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Stuffing balls are a cozy side dish that transforms traditional stuffing into easy-to-serve individual bites perfect for family dinners or gatherings. They bring festive flavors to the table in a fun and approachable way without the fuss of a casserole dish.
I whipped these up on a busy evening when I wanted all the holiday vibes without the holiday prep. They quickly became a family favorite we look forward to every year.
Ingredients
- Bread crumbs: provide the sturdy base to hold each ball together. Use fresh or day-old bread for best texture
- Cooked cranberries: add a touch of sweetness and tartness. Fresh is wonderful but dried works well too if rehydrated slightly
- Sage: gives an earthy herbal note classic to stuffing. Fresh leaves bring vibrant flavor but dried is convenient and pantry-friendly
- Onion: adds sweetness and depth once softened. Look for firm, dry-skinned onions free of blemishes
- Garlic: offers a punch of aroma and warmth. Fresh cloves are always best for the clearest flavor
- Vegetable broth: helps moisten the mix and adds savory undertones. Choose low-sodium to control salt levels
- Butter: melted into the mix enriches the balls with a creamy texture and deeper flavor
- Salt and pepper: season the stuffing balls just right to enhance all ingredients
Instructions
- Build The Mixture:
- In a large bowl combine bread crumbs, cooked cranberries, sage, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic. Mixing these dry and fresh components ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
- Add Liquid Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable broth and melted butter. Pour this wet mixture over the dry mix. Stir until everything is evenly moistened but not soggy.
- Season And Shape:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Using clean hands, form the mixture into balls about one to one and a half inches wide. This size guarantees even cooking and easy handling.
- Prepare For Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the balls on the sheet leaving some space between them to allow crisping.
- Bake To Perfection:
- Bake for twenty to twenty-five minutes, turning the balls once halfway through cooking for even browning. They should develop a golden color and feel firm to the touch.
- Rest And Serve:
- Let the stuffing balls cool for about five minutes on the baking sheet to set before serving warm. This makes them easier to handle and lets flavors meld beautifully.
My favorite ingredient has always been sage. Its aroma instantly reminds me of family dinners and holiday celebrations where these stuffing balls were passed around with smiles and full plates.
Storage Tips
Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain their texture without drying out.
Ingredient Swaps
Swap vegetable broth for chicken broth if you prefer a meatier flavor. Use dried herbs doubled if fresh ones are not available to maintain robust taste. For a nutty twist, add a handful of toasted chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the mixture.
Serving Ideas
Serve alongside roast chicken, turkey, or a hearty vegetable stew. They make excellent finger foods for holiday parties or a side for a casual weeknight feast. Drizzle with a bit of gravy or cranberry sauce for extra indulgence.
The perfect stuffing balls are golden, flavorful, and bring a bit of holiday spirit to any meal.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of bread crumbs works best?
Dry, fine bread crumbs help hold the balls together and achieve a tender texture.
- → Can fresh cranberries be substituted with dried ones?
Yes, both fresh and dried cranberries work well, adding tart sweetness and texture.
- → How do I keep the stuffing balls moist?
The vegetable broth combined with melted butter ensures the mixture stays moist and flavorful.
- → What is the best way to prevent the balls from sticking to the baking sheet?
Greasing the sheet or lining it with parchment paper helps keep the balls from sticking during baking.
- → Can these balls be reheated without drying out?
Yes, gently reheating them in a low oven with a bit of moisture helps maintain their tenderness.
- → Is it necessary to turn the balls halfway through baking?
Turning them ensures even browning and crispness on all sides.