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Make-Ahead Stuffing Balls

Make-Ahead Stuffing Balls
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Make-Ahead Stuffing Balls combine classic holiday flavors with convenient preparation. These bite-sized treats feature a savory mix of stale bread, herbs, sautéed onions and celery, and rich seasonings. Easy to prepare in advance and bake when needed, they make an ideal appetizer, side dish, or snack suitable for any festive occasion, loved by guests of all ages.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 4 cups stale bread cubes or breadcrumbs

Aromatics

  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 1 cup diced celery

Herbs & Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Liquids & Binders

  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Optional Add-ins

  • 1/2 cup diced mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup cooked sausage, diced
  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar or parmesan cheese
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño (for spice)
  • 1/2 cup chopped apples (for sweet variation)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread Base: Cube stale bread or measure out breadcrumbs to serve as the foundation. The dry bread soaks up liquids and herbs, creating ideal stuffing texture.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a pan, melt butter and cook diced onion and celery over medium heat until soft and fragrant, building a flavorful aromatic base.
  3. Mix Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, sautéed onions and celery, fresh parsley, sage, thyme, beaten eggs, broth, salt, pepper, and any optional add-ins. Mix gently until evenly incorporated but not overmixed to keep texture light.
  4. Form into Balls: Scoop and roll the mixture between your hands to form uniform balls approximately 1.5 inches in diameter, ensuring even cooking and perfect bite size.
  5. Chill and Bake: Arrange stuffing balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow flavors to meld and balls to firm up. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until golden and crispy outside, about 25-30 minutes, turning if desired. Brush with melted butter before baking for extra crispness and shine.

Notes

  • Use day-old or stale bread to absorb moisture better and prevent sogginess.
  • Do not overmix to maintain a light, tender texture.
  • Chill balls before baking to help them hold their shape.
  • Bake on parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
  • Brush with melted butter before baking for a glossy, crispy finish.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffing balls, holiday appetizer, make-ahead stuffing, party snack, gluten-free stuffing, holiday side dish

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/make-ahead-stuffing-balls/