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BEST STUFFING BALLS

BEST STUFFING BALLS

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r the best results. French bread, sourdough, or even whole wheat will work.

  • 1 cup unsalted butter: For sautéing the vegetables and adding richness to the stuffing mixture.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped: For a classic stuffing flavor.
  • 2-3 celery stalks, chopped: Adds a nice crunch and flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: For a savory touch.
  • 2 teaspoons dried sage: Sage is the star herb in most stuffing recipes, bringing that earthy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Complements the sage for a balanced flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon salt: To taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a touch of spice.
  • 2 cups chicken broth: To moisten the bread cubes and bring everything together.
  • 2 large eggs: These will help bind everything together and form your stuffing balls.
  • Fresh parsley (optional): For a fresh flavor and a pop of color.

    • Instructions:

    1. Prepare the Bread Cubes

    Start by cutting your loaf of bread into small cubes. You’ll need about 10 cups of bread cubes. If the bread is fresh, you can let it sit out for a few hours to dry out slightly, or you can toast it lightly in the oven to make it more firm and absorbent.

    2. Sauté the Vegetables

    In a large skillet, melt 1 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the sage, thyme, salt, and pepper, cooking for another minute until the herbs are fragrant.

    3. Combine the Bread and Vegetables

    In a large mixing bowl, place the bread cubes. Pour the sautéed vegetable and herb mixture over the bread. Toss everything together to ensure the bread cubes are well coated with the buttery, herby goodness.

    4. Add the Broth and Eggs

    Pour 2 cups of chicken broth over the bread mixture, stirring to combine. The bread should absorb the liquid but not become soggy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing to incorporate them into the stuffing. The eggs will help bind everything together so you can easily form the stuffing balls.

    5. Form the Stuffing Balls

    Using your hands or a spoon, form the stuffing mixture into small balls, about 1 ½ to 2 inches in diameter. If the mixture is a bit too dry to hold together, add a splash more broth until you achieve the right consistency.

    6. Bake the Stuffing Balls

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffing balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

    7. Serve and Enjoy

    Once baked, let the stuffing balls cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of color and flavor, if desired. Serve these irresistible stuffing balls alongside your favorite holiday dishes, and watch as your guests go back for seconds!

    Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:

    • Sausage: Add crumbled cooked sausage to the stuffing mixture for a rich, savory flavor.
    • Bacon: Crispy bacon bits will give the stuffing balls a smoky, salty kick.
    • Dried Cranberries or Raisins: For a sweet contrast to the savory elements, consider adding dried fruit.
    • Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or mozzarella cheese can add richness and melt into the stuffing balls for extra flavor.
    • Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add texture and a nutty flavor.

    Make-Ahead Tips:

    • Assemble and Refrigerate: You can prepare the stuffing balls the day before and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes meal prep a breeze on the day of your event.
    • Freezing Option: If you’re preparing for a larger event or holiday, you can freeze the uncooked stuffing balls. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them into the oven (no need to thaw), and bake them for an extra 10-15 minutes.

    Why These Stuffing Balls Are the Best:

    What sets these stuffing balls apart from regular stuffing is the perfect combination of texture and flavor. The crispy outer layer provides a satisfying crunch, while the inside remains soft and flavorful, with the rich taste of butter, savory herbs, and just the right amount of seasoning. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish at a holiday dinner or as a tasty appetizer, these stuffing balls will surely be the star of the meal.

    The best part? These stuffing balls are fully customizable to your tastes. From adding meats to experimenting with different seasonings, the recipe offers endless possibilities for making them your own.

    Conclusion:

    The Best Stuffing Balls are a fun and delicious twist on traditional stuffing, offering all the flavors you love in a bite-sized, easy-to-serve form. With a crispy exterior and a moist, savory interior, they’re perfect for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or any time you want to impress your guests with a simple yet extraordinary side dish. Try them out for your next meal, and get ready to see your guests reach for more!