Stuffing Balls with Gravy

Stuffing Balls with Gravy

Introduction:

Stuffing is an iconic dish during Thanksgiving and other festive occasions, known for its warm, savory flavors that accompany the main course.

While traditionally baked in a large dish or stuffed inside a turkey, stuffing balls offer a fun and practical twist on this classic dish.

Shaped into individual portions, these crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside stuffing balls are not only delicious but also easy to serve and perfect for any crowd.

Drizzled with rich gravy, they become an irresistible addition to your holiday spread.

Stuffing balls are made from a base of seasoned bread cubes or pre-packaged stuffing mix combined with vegetables, herbs, and a flavorful broth.

The mixture is rolled into small balls, baked to golden perfection, and then served with a smooth, savory gravy.

This recipe is simple to prepare and can be customized with ingredients such as sausage, dried cranberries, or nuts, depending on your taste.

Whether you’re looking for a creative side dish or a comforting snack, stuffing balls will surely impress your guests.

Ingredients:

For the Stuffing Balls:

6 cups of stuffing mix (store-bought or homemade, with herbs)

1 cup chicken broth (or turkey broth)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 celery stalks, finely chopped

2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sautéing the vegetables)

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon dried sage (optional)

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing or frying the stuffing balls)

Optional Add-Ins:

1/2 pound of sausage (cooked and crumbled)

1/4 cup dried cranberries

1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

1/2 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or parmesan)

For the Gravy:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups chicken broth (or turkey broth)

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing Mix

If you’re using a pre-packaged stuffing mix, follow the package instructions to prepare it using chicken broth.

For a homemade version, cut bread into cubes and toast them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden and crisp. Place the toasted bread cubes in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and sauté until the vegetables are softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl with the stuffing mix or toasted bread cubes, add the sautéed vegetables, dried sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and 1 cup of chicken broth. Pour the egg and broth mixture over the stuffing and stir gently until everything is moistened but not soggy. If the mixture seems dry, add a little more broth, 1 tablespoon at a time.

Step 4: Form the Stuffing Balls

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.

Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the stuffing mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball (approximately 1 1/2 to 2 inches in diameter). Place the stuffing balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Brush the tops of the stuffing balls with olive oil for extra crispiness or spray with cooking spray.

Step 5: Bake the Stuffing Balls

Bake the stuffing balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Alternatively, for a more flavorful option, you can pan-fry the stuffing balls. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the stuffing balls in batches, frying them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 6: Prepare the Gravy

While the stuffing balls are baking, you can prepare the gravy. In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden brown.

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to eliminate any lumps. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Continue to whisk and cook until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 7: Serve

Once the stuffing balls are baked or fried, transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle the gravy generously over the top or serve the gravy on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley if desired.

Optional Variations:

• Sausage Stuffing Balls: For a heartier version, add 1/2 pound of cooked and crumbled sausage to the stuffing mixture before forming the balls. This will add rich flavor and protein.
• Cheese-Stuffed Balls: If you love cheesy flavors, add 1/2 cup of shredded cheese to the stuffing mix, or stuff a small cube of cheese into the center of each ball before baking.
• Sweet and Savory: For a touch of sweetness, fold in dried cranberries and chopped pecans or walnuts for a festive variation.

Conclusion:

Stuffing balls with gravy are an excellent way to elevate a classic side dish into something even more exciting. Their bite-sized form makes them perfect for holiday dinners or even as appetizers for any gathering. The crispy exterior combined with the soft, flavorful interior is sure to please any crowd. And with the added bonus of a rich, savory gravy to drizzle over the top, these stuffing balls will quickly become a family favorite.

This recipe is highly versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. You can keep them simple and traditional or get creative by adding in your favorite ingredients, such as sausage, cheese, or dried fruits and nuts. Whichever way you decide to prepare them, these stuffing balls will be a hit on your holiday table or at any special event.

Enjoy your delicious, crispy, and flavorful stuffing balls drizzled with gravy, and make them a part of your holiday tradition!