-
Homemade or store-bought gravy
-
Cranberry sauce (optional, for a sweet contrast)
🍳 Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Cut the day-old bread into small cubes, about ½ inch in size. Spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until lightly crisp and dry (but not browned).
If your bread is already dry, you can skip this step — just make sure it’s not too soft, or the stuffing will become mushy.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant. Add the garlic, poultry seasoning, sage, and thyme, and cook for another minute to release their aroma.
If you’re using sausage or mushrooms, this is the time to add them. Cook until browned and any excess moisture has evaporated.
Step 3: Mix the Stuffing Base
Place the toasted bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Pour the sautéed vegetable mixture over the bread and toss to combine.
Add parsley, salt, and pepper. Gradually pour in the warm broth, stirring gently so that the bread absorbs the liquid evenly.
The mixture should be moist but not soggy — it should hold together when squeezed but not drip liquid. Adjust by adding more broth a tablespoon at a time if needed.
Step 4: Add the Eggs
Once the mixture has cooled slightly (so it doesn’t scramble the eggs), add the beaten eggs and mix thoroughly. The eggs act as a binder, ensuring your stuffing balls stay firm while remaining tender inside.
Step 5: Shape the Balls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Using your hands or an ice cream scoop, form the stuffing mixture into golf ball–sized rounds (about 2 inches in diameter). Place them about 1 inch apart on the baking sheet. You should get about 18–20 stuffing balls depending on size.
If the mixture feels sticky, dampen your hands slightly with water before rolling.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the stuffing balls are golden brown and crisp on the outside. For extra crunch, you can broil them for the last 1–2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the stuffing balls warm, arranged on a platter with gravy for dipping or a side of cranberry sauce.
If you’re serving them as part of a main meal, they make the perfect accompaniment to roast turkey, chicken, or pork.
🍽 Presentation Ideas
-
Festive Platter: Arrange stuffing balls on a large serving tray with small bowls of gravy, cranberry sauce, or herbed butter for dipping.
-
Elegant Appetizer: Skewer individual stuffing balls on cocktail picks and drizzle lightly with gravy — perfect for finger food at holiday parties.
-
Family-Style Serving: Pile them high in a rustic bowl or cast-iron skillet, garnished with sprigs of rosemary or parsley for a cozy, homey look.
ADVERTISEMENT
