Name: Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls That Everyone Will Love
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 14 oz Day-old Bread (Cut into small cubes); 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter (Essential for flavor and achieving a crispy exterior); 2 large Eggs (Helps the stuffing balls hold shape); 1 medium Onion (Finely chopped); 1 cup Celery (Finely chopped); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced, adjust according to taste); 1 tbsp Poultry Seasoning or Herbs (Sage and thyme; use preferred herbs); to taste Salt (Essential for flavor enhancement); to taste Black Pepper (Essential for flavor enhancement); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (Chopped for a pop of color); 1 cup Chicken or Turkey Broth (Keeps the stuffing blend moist); 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Optional for richness)

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As I stood in my kitchen surrounded by the warm scents of herbs and butter, I thought about the years I’ve spent perfecting my holiday recipes. This year, I’m excited to share my Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls, a make-ahead treat that brings a twist to our beloved classic stuffing. Imagine a crispy, golden exterior giving way to a soft, flavorful center—these bite-sized morsels are not just a festive side dish; they’re the perfect appetizer for your holiday gatherings. With endless possibilities for customization, including savory sausage or sweet cranberries, you can tailor them to satisfy all your guests. Plus, they allow you to save precious time by prepping in advance! Isn’t it time to elevate your holiday menu? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why Are Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls So Irresistible?

Deliciously Customizable: These stuffing balls offer endless mix-in possibilities, letting you personalize them with crispy bacon, seasonal herbs, or even a touch of spice.

Make-Ahead Convenience: No need to scramble last minute! Prepare them a day in advance or freeze to make holiday hosting a breeze.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfectly sized for snacking, they are great for gatherings; everyone loves a tasty bite that’s easy to enjoy while mingling.

Texture Perfection: With a golden, crispy exterior and soft, savory interior, they provide a delightful contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Versatile Serving Options: Serve them with rich gravy or sweet cranberry sauce for a delectable twist. Looking for more ideas? Try pairing with Sticky Mongolian Meatballs for an exciting spread!

Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls Ingredients

• Dive into the delicious components!

For the Base

Day-old Bread – Use about 14 oz of bread cut into small cubes for optimal texture—fresh bread will become soggy.
Unsalted Butter – Essential for flavor and achieving a crispy exterior.
Large Eggs – Helps the stuffing balls hold shape; do not omit.

For the Flavor

Onion – Finely chopped for even distribution within the stuffing.
Celery – Finely chopped; contributes to the classic stuffing flavor.
Garlic – Minced to add depth of flavor; adjust amount according to taste.
Poultry Seasoning or Herbs (sage and thyme) – Use whichever is preferred; fresh herbs add aromatic flair.
Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for overall flavor enhancement; adjust to taste.
Fresh Parsley – Chopped for a pop of color and freshness.

For Moisture and Richness

Chicken or Turkey Broth – Keeps the stuffing blend moist but ensure it’s not overly wet; add more as necessary.
Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds richness, but can be omitted for a lighter option.

These Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls are sure to impress with their delightful taste and texture, making them a standout dish this holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Prepare Bread Base
Spread day-old bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet and place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C). Toast the bread for 10–12 minutes until they are dry but not browned. This step helps achieve the perfect texture for your Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls, ensuring they won’t become soggy when mixed with the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook Veggies
In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This mixture will enhance the flavor of your stuffing balls, bringing warmth and depth to every bite.

Step 3: Mix Stuffing
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, poultry seasoning, salt, black pepper, chopped parsley, and optional grated Parmesan cheese. Use a spatula to mix these ingredients thoroughly. Then, crack in 2 large eggs and gradually pour in enough chicken or turkey broth until the mixture is moist but not soggy, creating a perfect consistency for forming stuffing balls.

Step 4: Shape Balls
With damp hands (to prevent sticking), scoop out portions of the stuffing mixture and shape them into balls roughly the size of golf balls. Arrange the formed balls on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Ensure they are packed tightly but not overly compressed, as this will help them achieve a delightful texture when baked.

Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and carefully place the baking sheet with the stuffing balls inside. Bake for 20–25 minutes, keeping an eye on them as they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. They should look perfectly toasted and have a lovely aroma, signaling that your Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls are almost ready.

Step 6: Serve Warm
Once baked, remove the Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Transfer them to a serving platter and enjoy warm, perfect for dipping into rich gravy or sweet cranberry sauce. These delightful bites are now ready to impress your guests and complete your holiday spread!

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls are perfect for busy holiday planners looking to save time! You can prepare the stuffing balls up to 24 hours in advance by assembling and refrigerating them. Simply follow the shaping instructions and arrange them on a baking sheet. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to maintain their moisture and flavor. When you’re ready to serve, just preheat your oven and bake them as directed, adding a few extra minutes if they’re coming straight from the fridge. Alternatively, for longer storage, freeze unbaked stuffing balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, extending the cooking time by about 5–7 minutes, ensuring they remain just as delicious!

How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for best results.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked stuffing balls on a tray for a couple of hours, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the cooking time.

Prepping Ahead: Assemble your Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls a day in advance and refrigerate. This saves time on busy holiday mornings, allowing you to enjoy stress-free entertaining!

Avoiding Sogginess: Ensure the stuffing mixture is moist, but not too wet. If they crumble, add a splash more broth; if too wet, a few extra breadcrumbs will rescue the texture!

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls

Bread Choice Matters: Use day-old bread only; fresh bread can make your stuffing balls too soggy. Drying them out ensures the perfect texture!
Don’t Overmix: When combining all ingredients, mix just until melded to avoid tough stuffing balls. Gentle mixing makes them tender and fluffy.
Moisture Check: If the mixture is too dry and crumbles, add a splash more broth. If it’s too wet, incorporate more breadcrumbs to achieve the right consistency for your Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls.
Prep Ahead: Assemble the stuffing balls a day in advance and refrigerate, or freeze them for later use. Bake just before serving to save time!
Experiment Freely: Feel free to incorporate different mix-ins like cranberries or sausage. This customization caters to your taste and makes each batch unique!

Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and make these stuffing balls your own with exciting variations!

Sausage Stuffing Balls: Incorporate cooked, crumbled sausage to enhance flavor and heartiness. Each bite becomes a savory delight!
Cranberry-Pecan Stuffing Balls: Add sweetness with dried cranberries and a crunchy twist from chopped pecans, creating a festive flavor profile.
Cheesy Stuffing Balls: Fold in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan for a melty, rich indulgence. This twist adds a layer of comforting goodness.
Herb-Lovers Variation: Boost the fresh herbs like sage, thyme, and parsley for a more aromatic stuffing ball that tantalizes taste buds. Fresh herbs elevate every bite.
Spicy Kick: Mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a warm, zesty touch. Ideal for guests who enjoy a bit of heat!
Vegetarian Option: Swap out broth for vegetable stock and skip the sausage for a fully vegetarian dish. Full of rich flavors without the meat!
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free bread to cater to dietary restrictions while still enjoying delectable stuffing balls. They won’t sacrifice taste!
Mixed Herb & Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest along with fresh herbs for a bright note that complements the savory ingredients beautifully.

With these variations, your Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls can go from classic to innovative with just a few simple changes. For more delightful meatball recipes, consider trying Vodka Sauce Meatballs for an irresistible twist to your holiday spread!

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls

Creating a complete holiday feast is all about balancing flavors, textures, and heartwarming accompaniments.

Cranberry Sauce: This sweet-tart condiment adds a refreshing contrast, enhancing the savory flavors of the stuffing balls beautifully.
Rich Gravy: A classic choice for drizzling over your stuffing balls, adding moistness and a comforting touch to each bite.
Green Bean Almondine: Tender green beans topped with crispy almonds introduce a fresh crunch, brightening up the holiday plate wonderfully.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky potatoes make the perfect base for soaking up gravy, offering a hearty and comforting pairing.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized and slightly charred, these veggies lend a delightful bitterness that complements the richness of your stuffing balls.
Wild Rice Salad: Featuring earthy grains and seasonal veggies, this salad adds texture and a nutritious element to your holiday spread.
Pumpkin Soup: Serve warm bowls of pumpkin soup as a starter; it’s a cozy way to set the mood for the feast to come.
Sparkling Cider: A festive drink option that brightens the table and pairs perfectly with the scrumptious flavors of the feast.
Apple Crisp: End the meal on a sweet note with this warm dessert, balancing the savory richness of the stuffing balls.

Elevate your holiday dining experience by thoughtfully pairing these dishes to create an inviting and memorable table!

Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls Recipe FAQs

What type of bread is best for Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls?
Absolutely! For optimal texture, use 14 oz of day-old bread cut into small cubes. Fresh bread tends to become soggy, ruining the crispiness we all love. If you’re unsure about your bread, look for one that feels firm and has a nice crust.

How should I store leftovers of Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until they are warmed through—this helps restore that crispy texture. Microwave reheating often leads to sogginess, so bake when possible!

Can I freeze Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls?
Absolutely! To freeze, place unbaked stuffing balls on a baking tray and freeze them for a couple of hours until frozen solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. You can bake them directly from frozen; just add an extra 5-7 minutes to the cooking time. This makes holiday prep a breeze!

What if my stuffing mixture is too dry or too wet?
No worries! If your mixture feels crumbly, simply add a splash more broth to bring it together. Conversely, if it’s too wet, mix in a bit more breadcrumbs until you achieve the right consistency. Aim for moist but not soggy—that’s key for your Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls to hold their shape and taste amazing!

Are Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls suitable for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! You can tailor this recipe to fit gluten-free diets by using gluten-free bread without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, consider leaving out the cheese or using dairy-free alternatives if needed. Always check ingredient labels to be sure, especially if guests have allergies.

How can I customize my Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls?
The more the merrier! Mix in your favorite ingredients, like crumbled sausage for savory depth, dried cranberries for sweetness, or even chopped nuts for a bit of crunch. Fresh herbs like thyme and sage can also elevate the flavor. Don’t hesitate to experiment until you find your perfect combination!