If you’re craving a cozy, nostalgic dish that brings the warmth of holiday kitchens into your own home, then you absolutely have to try Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe. This classic comfort food takes traditional stuffing to a whole new level by shaping it into perfectly crisp, golden-brown spheres that are bursting with savory herbs, tender veggies, and just the right amount of buttery richness. Whether you’re making them for a festive gathering or simply to treat yourself, these stuffing balls deliver that timeless flavor with a fun, bite-sized twist that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen to create the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and aroma. Each one plays a crucial role, from the buttery onions and celery providing moisture and sweetness to the poultry seasoning weaving in warm, savory notes that make Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe so irresistible.
- 4 cups day-old bread cubes (white or sourdough): Using stale bread helps the stuffing balls hold their shape without becoming overly soggy.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and is essential for sautéing the veggies to tender perfection.
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced: Offers a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor once sautéed.
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped: Brings a fresh crunch and balance to the softness of the bread.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a bright, herbal note that lifts the whole dish.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons poultry seasoning: This classic blend is what makes Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe sing with traditional holiday flavor.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just a gentle kick to keep things interesting.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Moistens the bread cubes so each ball is tender inside without being soggy.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to hold those delicious stuffing balls together.
How to Make Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Bread Cubes
Start with day-old bread cut into small cubes. If your bread isn’t stale enough, pop the cubes onto a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until they feel firm and dry to the touch. This essential step ensures your stuffing balls will keep their shape instead of turning mushy once mixed with broth and egg. Let the cubes cool completely before moving on.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Herbs
In a skillet over medium heat, melt your butter and add the diced onion and celery. Stir often and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until the veggies soften and become translucent. Then, toss in the fresh parsley and poultry seasoning, letting the herbs marry with the veggies for about one minute. The aroma at this point is downright irresistible and sets the flavor foundation for the whole recipe.
Step 3: Combine the Mixtures
Grab a large bowl and gently toss the toasted bread cubes together with the sautéed vegetables and seasoning mix. In a separate bowl, whisk together your chicken broth and egg until smooth. Gradually pour this wet mixture over the bread and veggies, mixing carefully so the bread soaks up all the moisture without turning soggy. This balance is key to perfect stuffing balls every time.
Step 4: Shape the Stuffing Balls
With your hands slightly moistened, scoop about a handful of the mixture and shape it into a 2-inch ball. Pack the mixture just firmly enough so that the balls hold together but still stay light. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space around them for even heat circulation while baking.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Crisp
Pop the tray of stuffing balls into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Make sure to rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure each ball gets that perfect, even golden crust. When they come out crisp on the outside and tender in the center, you know Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe has worked its magic. Let them rest briefly before serving so the flavors settle beautifully.
How to Serve Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a drizzle of warm homemade gravy turns these stuffing balls into a beautiful centerpiece at the table. The color pop from herbs and the savory shine from gravy invite everyone to dig in with delight.
Side Dishes
Pair these stuffing balls with classic roasted turkey, honey-glazed carrots, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal that feels both festive and comforting. Their versatility means they fit right in alongside any traditional or contemporary side dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe on wooden skewers as an appetizer at your next holiday party. Or arrange them neatly on a platter with various dipping sauces like cranberry chutney, sage aioli, or tangy mustard to elevate the experience. Either way, they will be the star of the spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your stuffing balls, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without losing their delightful texture or flavor.
Freezing
Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe freezes wonderfully. Arrange the uncooked or baked balls on a tray and freeze until solid; then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months and make for an easy, ready-to-bake snack or side dish later on.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the stuffing balls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and crisp on the outside once again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that lovely crunchy exterior intact.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free bread for Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure the gluten-free bread you choose is sturdy enough to hold the stuffing mixture, and toast it well if it’s not already stale. This will help keep the balls from falling apart.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and ensure your poultry seasoning doesn’t contain any animal-derived ingredients. The rest of the recipe stays the same.
What if my bread cubes feel too dry or too moist?
Striking the right moisture balance is important. If the cubes are too dry, the balls might be crumbly; if too moist, they can become soggy. Toasting bread to dryness is your best bet, and be sure to slowly add broth to avoid oversaturating.
Can I add other ingredients like sausage or nuts?
Of course! Adding cooked sausage, toasted nuts, or dried cranberries can add exciting flavor and texture variations to Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe. Just adjust seasoning accordingly.
How do I know when the stuffing balls are fully cooked?
Look for a deep golden-brown crust on the outside and a tender, moist center. If they hold together well when gently pressed and smell wonderfully fragrant, they’re ready to enjoy!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe that brings both comfort and joy every single time I make it. Easy to prepare and bursting with classic flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your holiday rotation or whip up whenever you need a cozy treat. So, grab your ingredients, dust off your cooking apron, and get ready to create these delightful bites that will warm hearts and fill plates with smiles.
Print
Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls are a delightful twist on traditional stuffing, formed into easy-to-serve bite-sized balls with a crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior. Made with day-old bread, sautéed onions and celery, fresh parsley, and seasoned to perfection, these stuffing balls are baked to golden brown and make a perfect side dish for holiday meals or family dinners.
Ingredients
Stuffing Balls Ingredients
- 4 cups day-old bread cubes (white or sourdough)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 1/2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread Cubes: Begin by taking your day-old bread and cutting it into small cubes. If it’s not stale, spread the cubes on a baking sheet and toast in the oven until they are firm and dry—this will help them maintain their structure during the mixing process. Set the baking tray aside to cool before using.
- Sauté Vegetables and Seasonings: In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add your finely diced onion and chopped celery. Sauté them for about 6 to 8 minutes, or until they’re soft and translucent. Make sure to stir them regularly to prevent burning. Once softened, add in the chopped parsley and poultry seasoning, allowing them to cook for an additional minute to fully release their flavors!
- Combine Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the sautéed vegetable mixture, tossing them together gently. Next, whisk the egg and chicken broth in a separate bowl until thoroughly combined, then gradually pour it over the bread mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed, ensuring the bread is moist but not soggy.
- Shape Stuffing Balls: With moist hands, take a handful of the mixture and form it into 2-inch balls, packing them gently so they hold together well. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between them for even baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the stuffing balls for 25 to 30 minutes. Rotate the tray halfway through the baking time for even browning. Look for a beautiful golden color indicating they’re ready. Once crisp on the outside, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use day-old bread or toast fresh bread cubes to avoid soggy stuffing balls.
- Moisten your hands slightly when shaping the balls to prevent sticking.
- Rotate the baking tray halfway through cooking for even browning.
- These stuffing balls pair perfectly with homemade gravy or as a side to roasted meats.
- For a vegetarian variation, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
