Thanksgiving dinner wouldn’t be complete without a generous helping of stuffing, and this recipe for Stuffing Balls takes the classic side dish to a whole new level. These savory, bite-sized delights are bursting with flavor and are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Whether you’re serving them alongside roast turkey or as a standalone appetizer, these stuffing balls are guaranteed to impress. Join us as we dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this beloved holiday favorite!
Ingredients:
- 2 loaves white bread
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 small green pepper, chopped (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons ground sage
- 1 1/2-2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- Turkey broth
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bread:
- Cut the white bread into small cubes and spread them out on a baking sheet. Leave them out overnight to dry out or bake them in the oven at a low temperature until they are crispy.
- Make the Stuffing Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and water until well combined. Set aside.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped celery, onion, and green pepper (if using) to the skillet and sauté until softened.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the dried bread cubes to the egg mixture, along with the sautéed vegetables, chopped parsley, ground sage, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly coated and moistened. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a little turkey broth to moisten it further.
- Form the Stuffing Balls:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using your hands, roll the stuffing mixture into golf ball-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Stuffing Balls:
- Bake the stuffing balls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the stuffing balls are cooked through, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them as a side dish with roast turkey or as a tasty appetizer!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stuffing mixture.
- Go Nuts: Incorporate some chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added texture and flavor.
- Sweeten It Up: For a touch of sweetness, mix in some dried cranberries or chopped apples.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: Substitute the white bread with almond flour or a low-carb bread alternative. Use almond milk instead of regular milk, and replace the water with chicken broth. Ensure any optional ingredients are keto-friendly.
- Low-Carb: Use a low-carb bread option or omit the bread entirely and opt for a mixture of cauliflower rice and almond flour. Adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly to achieve the desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the stuffing mixture and form the balls in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake, then follow the baking instructions when you’re ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze leftover stuffing balls? A: Absolutely! Once baked, allow the stuffing balls to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat them in the oven until warmed through before serving.
Q: What can I serve with these stuffing balls? A: These stuffing balls pair perfectly with roast turkey, chicken, or pork. They also make a delicious addition to holiday feasts alongside mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and green beans.
With their irresistible combination of savory flavors and crispy texture, these Stuffing Balls are sure to become a new holiday favorite. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, these bite-sized delights are guaranteed to impress. Give them a try and watch as your family and friends devour them with delight
