Air Fryer Stuffing Balls – Crispy, Savory Bites from Leftovers or Scratch

Hey friend,

Let’s talk leftovers. More specifically—what to do with that big bowl of extra stuffing sitting in the fridge after a holiday meal. I don’t know about you, but I get way more excited about leftovers when I can turn them into something new. And these Air Fryer Stuffing Balls? They’re the crunchy, golden magic your stuffing dreams are made of.

Whether you’re working with leftover sage and onion stuffing from a big dinner or whipping up a fresh batch with pantry staples, these are fast, easy, and absolutely addictive. I serve them with gravy, cranberry sauce, or just as a little appetizer before dinner. They’re always the first thing to disappear—my kids even sneak a few before they make it to the table.

And don’t worry, if you’re team Ninja air fryer or using a classic basket model, the instructions work for both. Ready to turn humble stuffing into the best bite on the plate? Let’s go.

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Stuffing Balls

There’s something about taking something familiar and giving it a fun new twist that makes cooking exciting again. That’s what I love about this recipe.

• It’s a smart way to use up leftovers
• You can also make it completely from scratch
• They’re crispy outside, soft and herby inside
• Great for holiday dinners, potlucks, or weeknight sides
• Super fast—ready in under 10 minutes

Plus, it’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but is actually super simple. If you’ve got a bowl and an air fryer, you’ve got this.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Air Fryer Stuffing Balls

You’ve got two easy options here—use leftover stuffing or make a simple version from scratch.

If You’re Using Leftover Stuffing

• 3 cups cold leftover stuffing (any variety works)
• 1 large egg, whisked
• 2 to 4 tablespoons chicken broth (or water)
• Olive oil or spray oil

If You’re Making Stuffing from Scratch

• 4 cups dried bread cubes (boxed stuffing mix or cubed day-old bread)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ onion, chopped
• 2 ribs celery, chopped
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons dried sage
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 egg
• ¼ to ½ cup chicken broth

How to Make Air Fryer Stuffing Balls – Two Simple Ways

Let’s break this down whether you’re using cold, leftover stuffing or starting from scratch.

Method 1: Air Fryer Stuffing Balls from Leftovers

This is my go-to right after Thanksgiving. No one even realizes they’re leftovers!

Step 1: Mix the stuffing

In a large bowl, combine:

• 3 cups of cold stuffing
• 1 whisked egg

Add chicken broth 1 tablespoon at a time until the mixture is moist enough to shape into balls. It should be sticky but not soggy.

Step 2: Form the balls

Scoop the stuffing into walnut-sized balls. I use a cookie scoop or just my hands. Don’t pack them too tightly or they’ll get dense.

Step 3: Lightly oil

Spray each ball with olive oil or brush them lightly. This helps them crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.

Step 4: Air fry

Place the stuffing balls in your air fryer basket, spacing them out about 1 inch apart. Cook at 375°F for 6–8 minutes until golden and crispy. Work in batches if needed.

Tip: No need to flip them unless your air fryer cooks unevenly. Just check at 6 minutes and go from there.

Method 2: Stuffing Balls Made from Scratch

If you don’t have leftovers, don’t worry—you can still make delicious stuffing balls from pantry staples.

Step 1: Prep the bread cubes

Place 4 cups of dried bread cubes in a mixing bowl. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the veggies

In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add chopped onion and celery and cook until soft, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in the garlic powder, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Pour the veggie mixture over the bread cubes.

Step 3: Add liquid

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

• 6 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup chicken broth

Pour over the bread mixture and stir gently until combined. If it looks dry, add more broth 1 tablespoon at a time.

Step 4: Chill

Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes. This helps the bread absorb all the flavor and moisture, making the balls easier to shape.

Step 5: Shape and cook

Form into balls, spray or brush with olive oil, and air fry at 375°F for 6–8 minutes until golden and crisp.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Stuffing Balls

These stuffing balls make the perfect addition to a holiday or weeknight meal. Try serving them with:

• Roast turkey and gravy
• Cranberry sauce or apple compote
• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Chicken and green beans
• Stuffing Balls with Gravy (just spoon some over the top!)

They also make amazing appetizers. Just serve them with a dip like ranch, gravy, or garlic aioli and watch them disappear.

And if you love stuffing recipes like this, try pairing them with Grandma’s Cornbread Dressing or repurpose your mix in this Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf.

Flavor Ideas to Customize Your Stuffing Balls

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easy it is to make your own.

• Use Paxo stuffing for a British twist (sage and onion is amazing!)
• Add shredded chicken or turkey for a protein boost
• Stir in chopped cranberries or pecans for a festive touch
• Mix in Parmesan or cheddar cheese
• Make it spicy with chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce

You can also form mini versions for bite-sized appetizers. Perfect for holiday grazing tables.

How Long to Cook Stuffing Balls in the Air Fryer

I get this question a lot, especially around the holidays.

Here’s a quick reference guide:

Type	Temp	Time
Fresh-made stuffing balls	375°F	6–8 min
Leftover stuffing balls	375°F	6–8 min
Frozen stuffing balls	375°F	8–10 min
Sage & onion mix (Paxo)	375°F	7–9 min

Always check for golden brown color and a firm, but not hard texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make stuffing balls in an air fryer?
Yes! That’s what gives them the crisp exterior without deep frying or baking.

How to cook stuffing in an air fryer?
Form into balls, spray with oil, and air fry at 375°F for 6–8 minutes.

Can I use Paxo stuffing in the air fryer?
Absolutely. Prepare it according to package instructions, form into balls, and air fry.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Shape them and store in the fridge overnight. Air fry when ready to serve.

Can I freeze them?
Definitely. Freeze raw balls on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Cook straight from frozen at 375°F for about 8–10 minutes.

Do stuffing balls work in a Ninja air fryer?
Yes! Whether it’s a basket-style or Ninja Foodi, just follow the same temp and timing.

Do I need to flip them?
Not usually. But check halfway through—some air fryers cook unevenly.

How to keep them moist inside?
Don’t skip the egg and broth. That combo binds the mixture and keeps it soft inside while crisping up on the outside.

Make It a Meal with These Recipes

• Mini Bacon Chive Cheese Balls – Another appetizer favorite
• Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf – Use your stuffing in a whole new way
• Grandma’s Cornbread Dressing – Classic side dish that complements stuffing balls

Final Thoughts on Air Fryer Stuffing Balls

Whether you’re cleaning out the fridge after a holiday feast or craving something crispy and cozy on a Tuesday night, these Air Fryer Stuffing Balls are a must-try.

They’re quick, easy, and endlessly customizable. And they’re one of those recipes that make you feel like you’re winning dinner—without stressing over it.

So go ahead, give those leftovers a second life or make a fresh batch from scratch. Either way, I promise you’ll have a plate full of something everyone at the table will love.

If you try them, I’d love to see what you make! Share a pic and tag me on Pinterest or drop your tips in the comments.

Happy air frying!

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