Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, delicious food. One of the most loved dishes during this festive holiday is stuffing. This Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls recipe takes a classic dish and transforms it into bite-sized delights that are perfect for sharing. These flavorful balls are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, bringing all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffing in an easy-to-eat form.

Why make this recipe

This recipe stands out because it’s a fun twist on conventional stuffing. It’s easy to make, and everyone can enjoy it as a finger food. Whether you’re hosting a big family dinner or a small gathering, these stuffing balls are sure to impress your guests. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making your holiday cooking less stressful. You get all the warmth of stuffing with the added crunch and convenience of a ball shape.

How to prepare Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls

Ingredients:

1 loaf (about 14 oz) day-old bread, cut into small cubes (about 8 cups)
1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 celery stalks, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp poultry seasoning (or 1 tsp sage + 1 tsp thyme)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 ½ cups chicken or turkey broth (add more if needed)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

Steps:

Prepare Bread Base
- Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet.
- Toast in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–12 minutes until dry but not browned. Set aside.
Cook Veggies
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the onion, celery, and garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant (about 6–8 minutes).
Mix Stuffing
- In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, cooked vegetables, poultry seasoning, salt, pepper, parsley, and Parmesan (if using).
- Stir in the eggs.
- Slowly pour in the broth, mixing until the bread is moist and holds together when pressed (but not soggy).
Shape the Balls
- With damp hands, form the mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball.
- Place on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and crisp on the outside.

How to serve Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls

These stuffing balls can be served as an appetizer or a side dish. Arrange them on a platter and let your guests help themselves. They pair wonderfully with turkey, cranberry sauce, or even on their own with a nice dip.

How to store Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls

Leftover stuffing balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

Tips to make Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls perfectly

Use day-old bread: Fresh bread can make the stuffing too moist. Day-old bread adds the right texture.
Customize your herbs: Feel free to mix and match herbs based on your preferences. Thyme, rosemary, or even oregano can add great flavor.
Consistency is key: Ensure the mixture holds together but is not too wet. Adjust the broth as needed.

Variations

Add Fruits: Diced apples or dried cranberries can give a sweet twist.
Meat Option: Add cooked sausage or bacon for a hearty version.
Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken or turkey broth.

FAQ

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep them the day before, form the balls, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can I freeze stuffing balls?
Yes! Freeze them before baking, and bake directly from frozen. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls?
They go well with turkey, gravy, cranberry sauce, or even a nice dipping sauce like ranch or a yogurt dip.

Enjoy making these Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls and watch as they become a new favorite at your holiday gatherings!

Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls

Print Recipe

Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these bite-sized Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls bring all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffing in a fun, shareable form.

Author: tahiriimouhsingmail-com
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–12 minutes until dry but not browned. Set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant (about 6–8 minutes).
In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, cooked vegetables, poultry seasoning, salt, pepper, parsley, and Parmesan (if using). Stir in the eggs. Slowly pour in the broth, mixing until the bread is moist and holds together when pressed (but not soggy).
With damp hands, form the mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball. Place on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and crisp on the outside.

Notes

Leftover stuffing balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Use day-old bread for the right texture.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 300
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 550mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Thanksgiving, stuffing, appetizer, holiday recipe, finger food