When it comes to holiday feasts, stuffing is a must-have on the table. But why stick to the traditional dish when you can elevate it into delicious, bite-sized stuffing balls? These Thanksgiving stuffing balls are crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful inside, and perfect for serving as appetizers, sides, or snacks. Whether you need a creative dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering, these savory stuffing balls are sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll guide you through an easy and make-ahead stuffing recipe, using simple ingredients, including stuffing from a bag, to create the best stuffing ball appetizers. Get ready to transform your traditional stuffing into a fun and delicious treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Perfect for Holiday Gatherings – Great for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or potlucks.
✔ Easy to Make Ahead – Save time by preparing them in advance.
✔ Crispy, Flavorful, and Fun – A delicious alternative to traditional stuffing.
✔ Versatile – Serve as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack.
✔ Great Use of Leftovers – A fantastic way to repurpose leftover stuffing.
Ingredients for Perfect Stuffing Balls
This Thanksgiving stuffing balls recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create a flavorful, bite-sized dish.
Basic Ingredients
- 6 cups stuffing mix (from a bag) – Any seasoned stuffing mix works.
- 1 cup chicken broth – Adds moisture and flavor.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped – Enhances the savory taste.
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced – Provides crunch and texture.
- 1 teaspoon dried sage – Classic stuffing seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – For extra depth of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – To balance the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a subtle garlicky kick.
- ½ cup butter (melted) – Helps bind and adds richness.
- 2 large eggs – Acts as a binder for the stuffing balls.
Optional Additions
- ½ cup cooked sausage or bacon – For extra flavor.
- ½ cup shredded cheese – Cheddar or Parmesan work well.
- ¼ cup dried cranberries – For a touch of sweetness.
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts – Adds crunch and nuttiness.
How to Make Stuffing Balls
Follow these easy steps to create the best dressing balls recipes Thanksgiving guests will love.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Sauté the onion and celery in melted butter over medium heat until soft (about 3-4 minutes). Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix the Stuffing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine stuffing mix, dried sage, thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Add the sautéed onions and celery, then pour in chicken broth and mix until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Form the Stuffing Balls
- In a small bowl, beat the eggs, then mix them into the stuffing mixture.
- If using sausage, cheese, cranberries, or nuts, fold them into the mixture.
- Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form 1.5-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the stuffing balls are crispy on the outside and firm to the touch.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve warm with gravy, cranberry sauce, or a creamy dipping sauce.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! These stuffing bites Thanksgiving recipe is perfect for meal prep.
- Refrigerate Unbaked Balls – Form the balls and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.
- Freeze for Later – Arrange unbaked stuffing balls on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Dips & Sauces
Pair these stuffing ball appetizers with delicious sauces for extra flavor:
✔ Turkey Gravy – Classic and rich.
✔ Cranberry Sauce – A tangy-sweet contrast.
✔ Garlic Herb Aioli – Creamy and savory.
✔ Honey Mustard – A touch of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Side Dish – Serve alongside roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and green beans.
- As an Appetizer – Skewer with toothpicks for a bite-sized treat.
- In a Wrap or Sandwich – Stuff inside a leftover turkey sandwich.
Variations to Try
This Xmas stuffing recipes idea is flexible, so you can get creative!
1. Sausage Stuffing Balls
- Add cooked ground sausage for a heartier version.
2. Vegetarian Stuffing Balls
- Use vegetable broth and skip the sausage.
3. Cheesy Stuffing Bites
- Mix in shredded cheese for an extra indulgent treat.
4. Cranberry-Pecan Stuffing Balls
- Fold in dried cranberries and chopped pecans for a festive twist.
5. Air Fryer Stuffing Balls
- Instead of baking, cook in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes until crispy.
Why Stuffing Balls Are a Holiday Favorite
✅ Great for Kids – Fun, bite-sized, and easy to eat.
✅ Mess-Free – No need for serving spoons—just grab and enjoy.
✅ No Waste – Uses up every bit of stuffing, reducing leftovers.
✅ Crowd-Pleaser – Everyone loves a crispy, flavorful bite!
Common Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make Stuffing Balls with Leftover Stuffing?
Yes! If you have leftover Thanksgiving stuffing, just mix in an egg, form balls, and bake.
2. Can I Use Store-Bought Stuffing?
Absolutely! This stuffing recipes from a bag method is perfect for saving time.
3. Do Stuffing Balls Need to Be Refrigerated?
Yes, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
4. How Do I Make Crispy Stuffing Balls?
- Use a hot oven (375°F – 400°F).
- Don’t over-moisten the stuffing.
- Lightly coat with melted butter before baking.
5. Can I Use Cornbread Stuffing?
Yes! Cornbread stuffing works great, just reduce the liquid slightly.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Holiday Recipe
These perfect stuffing balls are a fantastic twist on classic stuffing, making them a must-have for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and beyond. Whether you serve them as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, they’ll bring comfort and warmth to any holiday meal.
Give this Thanksgiving dressing balls recipe a try and impress your guests with these delicious stuffing bites. Don’t forget to pair them with a tasty dipping sauce for the ultimate holiday treat!
Did You Try This Recipe?
Leave a comment below and share your favorite stuffing variations! 🎉
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