Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these *stuffing balls*! They are absolutely delicious and so versatile—perfect for any meal, not just Thanksgiving! I love how they can be served alongside roasted meats, tossed into a salad, or even enjoyed on their own as a snack. The combination of crispy edges and a soft, flavorful center is just heavenly. Trust me, once you try making these at home, you’ll find yourself looking for excuses to whip them up! They’re super easy to make and, honestly, they disappear faster than I can put them on the table!
Ingredients for Stuffing Balls
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 cups bread crumbs: Use day-old bread for the best texture. You can make your own by toasting and grinding stale bread or buy pre-made crumbs.
- 1 cup chicken broth: This adds moisture and flavor; feel free to use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped: Finely chop for even distribution of flavor. I love using sweet onions for a hint of sweetness.
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped: Adds a nice crunch and fresh flavor. Dice it small so it blends well with the rest of the ingredients.
- 1/4 cup butter, melted: This helps bind the mixture together and gives a rich flavor. Don’t skip this part!
- 1 teaspoon sage: A classic herb for stuffing; it brings that warm, earthy flavor. Dried or fresh works, but I prefer dried for this recipe.
- 1 teaspoon thyme: Another herb that complements the stuffing beautifully. Again, dried is easiest here.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season! Adjust according to your preference, but I like a good pinch of both.
How to Prepare Stuffing Balls
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your *stuffing balls* cook evenly and get that lovely golden brown color we all crave. While the oven is warming up, you can get everything else ready—multitasking is key in the kitchen!
Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine those scrumptious bread crumbs, chopped onion, and celery, along with the sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. I like to use my hands for this part—it’s the best way to really mix everything together thoroughly. Then, pour in the melted butter and chicken broth. Give it a good stir until everything is nicely moistened. The mixture should feel a bit damp but still hold together when you squeeze it. If it seems too dry, just add a splash more broth!
Form the Balls
Now comes the fun part! With clean hands, grab a handful of the mixture and shape it into balls about the size of a golf ball. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect—each one will have its own character! If the mixture is too crumbly to hold together, just add a bit more broth or melted butter. Make sure to give them a gentle squeeze to help them stick together without crushing them.
Baking Process
Once your *stuffing balls* are formed, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze! Arrange them so they have a little space in between—this helps them crisp up nicely. Pop them in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside. Oh, the smell that fills your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible! Trust me, you’ll want to keep an eye on them toward the end to make sure they don’t over-bake.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your *stuffing balls* turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite pro tips and tricks:
- Use Day-Old Bread: Trust me, using stale bread makes a world of difference! It gives your *stuffing balls* that wonderful texture. If you only have fresh bread, just toast it lightly before making the crumbs.
- Get Creative with Herbs: While sage and thyme are classic, feel free to mix it up! Try adding rosemary or parsley for a fresh twist. Just remember, fresh herbs are usually more potent, so adjust the quantities accordingly.
- Make it Your Own: Want to add a little zing? Toss in some chopped garlic or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick! Dried cranberries or chopped nuts can add a delightful sweetness and crunch—don’t be afraid to experiment!
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is moistened. Overmixing can make the *stuffing balls* tough, and we want them tender and fluffy!
- Chill the Mixture: If you find the mixture too soft to form into balls, stick it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps firm it up, making it easier to shape.
- Prepare Ahead of Time: You can make these little beauties ahead of time! Just form the balls and place them on a baking sheet. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze them for later. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re frozen.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making *stuffing balls* that are bursting with flavor and texture. Enjoy the process and don’t forget to have fun with it!
Nutritional Information
Curious about what’s in these delightful *stuffing balls*? Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving (that’s one glorious *stuffing ball*):
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But it’s nice to know that you’re indulging in something that’s not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients! Enjoy your *stuffing balls* without the guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you, making *stuffing balls* is one of the best kitchen decisions you’ll ever make! They’re not just delicious, but they come with a whole lot of perks that make them an absolute must-try. Here’s why you’ll adore this recipe:
- Quick to Prepare: With just a 15-minute prep time, you’ll have these tasty bites ready for the oven in no time!
- Easy to Make: Even if you’re a kitchen novice, these *stuffing balls* are straightforward enough to whip up with confidence.
- Versatile: They’re perfect for any occasion! Serve them as a side dish, add them to salads, or enjoy them as a snack—whatever floats your boat!
- Flavorful: The delightful blend of herbs and ingredients means each bite is bursting with flavor. You can’t go wrong!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep them in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday gathering, everyone will love these little flavor bombs!
- Customizable: Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! Add your favorite herbs, veggies, or even a touch of spice to make them your own.
Honestly, once you try these *stuffing balls*, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to experience how wonderful they are!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious *stuffing balls* fresh and ready for your next snack or meal! Storing them properly is super important to maintain their yummy texture and flavor.
First, once your *stuffing balls* have cooled down completely, transfer them to an airtight container. This will keep them from drying out. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper if you’re stacking them, so they don’t stick together.
If you want to make them ahead of time, go ahead and freeze them! Just arrange the *stuffing balls* in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer until they’re solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Perfect for those busy nights when you need a quick side dish!
Now, when it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven to bring them back to life. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the *stuffing balls* on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside again. If they were frozen, add a few extra minutes to ensure they’re warmed all the way through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they won’t get that lovely crispiness. Just heat them for about 30 seconds at a time until warm.
So there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your *stuffing balls* long after they’re made. They’re perfect for meal prep or just as a quick snack! Yum!
FAQ About Stuffing Balls
Got questions about *stuffing balls*? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with my personal insights and tips to make your experience even better.
Can I make *stuffing balls* ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and form the balls, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat. If you want to freeze them, arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll be good for about 2 months!
What can I add to the mixture?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can add cooked sausage for a meaty twist, or toss in some dried cranberries or chopped nuts for a sweet and crunchy surprise. Feel free to experiment with different herbs too—rosemary, parsley, or even a pinch of cayenne for heat can elevate the flavors!
How do I serve *stuffing balls*?
They’re super versatile! Serve them as a side dish with your favorite proteins, toss them into a salad for added texture, or simply enjoy them as a snack. They also make a fantastic addition to a charcuterie board—trust me, they’ll be the first to disappear!
Can I use gluten-free bread?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to find a gluten-free bread that you enjoy. The texture will still be delicious, and your *stuffing balls* will be suitable for anyone following a gluten-free diet.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Once your *stuffing balls* have cooled down, transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just remember to separate layers with parchment paper if you’re stacking them to prevent sticking!
How can I make them extra crispy?
For that perfect crispy exterior, make sure to space the *stuffing balls* out on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around them during baking. You can also give them a quick broil for the last minute or two—just watch closely so they don’t burn!
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Definitely! Fresh herbs are packed with flavor, but remember they’re usually more potent, so you’ll want to use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried. Just chop them finely and mix them in for a vibrant taste!
And there you have it! If you have any other questions or need more tips, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help you create the best *stuffing balls* ever!
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Stuffing Balls: 5 Irresistible Recipes You’ll Crave
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 20 stuffing balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious stuffing balls perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups bread crumbs
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon sage
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, onion, celery, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Add melted butter and chicken broth. Mix well.
- Form the mixture into balls.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for better texture.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste.
- Can be made ahead and frozen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffing ball
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: stuffing balls
