If you’re looking to shake up your holiday spread or cozy Sunday dinners, this Stuffing Balls Recipe is absolutely the way to do it! Imagine all the crave-worthy flavors of classic stuffing—plenty of herbs, golden bread, and that irresistible buttery aroma—packaged into perfectly crisp, individual servings. They’re deliciously moist inside, slightly crunchy outside, and are guaranteed to disappear fast at any get-together. Not only do these stuffing balls bake up beautifully, but they’re also so easy to make ahead. Once you try them, you’ll wonder how you ever celebrated without them!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple, using only the most essential ingredients for stuffing perfection. Each brings something special to the overall taste, texture, or golden hue—don’t skip a single one!
- 6 cups cubed day-old bread: Use white or sourdough for body and that signature stuffing flavor—day-old bread absorbs the liquid best!
- 1 cup onion (finely chopped): Adds natural sweetness and essential depth to every bite.
- 1 cup celery (finely chopped): Brings pop, crunch, and an earthy, aromatic backbone to the mix.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Classic richness—melts into every nook and cranny for big flavor.
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning: The secret blend for that iconic stuffing aroma; don’t hold back!
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts savory notes without overpowering—just right for balance.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Pulls all the flavors together; adjust to taste if you like.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: A touch of warmth and sharpness—freshly cracked if possible!
- 2 large eggs (beaten): Acts as the binder, keeping each stuffing ball perfectly together.
- 1½ cups chicken or vegetable broth: Moistens the bread and infuses more flavor—vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped): The finishing touch! Adds herby color and a burst of freshness at the end.
How to Make Stuffing Balls Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then toss in the onions and celery. Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until they’re soft, translucent, and your kitchen smells simply incredible. This step builds the base of your Stuffing Balls Recipe, adding a mellow sweetness and a touch of crunch.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Grab your biggest mixing bowl and add the cubed day-old bread. Pile in the sautéed onion and celery (but don’t forget all those buttery bits from the pan!), then sprinkle in the poultry seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything until that gorgeous aroma is evenly distributed throughout.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Broth
Pour in the beaten eggs and slowly add the broth, mixing until all the bread is moistened but not soggy. The mixture should just come together—if it’s too wet, toss in a bit more bread. Let it all soak for about five minutes; this little pause ensures maximum flavor absorption and the perfect consistency for shaping.
Step 4: Form the Balls
Once the bread mixture has cooled ever-so-slightly and absorbed the broth, use your hands or a scoop to form it into golf ball-sized rounds. Place them evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a bit of space so the heat can work its magic and crisp up their sides.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide your pan into a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for beautifully browned, lightly crisp outsides, and steamy, moist centers. When you see those golden exteriors, you’ll know the Stuffing Balls Recipe has reached its holiday-best potential.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Parsley
Straight from the oven, sprinkle your stuffing balls with chopped fresh parsley. This final flourish adds brightness and an herbal lift, making each serving look and taste extra special. Serve warm—and prepare for compliments!
How to Serve Stuffing Balls Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing sets off the herby, savory flavors like a sprinkle of fresh parsley just before serving. For a pop of color or a special occasion, try a dusting of grated Parmesan or a few curls of lemon zest on top. If you love some crunch, toasted pecans or walnuts offer a delicious twist.
Side Dishes
The Stuffing Balls Recipe goes wonderfully with all your holiday favorites—think roast turkey, glazed ham, or grilled tofu for vegetarians. Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, green beans, or a tangy cranberry sauce to create a festive, well-rounded plate that everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
These stuffing balls make stunning individual servings! For a gathering, pile them high on a tray with fresh herbs tucked between for a rustic centerpiece. Slide them onto party skewers, serve alongside mini gravy pots for dipping, or present in cute muffin liners for a picnic or potluck vibe—there’s no limit to your creativity with the Stuffing Balls Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the stuffing balls cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to four days without losing their flavor or texture.
Freezing
One of the best features of the Stuffing Balls Recipe is how well it freezes! Arrange the cooled balls on a tray to freeze individually, then move them to a zip-top bag once they’re solid. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to two months, making them a fantastic make-ahead side for busy weeks.
Reheating
To reheat, arrange the stuffing balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, cover lightly with foil, and warm at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. For a little extra crispness, uncover for the last few minutes. They’ll be just as delicious as fresh out of the oven!
FAQs
Can I make the Stuffing Balls Recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free bread. The process is otherwise the same and you’ll still get that dreamy combination of a moist center and crispy crust.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
The Stuffing Balls Recipe is vegetarian-friendly when you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You’ll get all the classic flavor and texture without any animal products.
Can I add sausage or other meats?
Yes! For extra heartiness, add crumbled cooked sausage, bacon bits, or diced ham to the bread mix. Simply fold them in right after adding the sautéed vegetables—just be sure to adjust the seasoning as needed.
What if I don’t have day-old bread?
No problem. Simply cube fresh bread and toast the pieces in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, until dry but not browned. This helps them soak up the broth without turning mushy.
How do I keep the stuffing balls from falling apart?
Binding is all about the right ratio of eggs and broth to bread. If your mix seems too loose, add extra bread cubes. Letting the mixture sit for five minutes before shaping helps the liquid absorb, making it easier to form sturdy, golden balls.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a new tradition that’s both comforting and so much fun to serve, this Stuffing Balls Recipe is sure to be your go-to. It’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive for holiday feasts, and every bite brings cozy flavors and happy memories. Give it a try and share the love—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
