Description
Golden-Brown Stuffing Balls Recipe
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) ground sausage (optional, for added flavor)
3 cups (375 g) stuffing mix (any variety)
1 cup (240 ml) chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 cup (120 ml) unsalted butter, melted
1 small onion, finely diced
2 celery stalks, finely diced
1 medium carrot, finely diced
2 large eggs, beaten
1 tsp dried sage (or your preferred herbs)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Non-stick cooking spray
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray.
Sauté Aromatics (Optional for Sausage Version):
In a skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside.
Using the same skillet, sauté the diced onion, celery, and carrot until softened, about 5 minutes. If skipping sausage, use 1 tbsp butter or oil for sautéing.
Prepare the Stuffing Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the stuffing mix, cooked sausage (if using), sautéed vegetables, garlic powder, and dried sage.
Pour in the melted butter, beaten eggs, and chicken broth. Stir until everything is well moistened. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to absorb the liquid.
Shape into Balls:
Using your hands, form the mixture into golf ball-sized rounds. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake:
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
Serve: Serve warm as a side dish or appetizer. These pair perfectly with gravy, cranberry sauce, or as part of a holiday feast.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect stuffing balls every time. First, ensure all vegetables are finely and uniformly diced for even cooking. Preheat your oven and prepare the baking sheet as directed. If using sausage, cook it thoroughly, then use the rendered fat to sauté your vegetables, which builds a deep flavor base. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just incorporated—overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Let the mixture rest for the full 5 minutes; this is crucial for the bread to absorb the liquid fully. When shaping, dampen your hands slightly to prevent sticking and aim for consistent, compact 1.5-inch balls. Bake on the middle rack, rotating the sheet halfway through, until they achieve a deep, golden-brown crust.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile stuffing balls are more than just a side. For holiday dinners, serve them in a basket lined with a napkin alongside roast turkey and gravy. As an appetizer, present them on a platter with small cups of cranberry sauce, gravy, or a honey-mustard dip for dipping. For a complete meal, pair them with a simple roasted chicken and a green salad. They also make excellent leftovers; reheat them in an air fryer or toaster oven to restore their crisp exterior and enjoy with breakfast eggs or in a lunch bowl with leftover vegetables.
How-to Summary
In brief: Sauté vegetables (and optional sausage). Combine all ingredients in a bowl and let sit for 5 minutes. Shape into 1.5-inch balls. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the mixture, shape the balls, and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian? Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth. Ensure your stuffing mix is vegetarian-friendly, as some contain chicken flavoring.
My mixture is too wet/dry. How can I fix it? If too wet, add a handful more dry stuffing mix. If too dry, add an extra tablespoon or two of broth. The ideal consistency should hold together firmly when squeezed.
Can I freeze stuffing balls? Absolutely. Bake them completely, let them cool, then freeze in a single layer on a sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? To maintain crispiness, avoid the microwave. Reheat in a 350°F oven, air fryer, or toaster oven for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Rest Time: Not letting the mixture sit prevents the bread from absorbing the liquid, leading to dry or crumbly balls.
- Over-Packing the Balls: Squeezing the mixture too tightly creates dense, heavy stuffing balls. Handle gently but firmly.
- Uneven Vegetable Sizes: Large chunks of onion or celery won’t soften properly during the quick bake, creating unpleasant texture.
- Using Cold Broth or Butter: Adding cold liquids can cause the butter to solidify, making mixing difficult. Use warmed broth and melted butter.
- Crowding the Baking Sheet: Placing balls too close together steams them instead of baking. Ensure at least an inch of space between each.
Conclusion
These golden-brown stuffing balls are a simple yet impressive addition to any table. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master a dish that’s bursting with savory flavor and perfect texture. Their make-ahead and freezer-friendly nature makes them a practical choice for busy hosts. Whether served as a festive side, a party appetizer, or a creative use for leftovers, they are sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!