If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, nostalgic dish that brings warmth to any holiday table, look no further than Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe. These golden, perfectly seasoned morsels have a way of turning simple ingredients into a memory-filled delight. Made with buttery bread cubes, fresh herbs, and lovingly sautéed vegetables, each bite offers a perfect balance of savory flavors and irresistible crispy edges. Whether you’re a longtime fan of stuffing or discovering a new twist, this recipe is a must-try that captures the very essence of home-cooked happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether it’s adding texture, flavor, or a pop of freshness, making these stuffing balls delightfully rich yet comforting.
- 4 cups day-old bread cubes: Using day-old bread is key for absorbing flavors without turning mushy.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Butter creates that lush, savory base and helps soften the veggies perfectly.
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth.
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped: Brings a fresh crunch and balances flavors.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the stuffing with a burst of herbal freshness.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons poultry seasoning: Classic seasoning that gives the stuffing its signature warm, earthy flavor.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances and binds all the flavors together.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick without overpowering.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps the mixture moist and infuses savory depth.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold the stuffing balls together nicely.
How to Make Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Cubes
Start by cubing your day-old bread into about 1-inch pieces. If your bread isn’t quite dry enough, spread the cubes on a baking sheet and toast them lightly in the oven until firm. This ensures that they’ll soak up the liquid flavors without collapsing into a soggy mess.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced yellow onion and celery, cooking gently until they soften and release their delicious aromas—around 6 to 8 minutes. Toss in the fresh parsley and poultry seasoning and cook for just one more minute to blend those flavors beautifully.
Step 3: Combine the Mixture
Transfer the bread cubes to a large bowl, then pour in the sautéed vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together so the bread starts to absorb those savory flavors while still keeping its shape.
Step 4: Add the Broth and Egg
Whisk the egg with the chicken broth until combined, then slowly add this liquid to the bread mixture. Stir carefully until the bread is moist but not overly wet—this is the secret to achieving that perfect stuffing texture that’s soft inside with a slight crisp on the outside.
Step 5: Shape the Stuffing Balls
Using your hands, form the mixture into 2-inch balls. Pack them gently so they hold together without crumbling. This step is fun and satisfying—it’s almost like crafting little bundles of comfort.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Place the formed stuffing balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure there’s space between each ball. This allows them to cook evenly and get deliciously golden all around.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the stuffing balls at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes. About halfway through baking, rotate the pan to ensure every side crisps up beautifully. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and have a slightly crisp exterior that gives way to a tender center.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Once baked, let the stuffing balls rest for a few minutes before serving. This brief pause helps the flavors meld even further, creating the ultimate comfort bite. Serve them warm, ideally with a drizzle of rich gravy or alongside your favorite holiday dishes.
How to Serve Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe
Garnishes
To amp up presentation and texture, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the stuffing balls. A dash of grated Parmesan cheese right after baking adds a lovely salty note and fantastic visual appeal. For a little extra indulgence, a warm, savory gravy drizzled on top is pure magic.
Side Dishes
These stuffing balls pair wonderfully with classic roasted turkey, glazed ham, or savory pot roast. They also complement bright, seasonal veggies like green beans almondine or honey-roasted carrots, creating a well-rounded and festive meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these in mini cast iron skillets for a rustic touch at your dinner table. You could also arrange them on a festive platter with a dipping bowl of cranberry sauce or mushroom gravy. For a party, consider skewering a couple of stuffing balls alongside bite-size turkey bites for easy, crowd-pleasing appetizers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover stuffing balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the oven to maintain their crispness rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy.
Freezing
If you want to get ahead of your holiday prep, these stuffing balls freeze beautifully. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-friendly bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making weeknight dinners or holiday sides quick and easy.
Reheating
For reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the frozen or refrigerated stuffing balls for about 10–15 minutes or until heated through. This method helps revive their crispy exterior, making them just as delicious as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free bread for Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure your gluten-free bread is firm and day-old to help it absorb the liquid without falling apart. This swap keeps the tradition accessible for those who avoid gluten.
Is it necessary to use poultry seasoning?
Poultry seasoning brings that classic stuffing flavor that makes Grandma Dot’s recipe so special, but if you don’t have it, you can mix sage, thyme, and marjoram to achieve a similar taste profile.
Can I make these stuffing balls vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and keep the rest of the ingredients the same. They’ll still be incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
How do I keep the stuffing balls from falling apart?
The key is to not oversaturate the bread and make sure to use the egg as a binder. Gently pack the balls rather than squeezing them too tightly, and they’ll hold their shape perfectly while baking.
Can I add other ingredients like sausage or nuts?
Definitely, Grandma Dot’s recipe is a great base for creativity. Cooked sausage, toasted nuts, or dried cranberries make delightful additions that bring extra texture and flavor to these beloved stuffing balls.
Final Thoughts
Making Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe is like weaving a little tradition into your kitchen that everyone will cherish. These tender, flavorful bites are more than just a side dish—they’re a heartwarming experience that brings loved ones closer. So, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to a dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug on a chilly day. You won’t regret it!
Print
Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 stuffing balls
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls are a delightful twist on traditional stuffing, combining toasted bread cubes with a flavorful sautéed vegetable mixture, poultry seasoning, and chicken broth. These bite-sized stuffing balls are baked to golden perfection, making them a perfect handheld side dish for holiday meals or family dinners.
Ingredients
Stuffing Balls
- 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 Bread Cubes: Cube the day-old bread and let it air dry, or toast it in the oven until firm. This step ensures the bread has the right texture to absorb the liquids without becoming soggy.
- Sauté Vegetables: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the finely diced onion and chopped celery until they are soft and translucent, about 6–8 minutes. Add chopped parsley and poultry seasoning, cooking for an additional minute to blend the flavors.
- Combine Bread and Vegetable Mixture: In a large bowl, add the toasted bread cubes and pour in the sautéed onion and celery mixture. Toss gently to combine, distributing the vegetables evenly.
- Add Liquids: Whisk the egg with the chicken broth, then gradually add this mixture to the bread and vegetable mixture. Stir until the bread is moist but not soggy, ensuring an even consistency for shaping.
- Form Stuffing Balls: Form the mixture into 2-inch balls, gently packing each one so that it holds together without falling apart during baking.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the stuffing balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly to allow for air circulation and even cooking.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through. Bake until the balls are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Rest and Serve: Let the stuffing balls rest for a few minutes after baking. Serve warm alongside gravy or your favorite holiday dishes for a delicious accompaniment.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of dried sage or thyme along with poultry seasoning.
- Use day-old bread to ensure the cubes dry out enough for proper texture; fresh bread may result in soggy stuffing balls.
- These stuffing balls freeze well; bake fresh or freeze raw, then bake when needed.
- To make this vegetarian, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit the egg or replace with a flax egg.
- Ensure not to over-pack the balls to keep them light and fluffy inside.
