Sausage Stuffing Balls with Gravy

Step 4: Combine the Stuffing Mixture

Add the cooked onion, celery, and garlic to the bowl with the bread cubes and sausage.

Sprinkle in the sage, parsley, thyme, black pepper, salt, and poultry seasoning.

Add the parmesan cheese if using. It gives the stuffing balls a slightly richer flavor and helps them brown beautifully.

Mix everything gently until the ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 5: Add Egg and Broth

In a small bowl, beat the egg.

Pour the egg over the stuffing mixture. Then slowly add the chicken broth, starting with ¾ cup.

Mix gently with a spoon or your hands. The mixture should become moist enough to hold together when pressed, but it should not be soggy.

If it feels too dry, add a little more broth. If it feels too wet, add more bread cubes.

Step 6: Shape the Stuffing Balls

Preheat the oven to 375°F / 190°C.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Take a small handful of the stuffing mixture and roll it into a ball. Each ball should be about the size of a golf ball.

Place the balls on the baking sheet with a little space between each one.

Do not pack them too tightly. Press them just enough to hold their shape. If they are packed too firmly, they may become dense instead of tender.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Place the baking sheet in the oven.

Bake for 22 to 28 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden on the outside and hot in the center.

If you want extra crisp edges, brush the tops lightly with melted butter before baking.

The stuffing balls should be firm enough to pick up but still soft and moist inside.

Step 8: Make the Gravy

While the stuffing balls bake, prepare the gravy.

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes.

This creates a roux, which thickens the gravy and gives it a smooth texture.

Slowly pour in the broth while whisking constantly. Keep whisking until the gravy becomes smooth and begins to thicken.

Add black pepper, garlic powder, and salt to taste.

For a richer gravy, stir in a small splash of heavy cream at the end.

Step 9: Serve with Gravy

Place the baked sausage stuffing balls on a serving plate.

Pour warm gravy over the top or serve the gravy on the side for dipping.

Garnish with fresh parsley for color and freshness.

Serve hot with mashed potatoes, roasted turkey, chicken, cranberry sauce, green beans, or roasted carrots.

Tips for the Best Stuffing Balls

Use dried bread, not soft fresh bread. Dry bread gives better texture and prevents the mixture from becoming mushy.

Do not add all the broth at once. Add it slowly until the mixture holds together.

Cook the sausage before mixing. This improves flavor and makes sure the stuffing balls cook evenly.

Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes before shaping. This gives the bread time to absorb the moisture.

Brush with butter before baking if you want a more golden crust.

Flavor Variations

For a spicy version, use hot Italian sausage or add chili flakes.

For a sweeter holiday flavor, add dried cranberries or chopped apples.

For a cheesy version, mix in cheddar, parmesan, or mozzarella.

For an herby version, add fresh rosemary, sage, parsley, and thyme.

For a richer version, add cooked bacon pieces or sautéed mushrooms.

Make-Ahead Instructions

You can prepare the stuffing balls ahead of time.

Shape them, place them on a tray, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

When ready to cook, bake them directly from the refrigerator. Add 3 to 5 extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

You can also bake them first, refrigerate them, and reheat before serving.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover sausage stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F / 175°C for 10 to 12 minutes until warm.

You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a crispier texture.

Store gravy separately and warm it on the stove. Add a splash of broth if it becomes too thick.

Final Thoughts

Sausage Stuffing Balls with Gravy are a delicious twist on classic stuffing. They are savory, golden, moist inside, and full of comforting holiday flavor. The sausage makes them hearty, the herbs make them fragrant, and the warm gravy turns them into a rich and satisfying dish.

They are easy to prepare, simple to serve, and perfect for both festive meals and cozy family dinners.