I love transforming traditional stuffing into these perfectly portioned balls. After years of watching family members struggle to serve messy stuffing at holiday dinners I started making these bite sized beauties. They're crispy on the outside soft inside and packed with all those cozy holiday flavors we crave.
What Makes These Special
Here's what I love about stuffing balls no more fighting over crispy edges or dealing with serving spoons. Everyone gets their perfect portion with that golden crust. Plus they're so much easier to make ahead and reheat than traditional stuffing. My guests always ask for the recipe.
Grab These Ingredients
- Dry Stuffing Mix: 4 cups, choose cornbread or sourdough for tailored flavors.
- Chicken Broth: 1 cup, or substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Unsalted Butter: ½ cup, melted, or plant-based alternatives for vegan recipes.
- Eggs: 2, beaten, or vegan substitutes like flaxseed meal.
- Onion and Celery: 1 small onion and ½ cup celery, finely chopped.
- Poultry Seasoning: 1 teaspoon, or a blend of sage, thyme, and rosemary.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for balanced seasoning.
Let's Roll
- Preheat the Oven
- Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Mix Ingredients
- Combine 4 cups of stuffing mix, 1 cup of broth, and ½ cup of melted butter in a large bowl. Stir in 2 beaten eggs, chopped onion, celery, poultry seasoning, and salt and pepper.
- Form the Balls
- Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized portions, pressing gently but firmly. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced an inch apart.
- Bake
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch. Let cool slightly before serving.
Perfect Partners
These little balls are best friends with gravy and cranberry sauce. I like setting out both so people can choose their favorite. Sometimes I'll drizzle some gravy right over the platter it looks fancy and tastes amazing. They're perfect alongside turkey or ham but honestly I've served them with just about everything.
Make Life Easier
The best part about these is you can make them ahead and freeze them. I always have a batch ready in my freezer during the holiday season. Just pop them straight from frozen into the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time. They've saved me during last minute dinner invites.
Mix It Up
Don't be afraid to play with the recipe. Sometimes I add dried cranberries and pecans for something special. My vegetarian daughter loves them with mushrooms and vegetable broth. The key is keeping the moisture level right so they hold together well.
Common Questions
If your stuffing balls fall apart check your liquid ratio. I find mixing everything except the broth first then adding it gradually lets you get the perfect consistency. For gluten free versions rice based stuffing mix works great just press a bit more firmly when shaping.
Party Presentation
These stuffing balls shine on a holiday buffet. I arrange them on a pretty platter with fresh herbs and serve gravy on the side. For parties I make mini versions using a cookie scoop perfect two bite appetizers that disappear fast.
Shape and Bake
Press firmly when shaping but don't overwork the mixture. I use slightly damp hands to prevent sticking. You want them golden brown all over that's where the flavor is. Let them cool just a few minutes before serving they hold together better.
Healthy Twists
Using whole grain stuffing mix adds fiber and nutrients. I often load up on extra vegetables like finely diced carrots or mushrooms. My sister makes them with olive oil instead of butter and they're still delicious.
Perfect for Potlucks
These travel so well no spills or messy casserole dishes. I transport them in a covered container then reheat at the destination. They stay warm for quite a while in a slow cooker set to warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these ahead?
- Form balls and refrigerate up to 1 day. Bake just before serving.
- → What goes well with stuffing balls?
- Serve with gravy or cranberry sauce. Great alongside turkey or chicken.
- → Can I freeze them?
- Freeze unbaked stuffing balls up to 1 month. Thaw before baking.
- → Why do they fall apart?
- Ensure mixture is moist enough and well-mixed. Eggs help bind ingredients.
- → What size should they be?
- Form into golf ball sized portions for even cooking.