Stuffing Balls

Stuffing Balls : A Modern Twist on a Classic Dish

Stuffing balls provide all the flavors of traditional stuffing but in a convenient, bite-sized form. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these savory treats are packed with flavor, easy to serve, and versatile enough to adapt to different dietary needs. Whether served as a side dish, an appetizer, or a main attraction, these stuffing balls are sure to delight your guests.

Why Stuffing Balls?

• Portable and Convenient: No more messy scooping—these balls are easy to serve and eat.
• Bursting with Flavor: Seasoned with poultry spice, onions, and celery, they deliver the comforting, nostalgic taste of traditional stuffing.
• Customizable: Add nuts, dried fruits, or even sausage to make them your own.
• Health-Conscious Options: Adapt to vegetarian, vegan, or low-sodium diets effortlessly.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

• 4 cups dry stuffing mix
• 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian options)
• 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter (or olive oil for vegan options)
• 2 large eggs, beaten (or flax eggs for vegan options)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1 tsp poultry seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins

• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked crumbled sausage

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat and Prepare

1. Set the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line the Baking Sheet: Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

2. Combine Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the stuffing mix, chicken broth, and melted butter. Stir until the mix is evenly moistened. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the liquid.
2. Add the beaten eggs, onion, celery, poultry seasoning, and optional add-ins like nuts or cranberries. Mix well.

3. Shape the Balls

1. Use your hands or a scoop to form the mixture into golf ball-sized portions.
2. Arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

4. Bake

1. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and firm to the touch.
2. Turn the baking sheet halfway through for even browning if needed.

5. Serve

1. Remove the stuffing balls from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for Customization

1. Add Meat: Incorporate cooked, crumbled sausage or bacon bits for added heartiness.
2. Go Vegan: Replace butter with olive oil, use vegetable broth, and substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg).
3. Make It Sweet: Add dried cranberries or diced apples for a touch of natural sweetness.
4. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a kick.

Serving Suggestions

• With Gravy: Serve alongside turkey or chicken with rich, savory gravy for dipping.
• As an Appetizer: Insert toothpicks into each ball for a bite-sized party treat.
• With Vegetables: Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans for a complete holiday plate.
• As a Snack: Enjoy leftovers with a dollop of cranberry sauce.

Health and Nutrition Tips

Nutritional Breakdown

Each stuffing ball (based on a batch of 12):

• Calories: ~90
• Protein: ~2g
• Fat: ~5g
• Carbs: ~10g

Healthier Substitutes

1. Whole-Grain Stuffing Mix: Boost fiber content for better digestion.
2. Low-Sodium Broth: Reduces salt intake while maintaining flavor.
3. Olive Oil: Swap for butter to reduce saturated fat.

These simple swaps make the dish suitable for heart-healthy diets or those watching their sodium intake.

FAQs

1. Can stuffing balls be made ahead?

Yes! Prepare the mixture and shape the balls up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to bake.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

3. Are stuffing balls freezer-friendly?

Yes! Freeze uncooked balls on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

4. Can I make gluten-free stuffing balls?

Absolutely. Substitute with a gluten-free stuffing mix to accommodate dietary needs.

Stuffing balls are a creative and versatile take on a holiday classic. Whether you're hosting a grand Thanksgiving feast or a casual Christmas dinner, these savory bites will steal the spotlight. Packed with flavor, easy to make, and customizable to suit any dietary needs, they’re bound to become a favorite tradition in your home.

So, gather your ingredients, get your oven ready, and enjoy the comforting taste of stuffing in every bite!