If you love the comforting, savory flavors of traditional stuffing but want to enjoy it in a fun, bite-sized form, this Stuffing Balls Recipe is going to steal your heart. Imagine perfectly seasoned breadcrumbs, tender onion and celery, and the warmth of herbs all baked into golden, crispy spheres that make every bite pure joy. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday feast or just want a cozy side dish that doubles as an irresistible appetizer, these stuffing balls bring a delightful twist to a classic favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to this recipe, simplicity is key, but every ingredient plays a vital role in building that perfect blend of flavor and texture. From the buttery sautéed vegetables to the fresh herbs, each component comes together to create stuffing balls that are as tasty as they are comforting.
- Butter (4 tbsp): Adds richness and helps soften the vegetables for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Onion (1 medium, finely chopped): Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the stuffing.
- Celery (1 cup, finely chopped): Offers a fresh crunch and a signature aroma.
- Dried breadcrumbs (5 cups): The essential base that absorbs all the flavors and forms the structure of the balls.
- Dried sage (1 tsp): Infuses the stuffing with that classic earthy, slightly peppery herb flavor.
- Dried thyme (1 tbsp): Adds a sweet, lemony note that complements the other herbs.
- Fresh parsley (1 cup, chopped): Provides a bright, uplifting freshness and vibrant color.
- Salt (1 tsp): Balances and enhances all the other flavors.
- Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste): Gives a gentle kick and warmth to the mix.
- Cream of mushroom soup (1 can, 14 oz): Acts as a creamy binder that keeps the balls moist and adds savory depth (can substitute cream of chicken or celery soup).
How to Make Stuffing Balls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to ensure your stuffing balls don’t stick and bake evenly. Getting the oven ready sets you up for perfect, golden-brown results.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Melt butter over medium heat in a skillet, then add the finely chopped onion and celery. Cook these until they soften, roughly 5 to 6 minutes, releasing their natural sweetness and mellow crunch. The sautéed vegetables are crucial because they infuse the whole dish with vibrant flavor and retain just the right texture.
Step 3: Cool the Mixture
Once the vegetables have cooked through, allow them to cool slightly. This prevents the residual heat from wilting your fresh herbs and keeps the breadcrumb mixture from becoming too soggy. Patience here helps maintain the perfect consistency.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together your dried breadcrumbs, dried sage, dried thyme, fresh parsley, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Add the cooled veggie mixture and pour in the cream of mushroom soup. Mix everything until it’s evenly combined but still crumbly enough to hold shape—this is the magic texture that makes these stuffing balls so delightful.
Step 5: Form the Stuffing Balls
With wet hands to prevent sticking, start shaping the mixture into balls about the size of meatballs. Placing them on the greased baking dish ensures they bake evenly without losing their shape. It’s a fun, hands-on step where your stuffing mixture transforms into irresistible little orbs of comfort.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil to trap moisture and bake the stuffing balls for 25 minutes. The foil ensures the balls stay moist while baking, resulting in a crispy outside and soft, flavorful inside—exactly what you want from a stuffing ball.
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
After baking, let the stuffing balls rest for about 5 minutes. This helps them set up a bit, making them easier to serve and enjoy. Plus, it gives you a moment to appreciate that amazing aroma filling your kitchen.
How to Serve Stuffing Balls Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few chopped chives on top brightens the stuffing balls visually and adds a fresh pop of flavor. If you want to get a little indulgent, a light drizzle of melted butter or a dusting of parmesan can bring an extra level of richness that your guests will love.
Side Dishes
Stuffing balls pair beautifully with a wide range of dishes. For a classic holiday feel, serve them alongside roast turkey or chicken and a generous helping of cranberry sauce. They also work wonderfully with autumnal veggies like roasted Brussels sprouts or glazed carrots, bringing balance to your plate with their soft, herby goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond just a plate—serve your stuffing balls on skewers as party appetizers for easy, elegant bites. Or place them in individual ramekins with a dollop of gravy on top for a cozy, made-for-one presentation. Another idea is to turn them into a stuffing ball slider, nestled inside a mini bun with some greens and sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover stuffing balls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days and are just as delicious reheated, making weeknight meals or snacks a breeze.
Freezing
These stuffing balls freeze beautifully. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready, bake them straight from the freezer with a few extra minutes added to the cooking time for a quick, convenient treat anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, pop your stuffing balls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method keeps their crispy exterior intact. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too, but you might lose some of that wonderful crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use homemade breadcrumbs instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade breadcrumbs add a lovely freshness and texture. Just make sure they’re dry and slightly toasted for best results. This will help your stuffing balls hold together perfectly.
What if I’m allergic to mushrooms—can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?
Yes, you can swap the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or celery soup, or even a homemade creamy sauce to suit your dietary needs and flavor preferences. The key is to keep that creamy binder for moisture.
How do I make these stuffing balls gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs, which are widely available now, and double-check your soup choice to ensure it’s gluten-free too. This small swap lets everyone enjoy this delicious Stuffing Balls Recipe without worry.
Can I add meat or other vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely! Diced cooked sausage, crumbled bacon, or finely chopped mushrooms can be stirred in for extra flavor. Roasted veggies like carrots or bell peppers also work well, offering delicious variations to suit your taste.
What’s the best way to make sure my stuffing balls don’t fall apart?
Make sure your mixture is moist but not too wet, and wet your hands when forming the balls to help them hold together. Using the right amount of soup as a binder and not overpacking the balls will give you that perfect balance for firm but tender stuffing balls.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Stuffing Balls Recipe — it’s comfort food in miniature, bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for holiday gatherings or just want a tasty side that feels special, these stuffing balls will quickly become a favorite in your recipe box. Give them a try and watch how everyone reaches for seconds with a smile!
Print
Stuffing Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make stuffing balls featuring classic herbs and creamy mushroom soup, baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a savory side dish for holiday meals or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped (about 4 small stalks)
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dry Ingredients
- 5 cups dried store-bought breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Dairy and Other
- 4 tbsp (1/4 cup) butter
- 1 can (14 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or substitute with cream of chicken or celery soup)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prepare for baking the stuffing balls.
- Sauté Veggies: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and celery, cooking for 5-6 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Cool Veggies: Remove the skillet from heat and allow the cooked onions and celery mixture to cool slightly before mixing.
- Mix Stuffing: In a large bowl, combine the dried breadcrumbs, dried sage, dried thyme, chopped parsley, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir in the cooled vegetable mixture along with the cream of mushroom soup until everything is well combined and the mixture is crumbly but holds together.
- Form Balls: Wet your hands to prevent sticking and form the mixture into meatball-sized balls. Arrange them in the prepared baking dish evenly spaced.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil to retain moisture and bake the stuffing balls in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until heated through and slightly golden on the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the foil and let the stuffing balls rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to set.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with a plant-based margarine and choose a suitable soup alternative.
- You can use homemade breadcrumbs if preferred; about 5 cups loosely packed.
- Adjust seasoning to taste especially salt and pepper depending on the saltiness of the soup used.
- These stuffing balls can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cold from the fridge.
- Serve as a side dish alongside roasted meats, turkey, or as part of a vegetarian festive platter.
