Stuffing Balls: A Perfect Side Dish for Any Occasion
Stuffing balls are a delightful twist on traditional stuffing—a staple side dish during holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas. Shaped into compact, flavorful spheres, stuffing balls offer a perfect balance of crispiness on the outside and a moist, savory center. They’re easy to make, portion-friendly, and ideal for serving with roast meats or vegetarian mains.
Whether you’re preparing a festive feast or simply looking for a delicious new side, stuffing balls are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need for about 12 stuffing balls:
- 6 cups of day-old bread (cubed, any type: white, sourdough, or whole grain)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon rosemary (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- ¾ to 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: ½ cup grated Parmesan or cooked crumbled sausage for extra flavor
Tip: If adding cheese or sausage, fold it in at this stage.
Step 4: Form the Balls
Once the mixture is well combined:
- Use clean hands or a scoop to form golf ball-sized stuffing balls (about 2 inches in diameter).
- Pack them firmly but gently to help them hold their shape.
Step 5: Bake
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Arrange the stuffing balls with some space between each one.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp on the outside.
🔄 Optional: For extra crispiness, lightly brush the tops with melted butter before baking.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Stuffing balls go perfectly with roast turkey, chicken, or pork, and they make a great vegetarian side dish too. Serve them with gravy, cranberry sauce, or even on a bed of greens.
💡 Variations & Tips
- Vegan Option: Use olive oil instead of butter, skip the egg, and replace broth with a vegan variety.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread for a celiac-friendly version.
- Add-ins: Dried cranberries, chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts), or apples can add a sweet crunch.
🧊 Storing and Reheating
- To Store: Keep leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- To Freeze: Place cooled stuffing balls in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months.
- To Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until heated through.
Final Thoughts
Stuffing balls are an elegant and easy upgrade from the classic casserole-style stuffing. They’re perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a weeknight dinner when you’re craving something cozy and comforting. Plus, they’re easy to customize and great for prepping ahead.
Try them once, and they might just become your new favorite side dish!
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