Stuffing Balls


These Stuffing Balls are a fun and creative way to enjoy everyone’s favorite holiday side dish. Packed with all the flavors of traditional stuffing—herbs, onions, celery, and buttery bread—but shaped into adorable, bite-sized portions, they’re perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even as a unique main dish. Whether you're serving them at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just because, these crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside morsels are sure to be a hit. Let’s roll up these savory bites and enjoy every delicious mouthful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Festive & Fun: Bite-sized stuffing balls add a playful twist to your holiday table.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep and freeze ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.
  • Customizable: Add sausage, cranberries, nuts, or cheese to suit your taste.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holiday dinners, parties, or leftover-inspired meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Stuffing Balls:

  • 4 cups cubed stale bread (or use packaged stuffing cubes)
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (or olive oil for a lighter option)
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp dried sage (or 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional mix-ins: cooked sausage, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, or shredded cheese

For Coating (Optional):

  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. If using stale bread, cut it into small cubes. If using fresh bread, toast the cubes in the oven for 5–10 minutes until slightly dried out.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion, celery, and garlic, and sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

3. Combine the Ingredients

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, sautéed aromatics, chicken broth, sage, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until the bread is evenly coated and moistened.
  2. If adding optional mix-ins like sausage, cranberries, or nuts, fold them in at this stage.

4. Shape the Balls

  1. Use your hands to form the mixture into golf ball-sized spheres (about 1.5–2 inches in diameter).
  2. Optional: Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs or Parmesan cheese for an extra crispy exterior.

5. Bake the Stuffing Balls

  1. Place the shaped balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
  2. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

6. Serve and Enjoy

  1. Let the stuffing balls cool slightly before serving.
  2. Serve warm with gravy, cranberry sauce, or dipping sauces like honey mustard or aioli.

Serving Suggestions

  • For Holidays: Arrange on a platter as a festive appetizer or side dish.
  • At Gatherings: Serve as finger food at parties or potlucks—they’re always a crowd-pleaser!
  • With Dips: Pair with gravy, cranberry sauce, or a creamy dip for extra indulgence.
  • Meal Prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

Pro Tips for Success

  • Use Stale Bread: Stale bread absorbs moisture better, creating the perfect texture.
  • Add Protein: Mix in cooked sausage, bacon, or shredded chicken for a heartier version.
  • Freeze Ahead: Shape the balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Try different herbs like rosemary or add spices like smoked paprika for a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

These Stuffing Balls are a delightful reinvention of classic holiday stuffing, combining all the cozy flavors we love in a fun, bite-sized package. With their crispy exterior, soft interior, and endless customization options, they’re a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious.

So grab your bread cubes, toss in those herbs, and roll up these savory, festive bites. One bite of these crispy, flavorful stuffing balls, and you’ll feel like you’ve brought the joy of the holidays straight to your table—one irresistible, golden ball at a time! 🍂