Save Savory, golden stuffing balls bursting with herbs and festive flavors—perfect for a speedy holiday side or appetizer.
I first served these stuffing balls at a holiday dinner and they were gobbled up within minutes by my family and friends.
Ingredients
- Bread & Fillings: 200 g day-old white or whole wheat bread, crusts removed and cubed, 1 small onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced
- Dairy: 75 g unsalted butter melted
- Liquids: 100 ml vegetable stock (hot)
- Herbs & Seasoning: 2 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped, 1 tbsp fresh sage finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried), 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional Add-ins: 50 g dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots, 50 g chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Place the bread cubes in a large bowl. Pour the hot vegetable stock evenly over the bread and let soak for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Step 3:
- Add the onion, garlic, melted butter, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. If using, mix in dried fruit and nuts.
- Step 4:
- Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture holds together when squeezed.
- Step 5:
- Using damp hands, shape the mixture into 12 even balls and place them on the prepared tray.
- Step 6:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden and crisp on the outside.
- Step 7:
- Serve warm as a festive side or appetizer.
Save My family loves making these together, especially shaping the balls which is a fun holiday tradition for us.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these stuffing balls with gravy or cranberry sauce for a traditional holiday experience.
Storage Tips
They can be made ahead and reheated; store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains gluten (from bread) and dairy (butter), and nuts if optional add-ins are used. Be careful if serving to persons with egg allergies if adding egg.
Save Enjoy these flavorful stuffing balls as a delightful addition to your holiday table that everyone will love.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make these stuffing balls vegan?
Yes, replace the melted butter with olive oil or a vegan margarine to keep them plant-based without compromising flavor.
- → How do I prevent the balls from falling apart?
Ensure the bread mixture is fully soaked and combined, then gently squeeze before shaping so the mixture holds together well during baking.
- → What is the best bread to use for stuffing balls?
Day-old white or whole wheat bread is ideal, as it absorbs the liquid well without becoming too mushy.
- → Can I prepare the balls ahead of time?
Yes, shape the balls and refrigerate them. Bake just before serving to keep them crisp and warm.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor best?
Fresh parsley, sage, and thyme provide classic savory notes that complement the stuffing’s festive flavors.