If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines classic flavors with an easy, fun twist, this Stuffing Balls Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the warm, herb-infused aroma filling your kitchen as you bite into golden, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside balls packed with all the cozy goodness of traditional stuffing. Perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or any cozy meal, these stuffing balls bring a nostalgic favorite into an irresistible handheld treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and balance. Each ingredient is chosen to bring a harmony of flavors and textures that make these stuffing balls truly special—from the aromatic herbs to the rich, creamy binding ingredient. Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious bites come to life:
- 4 tbsp (1/4 cup) butter: Adds a silky richness and helps sauté the aromatic vegetables to perfection.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Brings a sweet, savory base that softens to melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped (about 4 small stalks): Offers a gentle crunch and fresh, fragrant notes.
- 5 cups dried store-bought breadcrumbs: The foundation that gives structure and a satisfyingly crumbly texture to the balls.
- 1 tsp dried sage: Provides a warm, earthy herb flavor classic to any stuffing dish.
- 1 tbsp dried thyme: Adds a hint of lemony brightness that complements the savory herbs.
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Injects fresh green color and a mild, peppery punch.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors seamlessly.
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste: Brings subtle heat and aroma to balance the dish.
- 1 can (14 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or substitute with cream of chicken or celery soup): Acts as a creamy binder, adding moisture and richness that keeps the balls tender and delicious.
How to Make Stuffing Balls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a baking dish. This simple prep sets the stage for an even bake that will give your stuffing balls a perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Melt butter in a medium skillet over medium heat and add your finely chopped onions and celery. Cook them gently for about 5 to 6 minutes until they turn soft and fragrant. This step brings out the sweetness and softness essential to the dish’s flavor and texture.
Step 3: Cool the Veggies
Once cooked, let your vegetables cool slightly. This little pause keeps the next steps smooth, preventing the soup from becoming too warm and ensuring the texture stays just right when mixed with the breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Mix the Stuffing
In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, dried sage, dried thyme, fresh parsley, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir in the cooled sautéed vegetables and the can of creamy mushroom soup. Mix well until everything is evenly combined and has a nicely crumbly yet cohesive texture – this mixture is the heart of your stuffing balls.
Step 5: Form the Stuffing Balls
Wet your hands slightly to stop the mixture from sticking and shape it into balls about the size of meatballs. This is a fun step where the mixture comes together in your hands—make them uniform for even cooking. Place each formed ball in the prepared baking dish, spacing them comfortably.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil to keep the moisture locked in and bake for 25 minutes. The foil traps the steam, helping the stuffing balls cook through while keeping them tender and moist inside.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
After baking, let the stuffing balls rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps them firm up slightly so they hold together beautifully when served but stay soft and flavorful inside. Now they’re ready to delight your guests!
How to Serve Stuffing Balls Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a simple garnish can elevate your stuffing balls from delicious to dazzling. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of finely grated Parmesan for visual appeal and an extra burst of flavor that complements the herbs already inside.
Side Dishes
Stuffing balls pair wonderfully with classic holiday sides. Think creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a vibrant cranberry sauce for a touch of sweet tartness. These sides round out the plate, making the meal hearty and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling creative? Serve your stuffing balls on a platter with dipping sauces like a savory gravy or a tangy mustard aioli. You can even thread them on skewers for a fun appetizer or party snack that guests can grab and enjoy without fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store the stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them an excellent option for next-day meals or snacks.
Freezing
This Stuffing Balls Recipe freezes beautifully. Freeze the uncooked balls on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time, for quick, comforting bites anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispy exterior and warmth. Avoid microwaving when possible to keep the texture just right.
FAQs
Can I make this Stuffing Balls Recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the store-bought breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones or use crushed gluten-free crackers. The recipe will work just as well and still deliver fantastic flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
No worries! You can substitute with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup, or even make a quick homemade white sauce to keep them moist and flavorful.
Can I add meat to the stuffing balls?
Yes, you can! Adding cooked sausage or bacon bits to the mixture adds savory depth and a nice contrast in texture. Just make sure any meat you add is fully cooked before mixing.
How do I make the stuffing balls crispier?
For extra crispiness, uncover the stuffing balls for the last 5 to 10 minutes of baking to let the tops brown beautifully. You can also lightly brush them with butter before baking.
Are these stuffing balls suitable for vegetarians?
Definitely! Just use a vegetarian-friendly soup and butter, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Stuffing Balls Recipe is a surefire way to turn a beloved holiday classic into a fun, handheld treat. Whether you’re making them for a special family dinner or a casual gathering, these balls of flavorful goodness promise to bring warmth and smiles to the table. Give them a try—you might just discover your new favorite comfort food!
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Stuffing Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make stuffing balls baked to golden perfection, combining savory herbs, sautéed veggies, and creamy mushroom soup for a comforting side dish perfect for holiday meals or everyday dinners.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped (about 4 small stalks)
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dry Ingredients
- 5 cups dried store-bought breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Other Ingredients
- 4 tbsp (1/4 cup) butter
- 1 can (14 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or substitute with cream of chicken or celery soup)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prepare for baking the stuffing balls.
- Sauté Veggies: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and celery, cooking them until softened, which should take about 5 to 6 minutes. This step enhances flavor by softening and bringing out sweetness in the vegetables.
- Cool Veggies: Remove the skillet from heat and allow the cooked onion and celery mixture to cool slightly. This prevents the soup from cooking prematurely when mixed with dry ingredients.
- Mix Stuffing: In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs, dried sage, dried thyme, chopped parsley, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir in the cooled vegetable mixture and the cream of mushroom soup until everything is evenly mixed and the texture is crumbly but holds together.
- Form Balls: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking and shape the stuffing mixture into meatball-sized balls. Place each ball carefully into the prepared greased baking dish, spacing them evenly.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake the stuffing balls in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, allowing them to cook through and develop a tender texture.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the foil and let the stuffing balls rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting time helps them set and improves flavor absorption.
Notes
- You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or celery soup according to your taste preferences.
- To make the balls firmer, consider adding an egg or slightly more breadcrumbs.
- If you prefer a crispier exterior, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- These stuffing balls can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated, then baked fresh before serving.
