Welcome to a culinary journey that transcends generations—Grandma’s Stuffing Balls. This timeless recipe is a testament to the warmth of family kitchens and the flavors that linger in our memories. Join us as we unravel the secrets of crafting these delectable spheres of joy, passed down through the ages, creating a legacy on your dining table.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to embark on your journey into the heart of Grandma’s culinary wisdom:
The Pillars of Flavor:
- 6 cups stale bread cubes
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup onion, finely diced
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
The Crown Jewels of Variation:
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled sausage (optional)
- 1 cup chopped apples
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
Let the magic unfold as you craft Grandma’s Stuffing Balls:
1. Prepare the Bread:
- Start by cutting stale bread into small cubes. Spread them out on a baking sheet and let them air dry for a few hours or overnight.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a pan, sauté diced onions and chopped celery in melted butter until they are soft and translucent. Allow the mixture to cool.
3. Create the Stuffing Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the stale bread cubes, sautéed onions and celery, beaten eggs, poultry seasoning, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure even distribution of flavors.
4. Introduce the Liquid Gold:
- Slowly pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the mixture, ensuring it is absorbed evenly. The stuffing mixture should be moist but not overly saturated.
5. Add the Crown Jewels:
- Elevate the flavor profile by incorporating optional ingredients such as sausage, chopped apples, dried cranberries, and nuts. Mix until all elements are harmoniously integrated.
6. Shape into Balls:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish. With your hands, form the stuffing mixture into golf ball-sized spheres and place them in the prepared dish.
7. Bake to Perfection:
- Bake the stuffing balls for 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden brown and have a slightly crispy exterior. Rotate them halfway through for uniform cooking.
Cook Notes and Variations
Unlock the full potential of Grandma’s Stuffing Balls with these notes and inventive variations:
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the stuffing balls a day in advance, refrigerate them, and bake just before serving for a stress-free culinary experience.
- Savory or Sweet Twist: Tailor the stuffing balls to your taste by adjusting the sweetness with more dried fruit or enhancing the savory profile with additional herbs and spices.
- Gluten-Free Glory: Substitute stale gluten-free bread for a celiac-friendly version without compromising on flavor.
- Bite-Sized Brilliance: Transform the stuffing mixture into bite-sized balls for an elegant appetizer or a charming addition to your holiday spread.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?
A: While stale bread is preferred for its ability to absorb flavors, you can use fresh bread cubes and lightly toast them in the oven for a similar effect.
Q: What can I substitute for poultry seasoning?
A: If you don’t have poultry seasoning, a combination of dried sage, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram can be used to replicate the flavor profile.
Q: How do I store leftover stuffing balls?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to maintain their delightful crispiness.
Q: Can I freeze the stuffing balls?
A: Absolutely! Freeze unbaked stuffing balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Adapt Grandma’s Stuffing Balls to cater to keto and low-carb lifestyles:
Keto-Friendly Adaptations:
- Substitute almond flour or coconut flour for the bread cubes to reduce carb content.
- Use a keto-approved sweetener in place of the dried fruit for a savory twist.
- Opt for keto-friendly broth and butter.
Low-Carb Variations:
- Include low-carb veggies like cauliflower or zucchini in the stuffing mixture.
- Replace the dried fruit with small amounts of berries for a touch of sweetness.
- Choose low-carb nuts like almonds or macadamias.
A Legacy in Every Bite
As you savor the golden-brown perfection of Grandma’s Stuffing Balls, remember that each bite encapsulates a legacy of love, flavor, and tradition. Let this recipe be more than a side dish—it’s a connection to the past, a bridge to the future, and a celebration of the enduring joy found in every well-crafted meal. May your table be adorned with the warmth of family and the aroma of generations past. Happy cooking
