Stuffing balls are a fantastic side dish, especially during festive seasons like Thanksgiving or Christmas. This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional stuffing. Instead of baking stuffing in a casserole dish, we shape it into individual balls. This makes it easier to serve and gives each piece a golden, crispy crust, while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. These stuffing balls are perfect for gatherings as they’re easy to make, portioned, and packed with savory flavors that everyone will enjoy. Let’s get into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups dry bread cubes (or store-bought stuffing mix)
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 cups chicken broth (adjust as needed)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Steps to Prepare:
- Prepare the Bread Cubes:
- If you’re using fresh bread, cut it into cubes and place it in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake the cubes in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for 20-30 minutes until they are dry and crispy. This step ensures your stuffing balls have the right texture and soak up all the flavors without becoming soggy.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of butter. Add the chopped onion and celery, and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This brings out their natural sweetness and makes them tender.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried bread cubes, sautéed onions and celery, fresh parsley, dried sage, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the remaining melted butter over the mixture, followed by the chicken broth and lightly beaten eggs. Mix gently but thoroughly to ensure the bread cubes are well-coated and evenly moistened.
- Shape the Stuffing Balls:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Take a handful of the stuffing mixture and form it into a ball, about the size of a golf ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture, placing each ball about an inch apart on the baking sheet.
- Bake the Stuffing Balls:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the stuffing balls are golden brown on the outside and heated through. You may notice a slight browning on the bottom, which adds a nice crunch.
- For an extra golden crust, you can broil them for an additional 1-2 minutes, but keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the stuffing balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
These homemade stuffing balls are a wonderful addition to any holiday table or family dinner. They’re crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside, and bursting with the comforting flavors of herbs and butter. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also easy to serve and portion out, making them ideal for gatherings. Whether you’re a fan of classic stuffing or looking for a new twist on a traditional dish, these stuffing balls are sure to impress your guests. Enjoy the savory flavors and the crispy texture, and make these stuffing balls a staple in your holiday feasts!
This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor. The preparation time is minimal, and the ingredients are easy to find. These stuffing balls also make great leftovers and can be reheated the next day, retaining their texture and flavor. Give them a try, and enjoy a delicious addition to your holiday meal.