If you’ve ever wanted a fun, bite-sized twist on classic holiday stuffing, this Stuffing Balls Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside, these little delights capture all the comforting flavors you love – from savory herbs and buttery richness to the subtle crunch of celery and onion – and turn them into cute, convenient handheld bites. Whether you’re serving a crowd or craving a snack, these stuffing balls bring joy and a little festive magic to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Stuffing Balls Recipe shines because it uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create a perfect balance of taste, texture, and aroma. Each ingredient adds its own special touch to make sure every bite feels cozy and delicious.
- 4 cups dry stuffing mix: Provides the essential hearty base and classic stuffing texture.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and a savory depth for tender stuffing balls.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Boosts richness with a smooth, luscious mouthfeel.
- 2 eggs, beaten: Acts as a binding agent to keep the stuffing balls together perfectly.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Infuses a touch of sweetness and mild sharpness for flavor complexity.
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped: Adds refreshing crunch and subtle earthiness.
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning: Brings that signature blend of herbs that makes stuffing so irresistible.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances every flavor note without overpowering.
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: Brightens and adds a pop of color for a pretty presentation.
How to Make Stuffing Balls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the stuffing balls from sticking. This simple prep step ensures easy cleanup and perfect browning.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the dry stuffing mix with the chicken broth and melted butter until the mixture is nicely moistened. The broth brings the stuffing to life while the butter adds a rich silkiness. Next, add the beaten eggs, finely chopped onion and celery, poultry seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it all together until fully combined and you have a delightful fragrant mixture ready to shape.
Step 3: Form Balls
Grab handfuls of the mixture and roll them gently into golf ball-sized portions. This size is ideal for even baking and the perfect bite. Arrange the balls on your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one to allow uniform crisping.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden Brown
Bake your stuffing balls in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a gorgeous golden brown on the outside and feel firm but springy to the touch. This baking step seals in the flavors and creates that irresistible outer crunch.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, allow the stuffing balls to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish that not only looks stunning but adds a subtle herbaceous kick.
How to Serve Stuffing Balls Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic, light garnish that elevates the rustic look of these stuffing balls. For an extra twist, try sprinkling a bit of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of browned butter to deepen the flavors and add a decadent touch.
Side Dishes
Stuffing balls make a wonderful side for roasted turkey or chicken. Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted root vegetables for a well-rounded feast that feels both traditional and fun. They also shine alongside a crisp green salad for a lighter meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests, consider serving these stuffing balls in mini muffin tins or on skewers with cranberry sauce dollops for a festive appetizer platter. They’re super adaptable and perfect for holiday parties or cozy family dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover stuffing balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them chilled helps maintain their shape and flavor while allowing easy grab-and-go snacking.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, these stuffing balls freeze beautifully. 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 up to 2 months and remain just as delicious.
Reheating
To reheat, bake the frozen or refrigerated stuffing balls at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and crisp again. You can also reheat in a toaster oven for a quicker method that revives their original texture perfectly.
FAQs
Can I make Stuffing Balls Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and ensure your stuffing mix does not contain any meat-based ingredients. This swap keeps everything flavorful and meat-free.
Are stuffing balls gluten-free?
Traditional stuffing mix usually contains gluten, but you can find gluten-free stuffing mixes at many stores now. Using one of those will make your stuffing balls friendly for gluten-sensitive guests.
Can I add other vegetables or extras?
Yes! Feel free to add cooked mushrooms, diced apples, or even cranberries for a sweet contrast. Just be careful not to add too much moisture to keep the mixture firm enough for shaping.
How do I make the stuffing balls crispier?
For an extra crispy exterior, try brushing the balls lightly with melted butter before baking or baking a little longer while keeping an eye to prevent burning. A light spray of oil can also help.
What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftover stuffing balls are fantastic sliced in half and pan-fried for a golden crust or crumbled into soups as a crunchy topping. They’re versatile and delicious cold or reheated.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about making and sharing this Stuffing Balls Recipe, a fun and tasty twist that honors tradition while exciting the palate. Whether you bring them to holiday gatherings or enjoy them as a cozy family treat, these stuffing balls promise comfort, flavor, and plenty of smiles. Give them a try – your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Stuffing Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These delicious Stuffing Balls are a perfect savory side dish or appetizer, combining classic stuffing flavors into easy-to-eat, golden-baked bites. Made with dry stuffing mix, chicken broth, butter, and aromatic vegetables, they bake to a crisp exterior with a moist, flavorful center.
Ingredients
Stuffing Balls Ingredients
- 4 cups dry stuffing mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the stuffing balls from sticking during baking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry stuffing mix with the chicken broth and melted butter, stirring until the mixture is moistened evenly. Add the beaten eggs, finely chopped onion, celery, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form Balls: Take portions of the mixture and shape them into golf ball-sized balls. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave space between them so they bake evenly.
- Bake: Bake the stuffing balls in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and feel firm to the touch.
- Serve: Once baked, remove the stuffing balls from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a fresh herbal note and attractive presentation.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- You can prepare the mixture ahead and refrigerate before baking to save time.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper, depending on the stuffing mix used.
- These stuffing balls make a great party appetizer or a tasty side dish for holidays like Thanksgiving.
- Leftover stuffing balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
