Savory stuffing balls are a delicious twist on classic stuffing, offering all the familiar flavors in a fun and easy-to-serve form. These golden, crispy bites are packed with herbs, butter, and soft yet slightly crunchy bread cubes, making them a perfect addition to your holiday table or as a side dish for any meal.
Unlike traditional stuffing, which is often baked in a casserole dish, these individual portions allow for even browning and a crispy texture in every bite. Whether you’re serving them alongside roasted turkey, chicken, or as a snack with gravy, these stuffing balls are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for the Holidays – A great alternative to traditional stuffing, ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special meal.
- Crispy on the Outside, Soft on the Inside – Baking them individually creates the perfect balance of textures.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this an effortless dish.
- Great for Meal Prep – Can be made ahead of time and reheated for convenience.
- Versatile – Enjoy as a side dish, appetizer, or snack with your favorite dipping sauce or gravy.
Ingredients for Savory Stuffing Balls
Base Ingredients:
- 4 cups dry bread cubes – Acts as the foundation for the stuffing. If your bread cubes aren’t fully dry, toast them in the oven for a better texture.
Vegetables & Aromatics:
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped – Adds depth and natural sweetness.
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped – Provides crunch and a mild earthy flavor.
Binding Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – Enhances richness and helps bind the ingredients.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or more as needed) – Adds moisture without making the mixture too wet.
- 2 large eggs, beaten – Helps hold the stuffing balls together.
Seasonings & Herbs:
- 1 teaspoon dried sage – A classic stuffing herb that adds warmth and depth.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Complements the sage with an earthy, slightly minty taste.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild heat and balance.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Cubes
- If your bread cubes are not already dry, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast them for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are completely dry and slightly crisp.
- Transfer the dry bread cubes to a large mixing bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and celery, stirring frequently. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
- Pour the cooked vegetables and melted butter over the bread cubes in the mixing bowl.
- Sprinkle in the sage, thyme, salt, and black pepper, stirring well to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth, mixing gently after each addition. The mixture should be moist enough to hold together when pressed but not overly wet.
- Add the beaten eggs and mix thoroughly to ensure the stuffing holds its shape when formed into balls.
Step 4: Form the Stuffing Balls
- Using your hands, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a firm ball (about 1 ½ inches in diameter).
- Repeat with the remaining mixture, forming 12 stuffing balls.
- Arrange them on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
- Remove from the oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
How to Serve Savory Stuffing Balls
These flavorful stuffing balls can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
- Classic Holiday Side Dish – Serve alongside roast turkey, chicken, or ham for a traditional holiday meal.
- With Gravy – Drizzle or dip them in homemade turkey or brown gravy for extra richness.
- As an Appetizer – Serve with a side of cranberry sauce or a creamy dip.
- Stuffed in a Sandwich – Use them in a Thanksgiving leftover sandwich with turkey and cranberry sauce.
- With Soup – Pair with a bowl of warm soup for a cozy meal.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Make It Vegetarian – Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Add More Herbs – Try adding rosemary, parsley, or marjoram for an extra herbaceous flavor.
- Cheesy Twist – Mix in ½ cup shredded parmesan or cheddar cheese for a richer taste.
- Add Protein – Stir in cooked crumbled sausage or bacon for a meaty version.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free bread cubes and check that your broth and seasonings are gluten-free.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Make-Ahead Option:
- Prepare the stuffing mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator.
- Shape the stuffing balls and place them on a baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze stuffing balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions:
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until heated evenly.
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes for a crispy texture.
Final Thoughts
These Savory Stuffing Balls are an easy and delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of stuffing in a fun, bite-sized form. With their crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior, they make an excellent side dish, appetizer, or snack. Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday feast or just looking for a creative way to serve stuffing, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Give them a try and bring a little extra warmth and flavor to your table!