly crisped on the outside and soft in the middle, they make an irresistible holiday appetizer or side dish. With just a few ingredients and your air fryer, you’ll have a warm, savory snack ready in minutes.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is for home cooks who love quick, creative ways to use Thanksgiving or Christmas leftovers. It’s ideal for holiday hosts, meal preppers, or busy families who want the taste of stuffing without turning on the oven.
Why You’ll Love It
- Crispy outside, soft and flavorful inside.
- Ready in less than 15 minutes — no deep-frying needed!
- Perfect for holiday leftovers or meal prep.
- Family-friendly, freezer-friendly, and totally foolproof.
Ingredients
- 3 cups leftover stuffing (any kind works — classic, cornbread, or sausage)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup turkey gravy or chicken broth (to moisten)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Cooking spray or olive oil mist
Optional for serving:
- Warm gravy, cranberry sauce, or ranch dip
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer
- Set air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3 minutes.
- Mix the stuffing
- In a bowl, combine leftover stuffing, egg, gravy (or broth), and cheese if using. Mix until sticky and holds together when pressed.
- Form the balls
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture and roll into balls. If the stuffing is too dry, add a splash more broth.
- Air fry until golden
- Lightly coat the air fryer basket with oil spray. Arrange stuffing balls in a single layer (don’t overcrowd). Air fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crisp and golden.
- Serve & enjoy
- Serve hot with gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or scoop
- Tongs
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze uncooked balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes at 350°F to restore crispiness.
FAQ
Q: Can I make them vegetarian?
Yes — use vegetable stuffing and veggie broth or gravy.
Q: Can I bake them instead?
Absolutely — bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden.
Q: Can I add meat?
Yes — leftover turkey or sausage makes these even heartier.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Stuffing Balls are everything you love about Thanksgiving, packed into bite-sized, crispy perfection. With their crunchy exterior and soft, savory center, they’re the best way to enjoy leftover stuffing — or a new holiday tradition on their own.
Enjoy !!
