If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate comforting side dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal, this Stuffing Balls Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine crispy, golden-brown bites bursting with savory herbs, buttery richness, and that classic home-style stuffing taste, all rolled into perfectly portioned balls. Whether you’re serving a holiday feast or just want to elevate a weeknight dinner, these stuffing balls are guaranteed to steal the show and satisfy every craving.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Stuffing Balls Recipe is in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of moisture, texture, and flavor that makes these balls irresistible.
- 4 cups dry stuffing mix: The base that provides the classic herb-infused flavor and soft texture once moistened.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory moisture that brings the stuffing mix to life without sogginess.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Enriches the mixture and helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior.
- 2 eggs, beaten: Acts as a binder to hold the balls together during baking.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped: Offers a fresh crunch and whimsy contrast to the softness.
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning: A fragrant blend that enhances the overall savory profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors in every bite.
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: Adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness right before serving.
How to Make Stuffing Balls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
Start off by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the stuffing balls don’t stick and bake evenly without any fuss when it’s time to remove them.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the dry stuffing mix and slowly add chicken broth and melted butter. Stir gently until the mixture is nicely moistened but not overly wet. Then, incorporate the beaten eggs along with finely chopped onion, celery, poultry seasoning, and your preferred amount of salt and pepper. Mix everything until it forms a cohesive, slightly sticky mixture that’s ready to be shaped.
Step 3: Form Balls
Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized portions with clean hands. Try to keep them uniform so they bake evenly. Place each ball carefully on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for even heat circulation.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the stuffing balls are beautifully golden on the outside and firm to the touch. The aroma alone will have you counting down the minutes.
Step 5: Cool and Garnish
Once baked, take the stuffing balls out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This resting time helps them set perfectly. Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and an herbaceous lift.
How to Serve Stuffing Balls Recipe
Garnishes
Simple yet effective garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a drizzle of melted butter take these stuffing balls from delicious to dazzling. You can also experiment with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dash of smoked paprika for added flair.
Side Dishes
These stuffing balls pair beautifully with classic mains like roasted turkey, baked chicken, or pork chops. For a vibrant contrast, serve alongside steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh crisp salad to balance the savory richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these stuffing balls as party appetizers on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces like cranberry chutney, creamy mustard, or tangy gravy. For a fun twist, stuff them with bits of cheese or cooked sausage before baking to surprise your guests with a gooey or savory center.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve got leftovers (though these stuffing balls rarely stick around too long), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep their crispy exterior intact.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze these for a quick fix later. Place the baked stuffing balls on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making meal prep a breeze.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the stuffing balls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps bring back their crispiness much better than the microwave.
FAQs
Can I make these stuffing balls vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken broth for a rich vegetable broth, and you’ll have a vegetarian version that’s just as flavorful.
Can I use leftover stuffing to make these balls?
Yes, leftover stuffing works great. Just be sure it’s not too dry—add a splash of broth or melted butter to help bind the mixture before shaping.
Is it possible to add meat to the stuffing balls?
For sure! Cooked sausage or diced cooked chicken can be folded in before shaping to add extra protein and flavor complexity.
How do I prevent the stuffing balls from falling apart?
Using eggs as a binder and making sure the mixture isn’t too dry or too wet are key. The mixture should hold together well but not be sticky to the point it’s mushy.
Can I bake these in advance?
Yes, you can bake ahead of time and warm them up just before serving. This is handy for holiday meals and entertaining.
Final Thoughts
This Stuffing Balls Recipe has quickly become a beloved classic in my kitchen, and I’m confident it will earn a special place on your table too. With its comforting flavors, satisfying texture, and versatile serving options, these little bites are bound to become a crowd-pleaser. Give them a try and get ready to hear everyone ask for a second helping!
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 savory stuffing balls are a delicious and easy side dish perfect for holiday meals or any cozy dinner. Made with dry stuffing mix, chicken broth, butter, and aromatic vegetables, they are baked to a golden brown perfection, offering a crispy outside and a flavorful, tender inside. Garnished with fresh parsley, they add a festive touch to your table.
Ingredients
Stuffing Mix
- 4 cups dry stuffing mix
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 eggs, beaten
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
Garnish
- 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 bowl, mix the dry stuffing mix with the chicken broth and melted butter until the mixture is thoroughly moistened. Add the beaten eggs, finely chopped onion, celery, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir all ingredients well until fully combined.
- Form Balls: Take portions of the stuffing mixture and shape them into golf ball-sized balls. Place these balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to allow for even cooking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the stuffing balls for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and feel firm when gently pressed.
- Serve: Remove the stuffing balls from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving to add a vibrant color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a milder flavor.
- For a crispier texture, you can broil the stuffing balls for the last 2 minutes of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet to help the stuffing balls bake evenly and become crispy.
- These stuffing balls can be made a day ahead and reheated in the oven for freshness.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and check the stuffing mix ingredients to ensure it is vegetarian-friendly.
