Stuffing balls are a tasty and festive side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday meal. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of dry bread cubes or stuffing mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup diced celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried sage (or 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1-2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (for moistening)
- Cooking spray or extra butter for greasing
- Optional additions: chopped nuts, dried fruits, cooked sausage, or other desired ingredients
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Saute Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions, celery, and garlic (if using). Sauté until the vegetables become tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry bread cubes or stuffing mix, sautéed vegetables, chopped parsley, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. If you want to add any optional ingredients like nuts, dried fruits, or cooked sausage, mix them in at this stage as well.
- Moisten the Mixture: Slowly add the chicken or vegetable broth to the stuffing mixture, starting with 1 cup. The amount of broth needed can vary depending on the dryness of your bread cubes or stuffing mix. You want the mixture to be moist but not overly soggy. Add more broth if necessary.
- Form Balls: Grease your hands with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Take a handful of the stuffing mixture and form it into a ball, about the size of a golf ball or slightly larger. Place each stuffing ball on a baking sheet.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet with the stuffing balls into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Remove the stuffing balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re a delightful addition to your holiday meal!
These stuffing balls can be served alongside your turkey or main course, and they’re also great for leftovers. Enjoy!
