Can I make these if my stuffing has sausage or nuts in it?

Absolutely! Any type of stuffing works beautifully in this recipe. If your stuffing already contains sausage, nuts, or dried fruits, those will add wonderful texture and flavor to your muffins. Just make sure to chop any larger pieces smaller to ensure even distribution.

What if I don't have enough leftover stuffing?

If you're short on stuffing, you can bulk up the mixture with breadcrumbs, cooked rice, or even leftover mashed potatoes. Just adjust the liquid accordingly to get the right consistency. You might need to add a bit more seasoning if using plain breadcrumbs or rice.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Certainly! Simply omit the turkey and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. You can add extra vegetables, mushrooms, or even crumbled vegetarian sausage for texture and protein. These adaptations make for delicious vegetarian muffins that everyone can enjoy.

My muffins are falling apart – what did I do wrong?

This usually happens when there isn't enough binding agent. Try adding another egg to the mixture, or if they're already baked, serve them with plenty of gravy. Next time, ensure your stuffing mixture is moist enough before baking and that you've allowed them to cool slightly in the tin before removing.

Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey and Stuffing Muffins Recipe

Name: Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey and Stuffing Muffins Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups leftover stuffing; 2 cups leftover turkey (shredded or chopped); 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup stock (plus more as needed); Cranberry sauce (optional); Gravy (optional)

Transform your holiday leftovers into something truly spectacular with these Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey and Stuffing Muffins! Crispy on the outside, warm and savory on the inside – these delightful little cups are the perfect solution for those post-holiday blues when you’re wondering what to do with all that leftover turkey and stuffing. They’re incredibly simple to make, ready in just 40 minutes, and will have your family asking for leftovers all year round!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Solves the Leftover Dilemma: No more boring turkey sandwiches! This creative recipe transforms your Thanksgiving leftovers into something completely new and exciting.
Quick and Simple: With just 4 basic ingredients and minimal prep, these muffins come together in minutes – perfect for when you’re tired from holiday cooking but still want something delicious.
Portable Perfection: These handheld muffins make excellent grab-and-go breakfasts, lunch box additions, or snacks for the days following Thanksgiving.
Customizable: Easily adaptable to whatever leftovers you have on hand – swap ingredients, add extras, or adjust seasonings to make them your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Leftover Stuffing: The base of our muffins that provides those wonderful Thanksgiving herbs and flavors. The bread in the stuffing helps create the structure of the muffins.
Leftover Turkey: Adds protein and that classic holiday flavor. Make sure to chop it into small, bite-sized pieces for even distribution throughout the muffins.
Eggs: Acts as the binding agent that holds everything together. They’re essential for creating that perfect muffin texture.
Chicken or Turkey Stock: Adds moisture to ensure your muffins aren’t dry. The amount needed will depend on how moist your original stuffing was.
Cooking Spray: To prevent sticking and ensure easy removal from the muffin tin.
Optional Toppings: Leftover cranberry sauce or gravy makes these muffins even more delicious when served on the side or drizzled on top.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Different Protein Options

Swap the turkey for leftover ham, chicken, or even crumbled sausage from your holiday breakfast.

Veggie Additions

Fold in leftover roasted vegetables like carrots, brussels sprouts, or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.

Cheese Please

Add a handful of shredded cheddar, Gruyère, or Swiss cheese to the mixture for a melty, cheesy twist.

Spice It Up

Mix in a dash of hot sauce, some diced jalapeños, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper if you want a spicy version.

How to Make Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey and Stuffing Muffins

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Thoroughly grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray, making sure to coat the sides as well as the bottom of each cup.

Step 2: Mix Your Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your leftover stuffing and chopped turkey. Add the eggs and enough stock to moisten the mixture without making it soggy. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Fill the Muffin Cups

Divide the mixture evenly among the 12 muffin cups. You can use an ice cream scoop for consistent portioning. Press the mixture down slightly in each cup.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake the muffins for approximately 30 minutes, or until the tops are slightly crispy and golden brown, and the centers are completely cooked through.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the muffins cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps them set up and makes removal easier. Then, carefully remove each muffin and serve warm with leftover cranberry sauce or gravy.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Check Stuffing Moisture: If your stuffing was dry to begin with, don’t hesitate to add extra stock as needed. The mixture should be moist enough to hold together but not soggy.
Use a Cookie Scoop: For perfectly even muffins, use a large cookie or ice cream scoop to portion the mixture into the muffin cups.
Customize Your Mix-ins: These muffins are incredibly versatile – feel free to add any leftover vegetables, herbs, or even a sprinkle of cheese.
Storage Consideration: If you’re planning to freeze these, cool them completely before packaging to prevent sogginess.
Muffin Liner Option: If you’re concerned about sticking, you can use parchment paper muffin liners instead of just cooking spray.

How to Serve

Breakfast Option

Serve these muffins for breakfast with a fried or poached egg on top and a side of fruit for a complete morning meal.

Lunch Pairing

Pair with a light salad dressed with vinaigrette for a balanced lunch that won’t leave you feeling heavy.

Dinner Presentation

For dinner, arrange 2-3 muffins on a plate with a drizzle of warm gravy and a side of leftover cranberry sauce. Add some roasted vegetables on the side for a complete meal.

Party Platter

These make fantastic appetizers! Serve mini versions with small dishes of gravy and cranberry sauce for dipping at your post-holiday gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store your muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

These muffins freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating

For refrigerated muffins, reheat in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

For frozen muffins, either thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, or reheat from frozen in a 325°F oven for 15-20 minutes until hot in the center.

FAQs

Can I make these if my stuffing has sausage or nuts in it?

Absolutely! Any type of stuffing works beautifully in this recipe. If your stuffing already contains sausage, nuts, or dried fruits, those will add wonderful texture and flavor to your muffins. Just make sure to chop any larger pieces smaller to ensure even distribution.
What if I don’t have enough leftover stuffing?

If you’re short on stuffing, you can bulk up the mixture with breadcrumbs, cooked rice, or even leftover mashed potatoes. Just adjust the liquid accordingly to get the right consistency. You might need to add a bit more seasoning if using plain breadcrumbs or rice.
Can I make these vegetarian?

Certainly! Simply omit the turkey and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. You can add extra vegetables, mushrooms, or even crumbled vegetarian sausage for texture and protein. These adaptations make for delicious vegetarian muffins that everyone can enjoy.
My muffins are falling apart – what did I do wrong?

This usually happens when there isn’t enough binding agent. Try adding another egg to the mixture, or if they’re already baked, serve them with plenty of gravy. Next time, ensure your stuffing mixture is moist enough before baking and that you’ve allowed them to cool slightly in the tin before removing.

Final Thoughts

These Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey and Stuffing Muffins are the ultimate solution to holiday leftovers! They transform what might be boring repeats of your Thanksgiving meal into exciting new treats that everyone will love. With their crispy exterior and warm, savory interior, these muffins capture all the flavors you love about the holidays in convenient, single-serving portions. Give them a try – I guarantee they’ll become a post-Thanksgiving tradition in your home!