Easy Stuffing Balls: A Simple and Delicious Holiday Side Dish

Easy Stuffing Balls: The Perfect Holiday Side Dish

If you’re searching for a quick, delicious, and versatile side dish, Easy Stuffing Balls are the answer. These bite-sized portions capture the comforting flavors of traditional stuffing while offering a convenient and elegant serving option. Pair them with rich gravies, festive main courses, or even as an appetizer to start the meal. Try pairing this with Crockpot Potato Soup for a warm and hearty dinner idea.

Why You’ll Love Stuffing Balls

Portion Control: Each ball is perfectly portioned, making it ideal for large gatherings.
Quick Cooking: These bake faster than traditional stuffing.

Customizable: Easily tailored to your flavor preferences or dietary needs.

For an elevated presentation, serve these alongside Slow Cooker Baked Ziti to impress your guests with variety.

Ingredients for Easy Stuffing Balls

Core Ingredients:

Bread Cubes: Day-old bread works best for texture.

Vegetables: Chopped onions, celery, and parsley provide classic stuffing flavors.
Seasoning: Poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper are essentials.
Binders: Eggs and chicken or vegetable broth to hold everything together.

Optional Add-Ins:

Meat: Add cooked sausage or bacon for a heartier option.
Sweetness: Dried cranberries or diced apples for a festive twist.
Crunch: Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture.

Tools You’ll Need

Mixing Bowls: Large enough to combine all ingredients.
Baking Sheet: Lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Cookie Scoop or Hands: For shaping uniform stuffing balls.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Cut bread into 1/2-inch cubes and leave out overnight to dry.
Sauté onions and celery in butter until softened.
In a large bowl, mix bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, and seasonings.

2. Bind and Shape

Whisk eggs with broth and pour over the bread mixture.
Stir gently, ensuring the mixture is moist and holds its shape when pressed.

3. Shape the Balls

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into golf ball-sized portions.
Place on the baking sheet, spacing them evenly.

4. Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway for even browning.

Remove from oven and serve warm with gravy or cranberry sauce.

For a comforting pairing, serve with No Peek Beef Tips as a hearty main course.

Tips for Success

Use Day-Old Bread: It absorbs liquid better without becoming mushy.

Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the ingredients to maintain texture.
Test the Mixture: Form a test ball to ensure the mixture holds together.

Creative Variations

Cheesy Stuffing Balls:

Add shredded cheddar or Parmesan to the mixture.

Herb-Infused:

Incorporate fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage for a more aromatic profile.

Sweet and Savory:

Mix in dried cranberries, raisins, or diced apples.

Vegetarian Option:

Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and add sautéed mushrooms.

Spicy Stuffing Balls:

Include diced jalapeños or red chili flakes for a kick.

For more variety, consider pairing these with German Chocolate Poke Cake for a sweet finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a side with turkey, ham, or chicken.

Pair with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.
Include in a buffet spread with appetizers like Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Corn Dip.

FAQs About Stuffing Balls

Q1: Can I prepare stuffing balls in advance?
A: Yes, you can shape the balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours or freeze them for longer storage.

Q2: How do I reheat stuffing balls?
A: Warm them in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or until heated through.

Q3: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Substitute gluten-free bread for traditional bread. Adjust broth quantity as needed.

Q4: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Q5: Can I use stuffing balls in other recipes?
A: Yes, crumble them into soups or casseroles for added flavor.

Internal Linking Opportunities

Mini Pineapple Coconut Cheesecakes: A tropical dessert to round out your meal.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy: A rich main course to pair with stuffing balls.

Kentucky Butter Cake: A sweet and buttery ending to your holiday feast.

Conclusion

Easy Stuffing Balls are a versatile and crowd-pleasing side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from holiday dinners to casual gatherings. Their bite-sized format, quick preparation, and endless customization options make them a must-have recipe in your repertoire. Serve these with your favorite sides and desserts to create a memorable meal!