18 Delicious Leftover Stuffing Recipes Creative

Got leftover stuffing and not sure what to do with it? You’re in luck! Our roundup of 18 Delicious Leftover Stuffing Recipes is here to transform those extra bits into mouthwatering meals. From cozy breakfast hashes to savory dinner delights, these creative ideas will make you fall in love with stuffing all over again. Let’s dive in and give those leftovers a delicious second life!

Stuffing Waffles with Maple Syrup

Transform your leftover stuffing into a crispy, golden waffle that’s perfect for brunch or a cozy breakfast.

Ingredients

• 2 cups prepared stuffing (preferably chilled overnight)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Maple syrup, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your waffle iron to medium-high heat and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, 1 tbsp melted butter, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper until well combined.
3. Fold the prepared stuffing into the egg mixture until evenly coated.
4. Scoop about 1/2 cup of the stuffing mixture onto the preheated waffle iron, spreading it slightly. Close the lid and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the waffle is crispy and golden brown.
5. Carefully remove the waffle from the iron and repeat with the remaining mixture.
6. Serve the stuffing waffles warm, drizzled with maple syrup.

The magic of this recipe lies in the contrast between the crispy exterior and the soft, savory interior, all brought together with a sweet drizzle of maple syrup.

Tip: For extra crispiness, let the waffles sit in the waffle iron for an additional minute after the indicator light goes off.

Leftover Stuffing Muffins

Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into something new and exciting with these Leftover Stuffing Muffins, perfect for a quick breakfast or a savory snack.

Ingredients

• 2 cups leftover stuffing
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a muffin tin with non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, garlic powder, and dried thyme until well combined.
3. Fold in the leftover stuffing and Parmesan cheese until the mixture is evenly moistened.
4. Spoon the mixture into the prepared muffin tin, pressing down lightly to compact.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden and set.
6. Let cool for 5 minutes before removing from the tin.

These muffins boast a delightful crispy exterior with a moist, flavorful center, making them a standout way to repurpose stuffing.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle the tops with additional Parmesan cheese before baking.

Stuffing and Egg Breakfast Casserole

Wake up to the comforting aromas of this Stuffing and Egg Breakfast Casserole, a hearty dish that combines the savory goodness of stuffing with the creamy texture of eggs.

Ingredients

• 6 cups prepared stuffing (leftover or store-bought)
• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Spread the prepared stuffing evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the stuffing in the baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and diced cooked ham evenly over the top.
6. Bake at 375°F for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden.
7. Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

The magic of this casserole lies in the way the eggs and stuffing meld together, creating layers of flavor and texture that are irresistibly comforting.

Tip: For a crispier top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.

Stuffing Stuffed Mushrooms

These Stuffing Stuffed Mushrooms are a bite-sized twist on the classic holiday side, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a cozy night in.

Ingredients

• 24 large white mushrooms, stems removed and reserved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups dry stuffing mix
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking sheet.
2. Finely chop the reserved mushroom stems. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and chopped mushroom stems; cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic; cook for 1 minute more.
3. Remove skillet from heat. Stir in stuffing mix, chicken broth, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Spoon the stuffing mixture into the mushroom caps, pressing lightly to adhere. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the stuffing is golden brown.

The crispy topping contrasts beautifully with the juicy mushroom base, making each bite a delightful mix of textures.

Tip: For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and ensure your stuffing mix is veggie-friendly.

Leftover Stuffing Pancakes

Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a breakfast delight with these savory Leftover Stuffing Pancakes. They’re crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with all the flavors you love.

Ingredients

• 2 cups leftover stuffing
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix the leftover stuffing, eggs, flour, melted butter, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Form the stuffing mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
4. Fry the patties in the skillet for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve hot with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of cranberry sauce for an extra festive touch.

These pancakes are a clever way to enjoy the comforting taste of stuffing in a whole new form, perfect for a post-holiday brunch.

Tip: For an extra crispy exterior, let the patties sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before frying.

Stuffing and Cheese Quesadillas

Transform your leftover stuffing into a crispy, cheesy delight with these Stuffing and Cheese Quesadillas. Perfect for a quick lunch or a fun dinner twist, they’re a creative way to enjoy holiday flavors any day of the year.

Ingredients

• 2 cups prepared stuffing
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Spread 1/2 cup of stuffing over one half of each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Sprinkle 1/3 cup of cheddar cheese over the stuffing on each tortilla. Fold the tortillas in half to cover the filling.
4. Brush the outside of each quesadilla with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder and salt.
5. Cook each quesadilla in the skillet for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Remove from the skillet, let cool for a minute, then slice into wedges and serve.

The magic of these quesadillas lies in the crispy exterior giving way to a soft, savory center, making every bite a delightful contrast of textures.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, add a sprinkle of chopped green onions or a dollop of cranberry sauce inside before cooking.

Stuffing Crusted Chicken Tenders

Transform your chicken tenders into a festive feast with this Stuffing Crusted Chicken Tenders recipe, perfect for adding a crunchy, flavorful twist to your dinner rotation.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1 cup stuffing mix, finely crushed
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup melted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the crushed stuffing mix, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the stuffing mixture.
4. Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with melted butter.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden and crispy.

The magic of this recipe lies in the stuffing mix crust, which delivers a savory crunch that’s irresistibly good, making these tenders a hit for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Tip: For an extra crispy finish, broil the tenders for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.

Leftover Stuffing Soup

Transform your holiday leftovers into a comforting bowl of Leftover Stuffing Soup, a clever twist that brings new life to your favorite side dish.

Ingredients

• 4 cups leftover stuffing
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Crumble the leftover stuffing into the pot, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.
3. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes, until the soup is heated through.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

This soup stands out with its creamy texture and the savory depth of stuffing, turning what might have been an afterthought into the star of the meal.

Tip: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.

Stuffing and Turkey Empanadas

Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into something extraordinary with these Stuffing and Turkey Empanadas, a crispy handheld delight that’s bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups leftover stuffing
• 1 cup shredded cooked turkey
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 package (14 oz) pre-made empanada dough discs
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix the leftover stuffing, shredded turkey, cranberry sauce, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Place a dough disc on a flat surface, spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling onto one half, fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
4. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling, arranging the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush each empanada with the beaten egg wash for a golden finish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.

The magic of these empanadas lies in the sweet and savory combo of cranberry sauce and stuffing, encased in a flaky crust that’s irresistibly crunchy.

Tip: For an extra crunch, lightly fry the empanadas in olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side before baking.

Stuffing Fried Rice

Transform your leftover stuffing into a crave-worthy dish with this Stuffing Fried Rice, a clever twist that’s as easy as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 cups leftover stuffing
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the eggs and scramble until fully cooked, about 2 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Add the leftover stuffing and break it apart with a spatula. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly crispy.
3. Add the peas and carrots to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for 2 minutes until heated through.
4. Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet. Add 2 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp sesame oil, stirring well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
5. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.

The magic of this dish lies in the crispy edges of the stuffing, offering a delightful contrast to the soft scrambled eggs and vibrant veggies.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.

Leftover Stuffing Pizza

Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a cozy, creative meal with this Leftover Stuffing Pizza that’s as easy as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups leftover stuffing
• 1 pre-made pizza crust (12-inch)
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cooked turkey
• 1/4 cup gravy (for drizzling)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly brush the pizza crust with 1 tbsp olive oil.
2. Spread 1/2 cup cranberry sauce evenly over the crust as your pizza base.
3. Layer 1 1/2 cups leftover stuffing and 1/2 cup shredded cooked turkey on top of the cranberry sauce.
4. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese over the toppings.
5. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Remove from the oven and drizzle with 1/4 cup gravy before serving.

The magic of this pizza lies in the sweet and savory combo of cranberry sauce and stuffing, creating a flavor-packed bite that’s irresistibly comforting.

Tip: For an extra crispy crust, bake it for 5 minutes before adding the toppings.

Stuffing and Sausage Stuffed Peppers

Transform your dinner routine with these hearty Stuffing and Sausage Stuffed Peppers, a perfect blend of savory flavors and comforting textures.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers, any color
• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
• 2 cups prepared stuffing mix
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the stuffing mix, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes until everything is well combined.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the sausage and stuffing mixture, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

The crispy cheese topping and the juicy pepper create a delightful contrast that makes every bite exciting.

Tip: For an extra crunch, broil the peppers for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Stuffing Meatballs with Gravy

These stuffing meatballs with gravy are a cozy twist on two holiday favorites, combining the savory flavors of stuffing with the comfort of meatballs, all smothered in a rich gravy.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 cups prepared stuffing, cooled
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp butter

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, stuffing, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5 minutes total, then transfer to a baking sheet.
3. Bake meatballs for 15 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking continuously, until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Return the meatballs to the skillet, coating them in the gravy. Serve warm.

The stuffing in the meatballs keeps them incredibly moist, while the gravy adds a luxurious finish that’s perfect for a special dinner.

Tip: For extra flavor, use homemade stuffing or add a pinch of sage to the meatball mixture.

Leftover Stuffing Bread Pudding

Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a cozy, comforting dessert with this Leftover Stuffing Bread Pudding. It’s a clever twist that brings new life to your holiday table.

Ingredients

• 3 cups leftover stuffing
• 2 cups whole milk
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease an 8-inch square baking dish with butter.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups whole milk, 3 large eggs, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp salt until well combined.
3. Fold in 3 cups leftover stuffing and 1/2 cup raisins (if using) until the stuffing is evenly coated with the milk mixture.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and drizzle with 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter.
5. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.

The magic of this recipe lies in the savory-sweet contrast, with the stuffing’s herbs playing off the custard’s richness. It’s a delightful surprise that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Tip: For an extra indulgent touch, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Stuffing and Vegetable Stir Fry

Transform your leftover stuffing into a vibrant and hearty stir fry that’s bursting with flavors and textures. This Stuffing and Vegetable Stir Fry is a clever way to repurpose your holiday leftovers into a quick, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups leftover stuffing
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup sliced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup sliced carrots
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. Stir fry for 5 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
2. Add minced garlic and stir fry for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Push vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add leftover stuffing to the other side, breaking it apart slightly. Let it crisp up for 2 minutes without stirring.
4. Combine the vegetables and stuffing in the skillet. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil, then sprinkle with red pepper flakes. Stir fry for another 2 minutes until everything is well mixed and heated through.
5. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the crispy edges of the stuffing and the fresh crunch of the vegetables, all tied together with a savory, slightly spicy sauce.

Tip: For an extra protein boost, toss in some diced chicken or tofu during the last minute of cooking.

Stuffing Stuffed Pork Chops

These Stuffing Stuffed Pork Chops are a hearty, flavor-packed meal that turns an ordinary weeknight into something special with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops, 1-inch thick
• 1 cup dry stuffing mix
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup diced celery
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp dried sage
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. In a bowl, combine stuffing mix, chicken broth, celery, onion, melted butter, dried sage, salt, and black pepper. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Cut a pocket into each pork chop. Stuff each with 1/4 of the stuffing mixture. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
3. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Transfer skillet to the oven. Bake for 20 minutes until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. The stuffing stays moist and flavorful inside, while the pork stays juicy and tender.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the chops for the last 2 minutes of cooking.

Leftover Stuffing Tacos

Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a fun and flavorful meal with these Leftover Stuffing Tacos. They’re a creative twist that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 2 cups leftover stuffing
• 1 cup shredded cooked turkey
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 1/4 cup gravy
• 8 small flour tortillas
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover stuffing and shredded turkey, stirring occasionally, until heated through, about 5 minutes.
2. Warm the flour tortillas according to package instructions.
3. Spread a tablespoon of cranberry sauce on each tortilla, then top with the stuffing and turkey mixture.
4. Drizzle each taco with gravy and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.
5. Serve immediately, folding the tortillas around the filling to eat.

The combination of savory stuffing, sweet cranberry sauce, and rich gravy creates a taco that’s bursting with Thanksgiving flavors in every bite.

Tip: For a crispy twist, try warming the filled tacos in a skillet for a minute on each side to lightly toast the tortillas.

Stuffing and Cranberry Grilled Cheese

Transform your leftover stuffing and cranberry sauce into a cozy, melty grilled cheese that’s perfect for those post-holiday brunches.

Ingredients

• 4 slices of sourdough bread
• 1 cup leftover stuffing
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

1. Spread 1 tbsp of unsalted butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread.
2. Flip two slices over and layer each with 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of leftover stuffing, and 1/4 cup of cranberry sauce. Top with the remaining cheese and the second slice of bread, buttered side out.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
4. Remove from the skillet, let cool for a minute, then slice and serve warm.

The contrast of the crispy, buttery bread with the gooey cheese and sweet-tart cranberry sauce makes this sandwich a standout. It’s a clever way to repurpose holiday leftovers into something entirely new and exciting.

Tip: For an extra crispy exterior, press the sandwich lightly with a spatula while it cooks.

Conclusion

We hope these 18 creative leftover stuffing recipes inspire you to turn those extras into something extraordinary! Whether you’re craving comfort food or something new, there’s a dish here for everyone. Don’t forget to share your favorites in the comments and pin this article to your Pinterest board for your next culinary adventure. Happy cooking!