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Thanksgiving Leftover Protein Bites

Print Recipe
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked turkey , finely chopped or shredded light or dark meat
  • 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (or regular mashed potatoes), not overly wet
  • 3/4 cup leftover stuffing , crumbled optional but awesome for flavor
  • 1/3 cup cranberry sauce whole berry preferred; optional swirl
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Swiss
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup almond flour or panko breadcrumbs add more as needed for binding
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs parsley, chives, or thyme
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional but recommended
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt , more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Olive oil spray or a little melted butter for brushing

Method
 

  1. Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment and spray lightly.
  2. Finely chop or shred the turkey so it mixes evenly. Large chunks = crumbly bites.
  3. In a large bowl, combine turkey, mashed sweet potatoes, stuffing, cheese, eggs, almond flour (or panko), herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. The mixture should be tacky and hold shape when squeezed. If too wet, add 1–2 tablespoons more almond flour/panko. If too dry, add 1–2 tablespoons milk or broth.
  5. Fold in cranberry sauce gently for ribbons of sweet-tart flavor. Don't overmix into pink mush.
  6. Scoop into 1.5-inch balls (about 2 tablespoons each). Roll firmly so they don't crack. Arrange on the sheet with a little space between.
  7. Lightly brush with melted butter or oil for golden edges and a tiny flex of decadence.
  8. 14–18 minutes, flipping halfway, until set and golden. Edges should brown slightly; centers should feel firm.
  9. 380°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking once. Watch closely—air fryers love to go overachiever.
  10. Pair with your dip of choice and pretend you planned this all along.