When holiday feasts leave you with mountains of leftovers, why settle for reheating the same plate when you can transform them into something entirely new? These golden, crispy croquettes combine tender turkey, savory stuffing, and a variety of vegetables for a snack or meal that’s bursting with flavor. The secret twist? Using cheesy crackers or crispy fried onions as the coating for an extra punch of taste and crunch. Whether you serve them as a quick lunch, an appetizer, or a light dinner, these croquettes will quickly become your go-to post-holiday recipe.
Ingredients for Savory Turkey and Stuffing Croquettes
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10–12 oz (283–340 g) cooked turkey (holiday leftovers are perfect)
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1 cup (150 g) stuffing (holiday leftovers)
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1 stalk celery, diced
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2 small green onions, finely chopped
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1 cup (150 g) cauliflower & broccoli florets, green bean casserole, or corn
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1 large egg
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1–1 1/2 cups (150–225 g) cracker crumbs (Cheeze-Its recommended, but any crackers will work)
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Pinch salt and pepper
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1 cup (150 g) French fried onions or crackers, crushed
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Olive oil for frying
How to Make Savory Turkey and Stuffing Croquettes
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Using a food processor, chopper, or blender, finely chop the turkey, celery, green onions, cauliflower, and broccoli.
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Stir in the stuffing and 1 cup (150 g) of crushed cracker crumbs. (Cheeze-Its, saltines, or any flavorful crackers work great.)
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Whisk the egg in a small bowl and add it to the mixture along with a pinch of salt and pepper to help bind the patties.
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Scoop out a portion of the mixture and roll into a ball until it holds together (add more cracker crumbs if it feels too loose). Flatten into patties about the size of a standard burger bun in diameter.
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Dredge each patty in crushed French fried onions or the remaining cracker crumbs for an extra-crispy coating.
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Heat a skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil, and fry the patties for 3–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
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Serve hot over a bed of fresh greens with a light dressing (such as sour cream with chives) or on a grilled sesame bun with tomato, cucumber, and lettuce. For appetizers, make the patties smaller.
A Delicious Way to Give Leftovers New Life
These turkey and stuffing croquettes prove that leftovers don’t have to be boring. The combination of savory filling, crispy exterior, and versatile serving options means they can be adapted to whatever you have on hand. Serve them as a satisfying snack, a quick weeknight dinner, or even as a fun party appetizer — they’re sure to disappear fast.
