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If you’re looking for a delightful twist on a classic side, this Stuffing Balls Recipe is exactly what you need to bring comfort and joy to your table. These golden, bite-sized parcels of seasoned bread, buttery vegetables, and savory herbs offer all the deliciousness of traditional stuffing but in a perfectly portioned, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside form. Whether you’re preparing for a festive holiday feast or craving a cozy weeknight side, these stuffing balls are both easy to make and wonderfully satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to making these stuffing balls truly shine. Each element brings its own magic – from the soft, slightly dry bread cubes that soak up every flavor, to the rich butter that adds lusciousness and the fresh herbs that brighten every bite.
- 6 cups cubed day-old bread (white or whole wheat): Using day-old bread helps to soak up moisture without turning mushy, providing a perfect base texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and facilitates soft cooking of the veggies for deep flavor.
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped: Offers a mellow sweetness that balances well with herbs and spices.
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped: Brings a subtle crunch and freshness to the stuffing mix.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the stuffing with a gentle, warming aroma.
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning: A classic blend of herbs that lends a familiar, comforting taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy herbaceous note that complements the butter and bread perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the savory profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle hint of heat that lifts the dish.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the stuffing mixture together for forming into balls that hold their shape during baking.
- 1 to 1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the mixture moist and flavorful without overwhelming the other tastes.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh burst of color and brightness for garnish.
How to Make Stuffing Balls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Flavor Base
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and celery. Cook them gently until they soften and become translucent, usually about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds the foundational flavor profile that’s rich and inviting.
Step 2: Add the Seasonings
Next, stir in the minced garlic along with the poultry seasoning, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook the mixture for another minute to allow the herbs and spices to release their fragrances and deepen the vegetable base’s flavor. This aromatic mix will marry flawlessly with the bread cubes in the next step.
Step 3: Combine with Bread Cubes
Transfer the bread cubes into a large mixing bowl and pour the warm vegetable mixture over them. Toss everything gently to coat the bread evenly, letting it soak in that buttery, herby goodness. This is where simple ingredients start transforming into magic.
Step 4: Bind the Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs with 1 cup of chicken broth to create a binding liquid. Pour this over the bread mixture, then mix gently to moisten the bread until it holds together when squeezed. If the mix feels dry, add a splash more broth. Achieving the right consistency is key to forming perfect stuffing balls that won’t crumble.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Form the mixture into 12 to 14 golf ball-sized balls and place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown on the outside with a slight crispness, while remaining tender inside. A satisfying crunch with every bite makes these stuffing balls irresistibly good.
How to Serve Stuffing Balls Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the hot stuffing balls just before serving for a splash of vibrant green and a subtle herbal freshness that brightens every bite. A light drizzle of gravy or a pat of melting butter on top can add extra decadence, perfect for holiday meals or casual dinners alike.
Side Dishes
These stuffing balls pair beautifully with roasted turkey or chicken for a classic festive plate. Complement them with sautéed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp garden salad to balance the richness and add fresh textures. They also stand strong alongside creamy mashed potatoes or tangy cranberry sauce for that perfect harmony of flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these stuffing balls atop a bed of leafy greens and drizzle with a light gravy or cranberry glaze. You could also skewer smaller versions as party appetizers, offering bite-sized comfort food that guests can enjoy with ease. The possibilities are endless — these versatile stuffing balls can bring joy to any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for enjoying as a quick side to your meals or for transforming into new dishes.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze these stuffing balls for longer storage. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months without losing their delightful texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, simply bake the stuffing balls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through and slightly crisp on the outside again. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that lovely baked texture.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free bread for this Stuffing Balls Recipe?
Absolutely! Using gluten-free bread cubes works well, just ensure it’s slightly dry or toasted beforehand so the texture holds up properly when mixed and baked.
Is it possible to make these stuffing balls vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and replace the eggs with a flax or chia egg mix. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the recipe vegan-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
Can I add meat to the stuffing balls?
Definitely! Cooked sausage, bacon, or shredded chicken can be mixed into the base mixture before shaping the balls for an extra hearty and flavorful option.
How do I make sure the stuffing balls don’t fall apart?
Getting the right texture is key — the bread should be well moistened but not soggy, and the eggs act as an excellent binder. If your mixture feels too dry, add more broth until it holds together when squeezed gently.
Are stuffing balls suitable for freezing and reheating?
Yes, one of the best things about this Stuffing Balls Recipe is that it freezes beautifully. Just bake when fresh or freeze for later, then reheat in the oven for that perfectly crispy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Stuffing Balls Recipe is a true winner for bringing warmth, comfort, and easy elegance to your meals. They’re simple enough for weeknight dinners yet charming enough to elevate holiday spreads. I can’t wait for you to give them a try and experience how these little balls of savory goodness can make any gathering more memorable!
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Print
Stuffing Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12–14 stuffing balls
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously golden and crispy on the outside, these stuffing balls feature savory herbs, sautéed vegetables, and tender bread cubes baked to perfection. Perfect as a Thanksgiving side or accompaniment to roast chicken, they can be prepared ahead and reheated for convenience.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups cubed day-old bread (white or whole wheat)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 to 1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare baking sheet: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Sauté the vegetables: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and celery, cooking them until they soften, about 5–7 minutes. This step helps bring out their natural sweetness and flavor.
- Add seasoning and garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, poultry seasoning, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook everything together for another minute to toast the spices and infuse the mixture.
- Combine bread and vegetable mixture: Place the cubed bread into a large mixing bowl, then pour the warm vegetable mixture atop it. Toss gently to coat the bread evenly with the buttery herb mixture.
- Add eggs and broth: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth. Pour this liquid over the bread mix and gently mix until the bread is moistened and holds shape when squeezed. Add the remaining broth a little at a time if the mixture is too dry.
- Form stuffing balls: Shape the mixture into 12 to 14 golf ball-sized balls, ensuring they hold together well but aren’t packed too tightly. Place them spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake until golden: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes in the preheated oven until the stuffing balls are golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and optionally sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving warm as a perfect side dish.
Notes
- Perfect as a Thanksgiving side or to serve alongside roast chicken.
- You can prepare stuffing balls ahead of time and reheat them in the oven before serving.
- For a heartier version, add cooked sausage to the mixture before forming balls.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.
