Stuffing Balls Recipe

Stuffing balls recipe are the perfect savory side dish or holiday appetizer that brings all the flavors of classic stuffing into bite-sized portions. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy family dinner, these golden-baked stuffing balls are flavorful, easy to serve, and great for leftovers. They’re crisp on the outside and moist inside — a delightful twist on traditional stuffing.

Stuffing Balls Recipe

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  1. Perfectly Portionable – Individual servings make it easy for guests to grab and enjoy.

  2. Crispy and Moist – The outer crunch contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.

  3. Great for Holidays or Everyday Meals – A crowd-pleaser that suits any occasion.

  4. Make-Ahead Friendly – These stuffing balls can be prepped and baked later, ideal for busy schedules.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare flavorful stuffing balls:

  • 10 cups cubed bread (day-old or dried out)

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 3 celery stalks, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1 tsp dried sage

  • 1 tsp dried thyme

  • 1/2 tsp dried rosemary

  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 to 1½ cups chicken broth or vegetable broth

  • Optional: 1/2 cup cooked sausage or chopped mushrooms for added richness

Timing & Servings

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

  • Cook Time: 30–35 minutes

  • Total Time: 50–55 minutes

  • Servings: Makes about 12–15 stuffing balls

Step-by-Step Instructions for Stuffing Balls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Cubes

Use stale or lightly toasted bread for best results. Cube the bread into 1/2-inch pieces. Spread on a baking sheet and toast in a 300°F oven for about 10–15 minutes until dry and lightly golden.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and celery. Cook until softened (about 5–7 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Add Herbs and Seasonings

Sprinkle in sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to release aromas. Add the parsley last and turn off the heat.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables and herbs. Mix until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Broth

Whisk the eggs and pour them over the bread mixture. Slowly add broth, starting with 1 cup, and stir until the mixture is moist but not soggy. Add more broth if needed.

Step 6: Shape into Balls

Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid. Using clean hands or a scoop, form the mixture into golf-ball-sized rounds.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 30–35 minutes or until the outside is golden and slightly crispy.

Stuffing Balls Recipe

Tips for Perfect Stuffing Balls

Use Dry Bread

Fresh bread won’t absorb liquid well and may turn mushy. Let the bread cubes sit out overnight or toast them in the oven to dry.

Customize the Mix-Ins

Add cooked sausage, bacon, mushrooms, or cranberries for flavor variation. You can also mix in nuts like pecans for texture.

Adjust Moisture Carefully

Too much broth makes stuffing balls soggy; too little leaves them dry. Add liquid gradually while mixing.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Instructions

Make-Ahead

Prepare the stuffing mixture and form into balls. Store them covered in the fridge up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5–7 extra minutes to bake time if cold.

Freezer Option

Freeze unbaked stuffing balls on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10 extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

Stuffing balls pair beautifully with:

  • Roast turkey or chicken

  • Mashed potatoes and gravy

  • Cranberry sauce

  • Green bean casserole

  • Autumn soups like butternut squash or pumpkin

Variations to Try

Cheesy Stuffing Balls

Mix in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan for a cheesy version.

Gluten-Free Version

Use gluten-free bread and check labels on broth and seasonings to keep it gluten-free.

Vegetarian Option

Use vegetable broth and avoid meat-based mix-ins.

Nutritional Overview (Per Stuffing Ball)

Approximate values may vary based on ingredients:

  • Calories: 120

  • Protein: 3g

  • Carbohydrates: 15g

  • Fat: 5g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sodium: 180mg

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Why Are My Stuffing Balls Falling Apart?

This usually means the mixture is too dry. Add more broth, one tablespoon at a time, and gently mix until the balls hold together.

Why Are They Too Wet?

Too much broth can cause soggy stuffing balls. Try using less broth and letting the mixture rest before shaping.

Can I Fry Them?

Yes! If you prefer a crispier outside, pan-fry the balls in a bit of oil until golden all over.

FAQs

Can I make stuffing balls without eggs?

Yes, but eggs help bind the ingredients. You can substitute with a flax egg or mashed potato for a vegan or egg-free option.

How long do leftovers last?

Stuffing balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Can I reheat them?

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave for 30–60 seconds. To retain crispness, reheating in the oven is preferred.

Conclusion

Stuffing balls recipe are a creative and practical way to serve a classic holiday side dish. They deliver the same rich, herby flavor of traditional stuffing with the bonus of convenient portions and crisp texture. Whether you’re hosting a big celebration or just want a cozy meal, these golden stuffing balls will be a hit at your table. Try customizing them with your favorite mix-ins and enjoy a comforting bite of holiday cheer anytime.