Stuffing Balls Recipe

Storage Options

Store cooled stuffing balls in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in airtight containers. For longer storage, freeze completely cooled stuffing balls for up to 3 months in freezer-safe bags or containers. To reheat refrigerated stuffing balls, bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until heated through. For frozen stuffing balls, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or bake directly from frozen at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until hot throughout.

Summary

This Stuffing Balls Recipe creates perfectly portioned, golden-brown spheres of traditional stuffing that deliver exceptional flavor and texture in every bite. The recipe combines classic bread stuffing ingredients formed into individual balls and baked until crispy outside and tender inside. Each stuffing ball provides the ideal ratio of crusty exterior to moist, flavorful center, eliminating the texture inconsistencies often found in traditional pan stuffing. The recipe serves 6-8 people and takes approximately 45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for holiday entertaining.

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large baking sheet
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Cookie scoop or ice cream scoop (optional)
• Wire cooling rack

Ingredients

• 8 cups day-old bread cubes (preferably white or sourdough)
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 3 celery stalks, finely diced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the day-old bread cubes in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Add the chopped sage, thyme, salt, and pepper to the saucepan, stirring for another minute until the herbs are fragrant.
5. Pour the vegetable mixture over the bread cubes and toss gently to combine.
6. Gradually add the chicken broth, mixing gently until the bread is moistened but not soggy. The mixture should hold together when squeezed but not be dripping wet.
7. Add the beaten eggs and fresh parsley, mixing until evenly distributed throughout the stuffing mixture.
8. Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into balls about 2-3 inches in diameter, placing them on the prepared baking sheet with space between each ball.
9. Drizzle the stuffing balls lightly with olive oil to promote golden browning.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
11. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a serving platter.

Notes

The key to successful stuffing balls lies in achieving the right moisture balance in your mixture. The stuffing should be moist enough to hold together when formed into balls but not so wet that it becomes mushy. Day-old bread works best because it absorbs the liquid without becoming soggy. If your bread is fresh, you can dry it out in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes before using. The size of your stuffing balls affects cooking time, so adjust accordingly if making larger or smaller portions.

Tips for Success

Start with slightly stale bread for better texture and absorption. Test the moisture level by squeezing a handful of the mixture – it should hold together without being wet. Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizing and professional presentation. Don’t overmix the stuffing once you add the eggs, as this can make the balls dense. Allow the stuffing balls to rest for 10 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape better. Brush with melted butter halfway through baking for extra golden color and rich flavor.

Additional Tips and Variations

Transform your basic Stuffing Balls Recipe by adding 1/2 cup dried cranberries and 1/4 cup chopped pecans for a festive twist. For a savory upgrade, incorporate 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon or breakfast sausage. Create a Mediterranean version by adding sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, and fresh basil instead of traditional herbs. For gluten-free options, substitute gluten-free bread cubes and ensure your broth is gluten-free certified. Make mini appetizer-sized balls for parties by forming 1-inch portions and reducing baking time to 15-20 minutes. Add grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness and flavor depth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make stuffing balls ahead of time? Yes, you can form the stuffing balls up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them covered. Bake directly from the refrigerator, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time.

What if my stuffing mixture is too dry? Add broth gradually, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture holds together when squeezed. Be careful not to add too much liquid at once.

Can I freeze unbaked stuffing balls? Absolutely! Form the balls and freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

How do I know when the stuffing balls are done? They should be golden brown on the outside and feel firm when gently pressed. The internal temperature should reach 165°F if using a meat thermometer.

Can I use different types of bread? Yes, cornbread, whole wheat, or mixed bread varieties work well. Each type will create slightly different flavors and textures in your finished stuffing balls.

Conclusion

This Stuffing Balls Recipe revolutionizes the way we serve and enjoy traditional holiday stuffing, creating individual portions that guarantee perfect texture and flavor in every bite. The versatility of this Stuffing Balls Recipe allows for endless customization possibilities, making it suitable for various dietary preferences and flavor profiles. Whether you’re hosting a large holiday gathering or preparing a cozy family dinner, this Stuffing Balls Recipe ensures consistent, restaurant-quality results that will impress your guests and simplify your serving process. The make-ahead convenience and excellent storage capabilities make this Stuffing Balls Recipe an invaluable addition to your holiday cooking repertoire, providing both practical benefits and exceptional taste that will make it a requested favorite for years to come.