Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Transform your Thanksgiving feast with these delightful Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls! Packed with savory herbs, fresh veggies, and a touch of golden brown crust, these bite-sized treats deliver all the traditional stuffing flavor in an easy-to-serve form. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer, these golden nuggets will have your family and friends reaching for seconds.
These Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls are a creative twist on the classic stuffing your family loves. Each bite is a burst of flavor, making them a hit for any gathering.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare and serve
- Packed with flavor
- Perfect for leftovers
- Great for entertaining
The Perfect Holiday Side Dish
Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls are a delightful twist on the traditional stuffing that everyone loves. They capture the essence of the holiday with their savory flavors, making them an irresistible addition to any Thanksgiving table. Unlike typical stuffing, these stuffing balls are manageable and easy to serve, allowing guests to enjoy them as an appetizer or alongside the turkey. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a large feast, these bite-sized delights ensure that everyone can savor each flavorful morsel without the fuss.
Their golden brown exterior adds a comforting visual appeal, while the soft, herb-infused interior holds the classic flavors of Thanksgiving. Each bite is a journey through aromatic herbs and rich textures that will remind you of family gatherings and festive celebrations. Making your holiday table memorable has never been so enjoyable, thanks to these scrumptious stuffing balls.
Customization Options
One of the great things about Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls is their versatility. Feel free to make the dish your own by adding or substituting ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Crumbled sausage or diced apples can lend a sweet and savory balance, while adding nuts will provide a delightful crunch. Experiment with fresh herbs or different types of bread for varied flavor profiles. You can even prepare a vegetarian or gluten-free version by selecting alternative bread and adjusting the broth accordingly.
Don’t hesitate to get creative with mix-ins! Dried cranberries or even a hint of garlic can elevate your stuffing balls to the next level. Your guests will appreciate the effort, and it allows you to enjoy the process of cooking, making it a fantastic opportunity for culinary creativity during the holidays.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Thanksgiving can be a busy time, and preparing in advance is a great way to alleviate some of the stress. These stuffing balls can be made ahead of time and either stored in the refrigerator or frozen for later use. If you prepare them the day before, simply place the uncooked balls on a baking sheet, cover them with plastic wrap, and store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake. Just add an extra few minutes to the baking time to ensure they cook through properly.
For longer storage, freeze the formed stuffing balls on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from the freezer. This method can make the difference between a chaotic cooking day and a smooth, enjoyable Thanksgiving experience, allowing you more time to connect with family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Stuffing Balls
- 4 cups of bread cubes
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 large egg, beaten
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Bread Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, celery, onion, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Add Wet Ingredients
Add the melted butter, chicken broth, and beaten egg to the bread mixture. Stir until well combined.
Form the Balls
Use your hands to form the mixture into bite-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Let the stuffing balls cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as cranberry chutney or a savory gravy, to enhance their flavor even further. These pairing suggestions will delight your guests and leave a lasting impression on their taste buds. They also make an excellent accompaniment to a variety of main dishes, from roasted turkey to glazed ham, balancing richness with their flavorful herbs.
For a more casual setting, consider stacking them on top of a bed of mixed greens and drizzling them with a light vinaigrette. This presentation not only adds freshness but also elevates them into an elegant appetizer that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
Nutritional Information
While Thanksgiving is often filled with indulgent treats, you can enjoy these stuffing balls without straying too far from your health goals. The primary ingredients like celery, onion, and parsley add nutritional value, making these balls a somewhat lighter option. The use of homemade broth can also help to control sodium levels, ensuring that each bite remains savory and satisfying without the unnecessary additives found in many store-bought options.
If you're looking to make them even healthier, consider using whole grain bread to increase fiber content, or replace butter with olive oil, which offers heart-healthy fats. By making small alterations, you can enjoy the delightful flavor of Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls while being mindful of dietary needs.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and form the balls before baking.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls
Transform your Thanksgiving feast with these delightful Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls! Packed with savory herbs, fresh veggies, and a touch of golden brown crust, these bite-sized treats deliver all the traditional stuffing flavor in an easy-to-serve form. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer, these golden nuggets will have your family and friends reaching for seconds.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stuffing Balls
- 4 cups of bread cubes
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 large egg, beaten
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, celery, onion, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Add the melted butter, chicken broth, and beaten egg to the bread mixture. Stir until well combined.
Use your hands to form the mixture into bite-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 3g