As the holiday season approaches, I can’t help but feel a wave of gratitude for the simple yet meaningful traditions we share with our loved ones. One of those cherished traditions in my family is the art of making stuffing—warm, comforting, and oh-so-delicious! And this year, I’ve decided to give our usual stuffing a fun twist by turning it into bite-sized, savory stuffing balls. These golden-brown gems are not only easy to make, but they also add a touch of creativity to your holiday spread.
Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or simply looking to elevate your family dinner, these stuffing balls are a surefire hit. If you’re interested in adding this recipe to your holiday repertoire, why not subscribe to receive it directly in your inbox?
Why You’ll Love These Savory Stuffing Balls
These stuffing balls are everything you love about traditional stuffing, but in a portable, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside form. The blend of aromatic herbs like sage and thyme, paired with the savory goodness of sautéed onions and celery, makes each bite irresistibly flavorful. The best part? They’re incredibly versatile, making them perfect as a side dish, an appetizer, or even a main course for a cozy family dinner.
What Do They Taste Like?
Imagine the comforting flavors of classic stuffing—the buttery richness, the fragrant herbs, and the subtle hint of garlic—all packed into a bite-sized morsel. The exterior bakes to a delightful crispiness, while the inside remains soft and moist, thanks to the chicken broth and eggs. The combination is pure holiday magic, with each stuffing ball delivering a burst of savory flavors that will have your guests reaching for more.
Benefits of These Stuffing Balls
- Portion-Controlled: Easy to serve and enjoy without the mess of scooping traditional stuffing.
- Versatile: Great as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack for holiday gatherings.
- Kid-Friendly: Perfect for little hands and picky eaters who might shy away from larger servings.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare them in advance and simply reheat before serving, making holiday meal prep a breeze.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 8 cups bread cubes, dried: The base of our stuffing, offering structure and texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sautéed vegetables.
- 1 large onion, finely chopped: Provides a sweet and savory foundation.
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped: Adds a fresh crunch.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with a hint of freshness.
- 1 teaspoon dried sage: Essential for that classic stuffing flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Pairs perfectly with sage for an aromatic touch.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick.
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth: Keeps the stuffing moist and flavorful.
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten: Helps bind the mixture together.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet: For sautéing the vegetables.
- Large mixing bowl: To combine all the ingredients.
- Baking sheet: For baking the stuffing balls.
- Parchment paper: To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Combine the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with the bread cubes, fresh parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Gradually stir in the chicken broth, mixing well to ensure the bread cubes absorb the liquid. Add the lightly beaten eggs and mix until fully combined.
3. Form the Balls
Shape the mixture into balls, about the size of a golf ball, and place them on a greased baking sheet. If you’re feeling fancy, you can brush them with a bit of melted butter for extra crispiness.
4. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside. The smell when these are in the oven is incredible—it’ll have everyone gathering in the kitchen!
Serving Suggestions
These savory stuffing balls are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside your holiday turkey or roast, or even as a standalone dish with a side of cranberry sauce or gravy. They also make a great appetizer when served with a dipping sauce.
Tips for Making the Perfect Stuffing Balls
- Use dried bread cubes: This helps the bread absorb the liquid without becoming too soggy.
- Don’t overmix: Mix the ingredients just until combined to avoid a dense texture.
- Customize the herbs: Feel free to adjust the herbs to your taste, or even add a pinch of rosemary for an extra flavor boost.
- Make them ahead: Prepare the stuffing balls a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake them fresh before serving.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also freeze them for up to a month—just thaw and reheat in the oven when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh bread instead of dried? It’s best to use dried bread cubes for this recipe, as they absorb the liquid more effectively, resulting in a better texture. If using fresh bread, you can dry it out in the oven beforehand.
Can I make these stuffing balls vegetarian? Absolutely! Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make these vegetarian-friendly.
What other herbs can I use? Feel free to experiment with herbs like rosemary, marjoram, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Conclusion
These savory stuffing balls are not only a fun twist on a classic dish, but they also offer a flavorful and convenient way to enjoy stuffing. Their crispy exterior and moist, tender interior make them a delightful addition to any holiday meal. So why not give them a try? Your taste buds—and your guests—will thank you!
Looking for more holiday recipes? Check out these delightful Peach and Cranberry Glazed Ham or Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes. And don’t forget to share your creations—tag me on Pinterest with your stuffing ball photos!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Happy cooking, and here’s to a deliciously festive holiday season!
