Stuffing Balls

Here’s a detailed and unique article about Stuffing Balls, with a full explanation of how to make them step by step:

Stuffing Balls: A Crispy, Flavorful Twist on a Classic Side Dish

Stuffing is a holiday staple, bringing warmth, comfort, and nostalgia to the table. But instead of serving it in a casserole dish, why not turn it into bite-sized, golden-brown Stuffing Balls? These little flavor-packed morsels are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfect for serving as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack. Whether you’re planning for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual family dinner, stuffing balls make the meal more fun and versatile.

Why Choose Stuffing Balls?

Portion Control – Each guest can grab as many as they like.
Crispy Texture – Baking them separately gives you that irresistible crunchy exterior.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare them ahead of time and just reheat before serving.
Creative Serving – Works beautifully as a finger food with gravy or cranberry dipping sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make about 12–15 stuffing balls, gather the following:

6 cups cubed bread (day-old or toasted for best results)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 stalks celery, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon dried sage (or 2 tsp fresh, chopped)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon rosemary, crushed
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth (warm)
1 egg, beaten (to help bind)
Optional add-ins: cooked sausage, chopped mushrooms, dried cranberries, or nuts

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Base

If you’re not using day-old bread, cut fresh bread into small cubes and toast them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes until dry but not browned.
Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant (about 5–7 minutes).
Stir in the herbs (sage, thyme, rosemary) and season with salt and pepper. This step releases their aromas and ensures the stuffing is well-flavored.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Pour the sautéed mixture over the bread cubes.
Gradually add the warm broth while tossing gently. The bread should be moist but not soggy.
Stir in the beaten egg to help the mixture hold together.
If you want, fold in extras like sausage crumbles, cranberries, or nuts for added flavor.