Stuffing Balls: Your New Favorite Holiday Side Dish

I still remember the first time I made stuffing balls—a bite-sized twist on the traditional stuffing that turned out to be the sleeper hit of Thanksgiving dinner. Golden on the outside, soft and flavorful inside—what’s not to love?

Whether you’re prepping for a big holiday feast or just want a snackable, poppable version of stuffing, this recipe brings big flavor in a small, crispy package. Let’s break it down, chef-style.

Ingredients Overview and Their Importance for Moist Stuffing & Crispy Bites

Every good stuffing ball starts with the right base. Here’s what you need to know:

Dry Stuffing Mix: The Backbone of Your Baked Stuffing Balls

• Base of the recipe—everything builds on this.
  
• Choose from: seasoned/unseasoned, cornbread stuffing, sourdough stuffing recipe, or whole wheat stuffing.
  
• Each affects moisture absorption, texture, and flavor.
  
• Tip: If using unseasoned, bump up your herb game.
  

Chicken Broth: For Moisture & Flavor Depth

• Adds moisture and savory flavor.
  
• Swap in vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, or bone broth for richness.
  
• Add gradually to avoid soggy texture.
  

Unsalted Butter: Adds Richness & Helps Bind

• Classic flavor and fat for mouthfeel.
  
• Sub in olive oil or plant-based butter for vegan-friendly versions.
  

Eggs: Binding Agent for Perfect Stuffing Ball Texture

• Essential to help hold the shape.
  
• Vegan swap: flaxseed meal or chia with water.
  

Onion & Celery: Classic Aromatics for Flavor & Crunch

• Must be finely chopped for even mixing.
  
• Sauté first for better texture and flavor.
  

Poultry Seasoning: Traditional Stuffing Flavor in One Shake

• You can also mix sage, thyme, and rosemary if needed.
  
• Optional add-ins: garlic powder, marjoram.
  

Salt, Pepper & Parsley: Finish Strong

• Salt enhances flavor; pepper adds warmth.
  
• Fresh parsley adds brightness and color.
  

Stuffing Ball Recipe: Step-by-Step for Crispy Stuffing Bites

Ingredients List

• 8 cups savory stuffing mix (your choice)
  
• 2 to 2.5 cups chicken broth (or veggie/bone broth)
  
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  
• 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan)
  
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
  
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
  
• 1 Tbsp poultry seasoning
  
• Salt and pepper to taste
  
• 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
   
2. Sauté onion and celery in 1 Tbsp butter until softened.
   
3. In a large bowl, combine stuffing mix, sautéed veg, and poultry seasoning.
   
4. In a separate bowl, whisk broth, eggs, and remaining butter.
   
5. Pour wet mixture over dry; mix and let rest 5 minutes.
   
6. Form mixture into golf-ball-sized portions.
   
7. Place on sheet with space in between. Bake 20–25 minutes until golden.
   
8. Broil last 2 minutes for extra crisp. Garnish with parsley.
   

Technique Tips for Perfect Bite-Sized Stuffing Every Time

• Let mixture rest before forming balls—this lets moisture absorb fully.
  
• Don’t overcrowd your baking sheet. It’ll steam, not sear.
  
• Want it extra crispy? Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
  
• Need more moisture? Add a splash more broth before baking.
  

How to Serve Individual Stuffing Servings for Maximum Holiday Impact

• Holiday side dish: Serve beside turkey or roast.
  
• Easy holiday appetizers: Put them on a platter with gravy or cranberry sauce.
  
• Stuffing ball recipe for buffets: Guests grab and go—no mess.
  
• Thanksgiving stuffing twist: Serve these alongside the classic version.
  

Common Mistakes with Stuffing Balls (and How to Avoid Them)

Problem	Cause	Fix
Too dry	Not enough broth	Add more broth or an extra egg
Too soggy	Too much liquid	Add breadcrumbs or bake longer
Falling apart	Not enough binder	Add another egg or let sit longer before shaping
Not crispy	Oven too cool or no broil	Bake hotter or finish under broiler

More Recipes to Try from My Kitchen

Looking for more crowd-pleasers to serve with or after your stuffing balls? Check these out:

• Savory Caramelized Onion Meatloaf
  
• Creamy No Bake Banana Caramel Dessert
  
• Country-Style Potato Salad
  
• Easy Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Bake
  
• Perfect Chicken Pot Pie
  

FAQ: All About Stuffing Balls

Conclusion & Call to Action

So, that’s it. Stuffing balls—crispy, moist, flavorful, and way more fun than your average stuffing. Try them as a holiday side dish, easy holiday appetizers, or just your new favorite comfort food.

Want more? Follow me on Pinterest for more killer recipes like this: EmilioRecipes on Pinterest

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