Go Back
–+ servings

Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls

No ratings yet
These crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls transform classic stuffing into perfect portion-controlled bites. They're make-ahead friendly and bring all the traditional stuffing flavors in a fun, new format that ensures everyone gets those coveted crispy edges.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 loaf day-old bread about 14 oz, yielding 8 cups of small cubes
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter 1 stick
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning or 1 teaspoon sage + 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth plus extra if needed
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated, optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Baking sheet
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 300°F. Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast for 10-12 minutes until dried but not browned.
  2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 6-8 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, combine toasted bread cubes with sautéed vegetables.
  4. Add poultry seasoning, salt, pepper, parsley, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Mix well.
  5. Stir in beaten eggs and slowly pour in chicken broth while mixing. The bread should be moist enough to hold together when squeezed but not soggy.
  6. Increase oven temperature to 375°F.
  7. Form mixture into golf ball-sized portions, pressing firmly to hold shape.
  8. Place stuffing balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Notes

Make these ahead of time to reduce holiday cooking stress. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread and add an extra egg for better binding. Try variations like adding dried cranberries, toasted pecans, cooked sausage, or chestnuts. These can be served as appetizers, sides, or even repurposed for leftover turkey sandwiches. Leftover stuffing balls can be reheated in the oven to restore their crispy exterior.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!