Stuffing isn’t just a side dish—it’s the heart of a comforting, home-cooked meal. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy Sunday dinner, stuffing brings warmth and nostalgia to the table. But let’s be honest: Spooning it onto your plate can be a bit messy.
That’s where stuffing balls come in! These bite-sized, golden-brown delights take everything we love about traditional stuffing and transform it into a crispy, easy-to-serve treat.
What makes this recipe special? First, it’s incredibly versatile—serve it alongside Mashed Potato Puffs for the ultimate comfort-food duo, or balance out the richness with a light and refreshing Green Bean Casserole. Second, it’s convenient—perfect for meal prepping, holiday gatherings, or even just a fun twist on a weeknight dinner.
And let’s not forget texture: crunchy on the outside, soft and flavorful inside, with just the right balance of herbs and seasoning. Stuffing balls are also trending because they eliminate food waste—a great way to use up leftover bread while making something delicious.
In fact, studies show that nearly 30% of food waste comes from unused bread and grains, so recipes like this help make the most of what’s already in your kitchen. Give this recipe a try, and let me know how you make it your own!
Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will, Too!)
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, these stuffing balls fit right in.
- Crispy, Golden Perfection – Baking them creates a lightly crispy crust while keeping the inside moist and packed with flavor.
- Easy to Customize – Swap whole wheat bread for sourdough, add sausage or mushrooms, or spice it up with extra herbs.
- Less Mess, More Fun – No more stuffing spilling off your plate—just grab a bite and enjoy!
- Great for Meal Prep – These freeze well, so you can make them in advance and reheat them for an effortless side dish.
Stuffing Balls Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet or saucepan
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Spoon for mixing
Ingredients
- ¾ cup butter
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ cup diced celery
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 large eggs
- 10 cups cubed whole wheat bread
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Sauté onions and celery in melted butter over medium heat until soft, then add salt, poultry seasoning, and black pepper.
- Whisk eggs and chicken broth in a separate bowl until well combined.
- Combine cubed bread, sautéed vegetables, and parsley in a large bowl, then pour in the egg mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Shape into small balls (about 1.5 inches in diameter) and place them on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving warm.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 108kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 9g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Sodium | 289mg |
Smart Variations for Stuffing Balls!
- Caramelized Onion Boost – Instead of just sautéing the onions, cook them low and slow until deeply caramelized. This adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavor that takes the stuffing balls to another level.
- Cheesy Core Surprise – Press a small cube of sharp cheddar, gruyère, or gouda into the center of each stuffing ball before baking. The melted cheese inside adds a rich, gooey contrast to the crispy exterior.
- Crunch Factor Upgrade – For an extra crispy crust, roll the stuffing balls in panko breadcrumbs before baking. This gives them a delicate crunch without frying.
- Dried Fruit Twist – Fold in finely chopped dried cranberries, apricots, or figs for a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory herbs and butter.
- Spicy Herb Kick – Mix in finely chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. If you love bold flavors, a dash of smoked paprika adds a warm, smoky depth.
- Stuffing Meets Meatballs – Blend half the bread cubes with ground sausage or minced mushrooms for a more substantial, protein-packed version that works as a standalone dish.
- Savory Drizzle Finish – After baking, lightly drizzle with brown butter and fresh sage for an extra layer of nutty, aromatic flavor before serving.
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
