Stuffing Balls – A Family-Favorite Thanksgiving Side

 


How to Make Stuffing Balls (Step by Step)

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F and prepare a baking sheet with nonstick spray or parchment.

  2. Sauté aromatics: Melt butter in a skillet, add onions, and cook 10 minutes. Add celery, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper; cook 5 more minutes. Remove from heat.

  3. Mix bread & cornbread stuffing: In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with cornbread stuffing.

  4. Add egg & broth: Stir in the beaten egg and ¾ cup chicken broth.

  5. Combine everything: Mix in the sautéed vegetables and herbs.

  6. Form into balls: Using your hands, shape into small balls and place on prepared baking sheet.

  7. Bake: Bake for 20 minutes. Remove, gently pour the remaining chicken broth over them, then bake another 15 minutes.

  8. Serve & enjoy: Crispy, golden, and irresistible!


What to Serve With Stuffing Balls

  • Roast turkey or chicken

  • Pork chops or roast pork tenderloin

  • Green beans, glazed carrots, or Brussels sprouts

  • Mashed potatoes & gravy

  • Cranberry sauce for a tart contrast


Tips for Success

  • Don’t over-soak the bread—just moist enough to hold together.

  • Shape balls tightly so they don’t fall apart while baking.

  • Make smaller ones for appetizers or larger ones for a hearty side.

  • Want extra crisp? Place them on a wire rack over the baking sheet.


Storage & Make-Ahead Instructions

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze unbaked stuffing balls for up to 1 month; bake straight from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes.

  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until hot and crisp.


FAQs About Stuffing Balls

Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the mixture, shape into balls, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use only cornbread stuffing?
Absolutely, but mixing it with regular bread gives a better balance of texture.

Can I make them vegetarian?
Yes—swap chicken broth for vegetable broth.


Nutritional Information (per ball, approx.)

  • Calories: 120

  • Carbohydrates: 18g

  • Protein: 4g

  • Fat: 4g

  • Fiber: 2g


Bringing It All Together

These stuffing balls are more than just a recipe—they’re tradition, comfort, and celebration rolled into one. Whether you’re setting a Thanksgiving table or serving them with Sunday dinner, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles. Crispy on the outside, soft inside, and brimming with flavor… what’s not to love?