Description
These Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls are a fun twist on a holiday classic. Seasoned bread stuffing is shaped into bite-sized balls and baked until golden and crispy on the outside while staying soft and flavorful inside. Serve them as a Thanksgiving side dish or a festive appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf (about 14 oz) day-old bread, cut into small cubes (about 8 cups)
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning (or 1 teaspoon sage and 1 teaspoon thyme)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1½ cups chicken or turkey broth, plus more if needed
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet. Toast in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–12 minutes, until dry but not browned. Set aside.
- Cook the vegetables: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 6–8 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
- Mix the stuffing: In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, cooked vegetables, poultry seasoning, salt, pepper, parsley, and Parmesan if using.
- Add the eggs and broth: Stir in the beaten eggs. Slowly pour in the broth, mixing until the bread is moist and holds together when pressed. Add a little more broth if needed, but avoid making the mixture soggy.
- Shape the balls: With damp hands, form the stuffing mixture into golf-ball-sized portions. Place them on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the stuffing balls are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Serve: Let them cool slightly, then serve warm as a holiday side dish or appetizer.
Notes
- Day-old bread works best because it absorbs the broth without becoming mushy.
- If your bread is fresh, toast it a little longer until thoroughly dry.
- Add broth gradually. The mixture should hold together when pressed but should not be soggy.
- Damp hands make shaping the stuffing balls easier and help prevent sticking.
- Parmesan is optional but adds a savory, cheesy flavor.
- For extra crispiness, leave a little space between the balls on the baking sheet.
- Serve warm with gravy or alongside your favorite Thanksgiving dishes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American