Stuffing Balls: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for 12 Servings

Stuffing balls are a delightful and versatile dish that can elevate any meal. These little bites of flavor are perfect for holiday feasts, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home. The first time you try stuffing balls, you’ll be amazed at how a simple combination of classic ingredients can create such a wonderful taste sensation. Each bite offers a savory blend of herbs, spices, and textures that will leave everyone coming back for more.
If you’ve ever struggled with what to serve alongside your favorite main dishes, stuffing balls are the answer. They are not only easy to make but also incredibly adaptable. You can customize them with various ingredients to suit your taste. Imagine biting into a crispy exterior that gives way to a soft, flavorful center. This recipe will guide you through the process of making stuffing balls that are sure to impress your family and friends.
In this article, you will discover why stuffing balls are a fantastic addition to your recipe collection, how to prepare them perfectly, and tips on serving them. Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find that making stuffing balls is both simple and rewarding. So, let’s dive in and explore the incredible world of stuffing balls!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Stuffing balls have become a beloved dish for numerous reasons. Here are just a few that will have you excited to try making them:
1. Easy to Prepare – With straightforward ingredients and clear instructions, you won’t feel overwhelmed.
2. Customizable – You can add your favorite herbs, spices, or even meats to make them truly unique.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion – They work well as a side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even casual weeknight dinners.
4. Kid-Friendly – Children love the fun bite-sized shape, making them an excellent choice for family meals.
5. Leftover Friendly – You can easily make stuffing balls with leftover bread or stuffing, minimizing waste.
6. Deliciously Versatile – Serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course with the right accompaniments.
With these benefits in mind, it’s clear why stuffing balls are a favorite among many home cooks. They offer an incredible flavor experience while being simple to create!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Making stuffing balls doesn’t take much time at all. Here’s a breakdown of the time required to get these delightful bites on the table:
– Preparation Time: 20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
– Total Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes
These times may vary slightly based on your cooking experience and kitchen setup, but this framework should provide an excellent estimate.

Ingredients

– 4 cups bread cubes (day-old bread works best)
– ½ cup onion, finely chopped
– ½ cup celery, finely chopped
– ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– ¼ cup melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating stuffing balls is straightforward when you follow these simple steps:
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Bread Cubes: In a large bowl, add the bread cubes.
3. Cook Vegetables: In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the onion and celery, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked vegetables, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper to the bread cubes. Mix well.
5. Add Liquids: In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and broth. Pour this mixture over the bread cube mixture, stirring until evenly moistened.
6. Form Balls: With your hands, shape the mixture into balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
7. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the stuffing balls on a greased baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
9. Cool Slightly: Once done, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
These easy steps will help you create stuffing balls that are both flavorful and satisfying.

How to Serve

When it comes to serving stuffing balls, presentation and pairing can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some ideas:
1. Presentation: Arrange the stuffing balls on a decorative platter for a beautiful display. Garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch of elegance.
2. Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as gravy, cranberry sauce, or a tangy mustard for added flavor.
3. Accompaniments: Pair stuffing balls with roasted meats, such as turkey or chicken, along with seasonal vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
4. Temperature: Serve them warm for the best taste and texture. If they cool down, you can reheat them briefly in the oven.
5. Individual Portions: Consider serving stuffing balls in small ramekins for individual portions, making it easy for guests to enjoy.
By putting thought into how you serve stuffing balls, you can create a memorable dining experience for your guests. Each bite will be a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will have everyone talking long after the meal is over.

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Herbs: For an aromatic flavor, use fresh herbs instead of dried ones. Fresh parsley, thyme, and sage can enhance the taste significantly.
– Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is moistened. Overmixing can lead to tough stuffing balls.
– Experiment with Add-Ins: Consider adding ingredients like dried cranberries, nuts, or cheese for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
– Test for Seasoning: Before forming the balls, taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary. This is key to ensuring they are flavorful.

Recipe Variation

Get creative with your stuffing balls! Here are a few delicious variations to try:
1. Cheesy Stuffing Balls: Incorporate shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella into the mixture for a gooey, cheesy center.
2. Savory Sausage Stuffing Balls: Add cooked and crumbled sausage to the mixture for a heartier option that pairs well with festive meals.
3. Herbed Mushroom Stuffing Balls: Sauté mushrooms along with the onions and celery for an earthy flavor that complements the herbs.
4. Spicy Stuffing Balls: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick that adds excitement to your dish.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
– Freezing: You can freeze uncooked stuffing balls for up to 3 months. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to use them, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Special Equipment

To make the process of creating perfect stuffing balls easier, consider having the following equipment on hand:
– Large Mixing Bowl: For combining all your ingredients comfortably.
– Skillet: To cook the vegetables before mixing them with the bread.
– Baking Sheet: For placing the formed stuffing balls in the oven.
– Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
– Spoon or Cookie Scoop: Helps in forming uniform balls, ensuring even cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance, store them in the refrigerator, and bake them just before serving.
How do I know when the stuffing balls are done?
They should be golden brown and firm to the touch. You can also use a food thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What can I serve stuffing balls with?
Stuffing balls pair wonderfully with turkey, chicken, or any roasted meats. They can also be served with gravy, cranberry sauce, or as part of a holiday spread.
Can I make stuffing balls gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the bread cubes with gluten-free bread or a gluten-free stuffing mix to create a delicious gluten-free version.
What’s the best way to reheat stuffing balls?
Place them on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Conclusion

Stuffing balls are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a wonderful blend of flavors and textures. Whether served as a side dish, appetizer, or even a main course, they are sure to impress your guests. With their customizable nature, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy creating these scrumptious bites that will be a hit at your next gathering!

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