Cozy Comforting Stuffing Balls Worth Celebrating
Delightful Homemade Stuffing Bites
From the heart of the kitchen to your table, these Cozy Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls are sure to become a cherished family favorite. Imagine a cozy Florida home filled with the aroma of warm spices and roasted bread—they take me back to my childhood, where every meal was a gathering of love and laughter. Inspired by my heritage, I bring the essence of home-cooked meals infused with soulful flavors and cherished memories. Each stuffing ball is not just food; it tells a story of connection, warmth, and the delicious art of sharing moments around the table. Let each decadent bite transport you to those joyful kitchens where food truly is love.
Quick Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 12-15 balls
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: American
- Best Season: Fall and Winter
What Makes This Dish Shine
- Irresistible Flavor: These stuffing balls are bursting with flavor from simple, fresh ingredients that will elevate any meal. Each bite reveals a delightful combination of herbs and spices that keep you reaching for more.
- Convenience Made Easy: With straightforward ingredients and simple preparation steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels. You can whip them together in no time, making them ideal for busy holiday gatherings.
- Versatile Side Dish: Not only do these stuffing balls accompany turkey wonderfully, but they also pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, chicken dinners, and vegetarian meals. A perfect fit for any occasion!
- Fun to Customize: Feel free to get creative by adding in your favorite ingredients, making each batch special in its own way. These stuffing balls become an exciting canvas for flavors, ensuring everyone finds something they love.
Essential Ingredients
- 1 bag (12–14 oz) dry seasoned bread cubes
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 2 ribs celery (finely chopped)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
- 1 ½ to 2 cups chicken broth (as needed)
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning (or a mix of sage, thyme, rosemary)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, optional for freshness)
Ingredient Insights
- Seasoned Bread Cubes: Opt for quality bread cubes for the best flavor. Day-old bread works wonderfully as it absorbs moisture better.
- Unsalted Butter: This lets you control the saltiness in the recipe. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using a low-sodium broth.
- Fresh Herbs: Feel free to use fresh herbs instead of dried for a more potent flavor. Add them in moderation to avoid overpowering the dish.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing or lining a large baking sheet to ensure easy cleanup later on.
- Sauté your vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter, then add the finely chopped onion and celery. Cook until tender, around 5–7 minutes, letting those aromatic flavors bloom.
- Mix the stuffing base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables (and the melted butter). Add poultry seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is cohesive.
- Moisten the mixture: Pour in the beaten eggs, stirring to evenly incorporate. Add chicken broth gradually until the mixture is sufficiently moist and holds together when pressed.
- Shape the balls: Scoop portions of the mixture and roll them into balls approximately the size of golf balls. Carefully place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake to perfection: Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and have a delightful crisp on the exterior.
- Serve warm: These stuffing balls are a delectable addition to your holiday table, beautifully complementing turkey, chicken, or a comforting roast dinner.
Pro Pointers for Best Results
- Choosing Your Bread: Use a mix of different types of bread, like sourdough or whole wheat, for unique flavors and textures.
- Timing Matters: Bake in batches if necessary for an even browning. If making these in advance, consider cooling them completely before storing.
- Freshness Counts: Make sure your herbs are fresh for optimal flavor. Dry herbs can also work, but reduce the amount as they are generally more concentrated.
- Keep Them Crisp: If you like a crispy texture, broil them for a couple of minutes after baking to achieve a golden crust.
Creative Recipe Variations
- Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based version.
- Spicy Addition: Add diced jalapeños for a kick or mix in chopped chipotle peppers for a smoked flavor.
- Herbaceous Delight: Try incorporating fresh rosemary or thyme to give your stuffing balls a lovely garden-fresh taste.
- Regional Twist: Infuse a taste from the Southwest by adding roasted corn and black beans for a hearty, unexpected flavor profile.
Perfect Pairing Ideas
Serve these cozy stuffing balls with roasted garlic mashed potatoes, creamy gravy, or a refreshing cranberry salad. For drinks, consider a chilled apple cider or a light-bodied red wine to complement the rich flavors.
Preparing Ahead & Freezer Tips
Make your stuffing balls in advance by preparing and shaping them, then refrigerating or freezing them. To freeze, place them on a baking sheet to firm up, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to serve, bake straight from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.
Presentation Magic
Place the warm stuffing balls on a rustic wooden platter surrounded by fresh herbs for a beautiful, inviting display. Drizzle a little homemade gravy over them or sprinkle with fresh parsley to add a pop of color.
Kitchen Secrets to Success
- Individual Portions: Keep the meatiness on the outside and a fluffier texture on the inside by rolling the balls gently.
- Taste Test: Always taste your mixture before shaping to adjust seasoning if needed.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently combine your ingredients to keep the stuffing balls light and airy.
- Explore Flavorings: Consider adding nuts or dried fruits to bring sweetness or crunch to your stuffing balls.
Best Practices for Storing and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. To reheat, place them in the microwave for quick warming or on the stovetop in a pan with a little broth to maintain moisture. To keep the texture, avoid reheating in a microwave continuously.
Common Questions Answered
- Can I use homemade bread for this recipe? Absolutely! Homemade bread gives a lovely flavor and texture to the stuffing balls.
- What if I don’t have seasoned bread cubes? You can easily make your own by cubing bread and tossing it with your favorite seasonings.
- How can I prevent them from being dry? Make sure you incorporate enough broth to keep the mixture moist but not soggy, maintaining the perfect balance.
- Can I make these gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free bread cubes and check the seasoning and broth for gluten-free labeling.
- How long will leftovers last? They can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days and frozen for up to a month.
- What should I do if there are leftovers? Try using them in a breakfast hash or in a casserole for a delicious new meal.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on exact ingredients used and portion sizes.
A Heartfelt Note
Food is truly the language of love. Each bite of these Cozy Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls carries with it memories of gathering together, sharing laughter, and the depth of flavor that comes from life and love in the kitchen. They symbolize warmth, tradition, and the joy of simple ingredients cooking together in harmony. Here’s to many more meals shared with family and friends, enriched by wonderful flavors and stories passed down through generations!
A Final Word
These Cozy Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls are not just a dish, they’re an invitation to experience the heartwarming flavors of home. As you step into your kitchen to create this delightful recipe, remember that every gathering is an opportunity for connection. Share your creations with friends, pin this recipe for later, and let your culinary journey be a flavor-filled adventure!
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Cozy Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12–15 balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful homemade stuffing bites that bring warmth and flavor to any holiday table.
Ingredients
- 1 bag (12–14 oz) dry seasoned bread cubes
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 2 ribs celery (finely chopped)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
- 1 ½ to 2 cups chicken broth (as needed)
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning (or a mix of sage, thyme, rosemary)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, optional for freshness)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease or line a large baking sheet.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter, then add the finely chopped onion and celery. Cook until tender, about 5–7 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables and melted butter. Add poultry seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until cohesive.
- Pour in the beaten eggs, stirring to evenly incorporate. Gradually add chicken broth until the mixture is sufficiently moist and holds together.
- Scoop portions of the mixture and roll them into golf ball-sized balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Serve warm, complementing turkey or chicken dinners.
Notes
Experiment with different breads and include nuts or dried fruits for added texture. Bake in batches to ensure even browning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
