Turkey & Stuffing Muffin Cups: Easy Leftover Turkey Appetizers

Transforming holiday leftovers into something new and exciting just got a whole lot easier with these delicious Turkey & Stuffing Muffin Cups.

This recipe takes your extra turkey and stuffing and reimagines them into convenient, bite-sized appetizers or a quick, satisfying meal. It’s a fantastic way to extend the life of your festive feast without serving the same old plate.

These individual turkey stuffing cups are not only incredibly flavorful but also incredibly practical. Perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something comforting but don’t have much time, or as a crowd-plepleasing appetizer for your next gathering. Get ready to discover how simple it is to create these delightful morsels.

Turkey & Stuffing Muffin Cups

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• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Yield: 12 muffin cups 1x

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Description

Transform holiday leftovers into delicious, bite-sized appetizers or a quick meal with these easy Turkey & Stuffing Muffin Cups. This recipe repurposes cooked turkey and stuffing into convenient, flavorful individual servings, perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated crescent rolls

1 1/2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced

1 1/2 cups prepared stuffing

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/4 cup cranberry sauce (optional, for serving or mixing in)

2 tablespoons melted butter

Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375 F (190 C). Lightly grease a 12-cup standard muffin tin with cooking spray or butter.

2. Open the can of crescent rolls and unroll the dough. Gently separate the triangles along the perforations.

3. Take each crescent roll triangle and press it firmly into the bottom and up the sides of each greased muffin cup. The wider end should form the base, and the point should extend slightly over the rim. Pinch any seams together to create a solid cup.

4. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded or diced cooked turkey and the prepared stuffing. Pour in the chicken broth and mix gently until everything is well combined and the stuffing is moist but not soggy. If using, stir in the cranberry sauce now. Season with salt and black pepper to your liking.

5. Spoon the turkey and stuffing mixture evenly into each crescent roll-lined muffin cup. Do not overfill; aim for a level scoop that sits nicely within the dough.

6. In a small bowl, melt the butter. Lightly brush the tops of the filled muffin cups with the melted butter. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and the filling is heated through.

7. Once baked, carefully remove the muffin tin from the oven. Let the muffin cups cool in the tin for a few minutes before gently removing them. Serve warm.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Category: main dish
• Method: baking
• Cuisine: american

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 muffin cup

Keywords: leftovers, turkey, stuffing, muffin cups, appetizer, easy, holiday, comfort food, quick, savory

What You’ll Love About This Quick And Easy Recipe

This recipe is a true winner for several reasons, making it a staple in any family kitchen. First, it’s incredibly efficient, turning what might otherwise go to waste—your leftover turkey and stuffing—into a brand new dish. This not only saves food but also saves you time and money. It’s perfect for busy parents or anyone looking for a smart way to manage post-holiday food. Second, the individual muffin cup format is inherently appealing, especially to kids. They’re easy to pick up, fun to eat, and perfectly portioned, making them ideal for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or a casual dinner. Finally, these turkey and stuffing muffin cups are remarkably versatile. They can serve as a light lunch, a hearty appetizer for a party, or even a simple dinner when paired with a side salad. The comfort food factor is high, delivering all the familiar flavors of a holiday meal in a convenient, handheld package.

Everything You Need To Make This Recipe Without Stress

Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is straightforward, as it relies on common pantry staples and, of course, your delicious leftovers. You won’t need any obscure items, which helps keep the process stress-free and accessible for any home cook. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the way it repurposes what you already have on hand.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated crescent rolls
• 1 ½ cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
• 1 ½ cups prepared stuffing
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup cranberry sauce (optional, for serving or mixing in)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Salt and black pepper to taste

When it comes to substitutions, feel free to adapt based on what you have. If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth works just as well. For the turkey, any cooked poultry will do, so if you have leftover chicken, that’s a perfectly acceptable swap. The cranberry sauce is entirely optional; some prefer to mix a little into the stuffing for a sweet and tangy note, while others prefer it as a dip on the side. If you’re out of crescent rolls, you could experiment with puff pastry sheets, though the texture will be a bit different. For seasoning, a pinch of poultry seasoning or dried sage can enhance the “holiday” flavor if your stuffing is on the milder side.

Time Needed From Start To Finish

One of the best aspects of this recipe is how quickly it comes together, making it an ideal choice for those moments when you need a delicious meal or snack without a lot of fuss.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 15-20 minutes
• Total time: 30-35 minutes

This efficient timeline means you can go from fridge to table in well under an hour, providing a satisfying and comforting dish without taking up your entire evening.

How To Make It Step By Step With Visual Cues

Creating these turkey and stuffing muffin cups is a breeze. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time.

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Muffin Tin: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup standard muffin tin with cooking spray or butter. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of your finished cups.
2. Unroll the Crescent Dough: Open the can of crescent rolls and unroll the dough. You’ll notice perforations that divide the dough into triangles. Gently separate these triangles.
3. Create the Muffin Cup Base: Take each crescent roll triangle and press it firmly into the bottom and up the sides of each greased muffin cup. The wider end of the triangle should form the base, and the point should extend slightly over the rim. Pinch any seams together to create a solid cup.
4. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded or diced cooked turkey and the prepared stuffing. Pour in the chicken broth and mix gently until everything is well combined and the stuffing is moist but not soggy. If using, stir in the cranberry sauce now. Season with salt and black pepper to your liking.
5. Fill the Crescent Cups: Spoon the turkey and stuffing mixture evenly into each crescent roll-lined muffin cup. Don’t overfill them; aim for a level scoop that sits nicely within the dough.
6. Brush and Bake: In a small bowl, melt the butter. Lightly brush the tops of the filled muffin cups with the melted butter. This will help them brown beautifully and add a rich flavor. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and the filling is heated through.
7. Cool and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the muffin tin from the oven. Let the muffin cups cool in the tin for a few minutes before gently removing them. This helps them firm up and prevents them from falling apart. Serve warm.

Easy Variations And Serving Ideas That Fit Real Life

These turkey and stuffing muffin cups are wonderfully adaptable, making them perfect for various occasions and tastes.

For a kid-friendly twist, you can add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top of the filling before baking. The melted cheese creates a delicious, gooey layer that most children adore. You could also serve them with a side of ketchup or a mild barbecue sauce for dipping, which often makes meals more appealing to younger palates.

If you want to elevate them for a party or buffet, consider adding finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives to the filling for a burst of freshness. A dollop of homemade gravy or a spoonful of extra cranberry sauce on the side makes for an elegant presentation. For a spicier kick, a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes in the filling can add a subtle warmth.

Serving ideas are plentiful. As an appetizer, arrange them on a platter with small bowls of dipping sauces like cranberry sauce, gravy, or even a creamy herb dip. For a light lunch or dinner, pair them with a simple green salad dressed with a vinaigrette. They also make a fantastic addition to a brunch spread or a casual potluck. You can even pack them cold in lunchboxes, as they are just as tasty at room temperature.

Common Slip-Ups And How To Avoid Them

Even simple recipes can have a few pitfalls. Knowing these common mistakes will help you achieve perfect turkey and stuffing muffin cups every time.

One frequent issue is overfilling the muffin cups. If you put too much filling in, the crescent roll dough can struggle to contain it, leading to messy spills and uneven baking. Aim for a level scoop of filling that fits comfortably within the dough cup, leaving a little room for expansion.

Another common mistake is not greasing the muffin tin properly. While crescent rolls have some fat, they can still stick, especially if the cups are overfilled or baked too long. A good coating of cooking spray or butter ensures easy release and keeps your muffin cups looking neat and intact.

Overbaking is another pitfall. If the muffin cups bake for too long, the crescent dough can become dry and hard, and the filling might dry out. Keep an eye on them, and remove them from the oven as soon as the crescent rolls are golden brown and the filling is heated through, typically around 15-20 minutes.

Finally, not letting them cool slightly in the tin before removing them can cause them to fall apart. The dough needs a few minutes to set and firm up once out of the hot oven. Patience for just 3-5 minutes will make a big difference in their structural integrity.

How To Store It And Make It Ahead Without Ruining Texture

These turkey and stuffing muffin cups are fantastic for making ahead or storing for later enjoyment, making meal prep a breeze.

To store any leftovers, allow them to cool completely to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb any excess moisture, helping to maintain their texture.

For reheating, the oven is your best friend to restore their crispy exterior. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the muffin cups on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the crescent dough is slightly crisp again. You can also reheat them in a microwave for a quicker option, but be aware that the dough might become a bit softer. Microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until hot.

If you want to **make them

FAQs

• Can I make these ahead? Yes—prep ahead, refrigerate, then serve when ready.
• How long do leftovers last? Store covered in the fridge for 3–4 days for best texture.
• Can I adjust sweetness? Yes—add more or less sweetener to taste.
• Can I change the fruit? Yes—swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or sliced banana.