Stuffing balls are a versatile and flavorful addition to any meal. These savory bites combine bread, herbs, and spices, creating a delightful texture and taste. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a side dish, they can be customized to include your favorite ingredients. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of making these delicious stuffing balls that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
– 4 cups bread cubes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup celery, chopped
– 1/4 cup bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 12 stuffing balls. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 stuffing ball) contains approximately 80 calories, 2g protein, 15g carbohydrates, 1g fat, and 2g fiber. This is based on a standard recipe serving size of one ball.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes and vegetable broth. Let them soak for about 10 minutes.
3. In a skillet, sauté the onion, celery, and bell pepper until softened.
4. Add the sautéed vegetables to the bread mixture.
5. Stir in cranberries, parsley, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.
6. Mix everything until well combined.
7. Form the mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball.
8. Place the balls on a greased baking sheet.
9. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version, or use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for a richer flavor. Feel free to add nuts or different dried fruits for added texture.
Serving and Pairings
Stuffing balls pair wonderfully with roasted meats, gravies, or as a flavorful addition to salads. They can also be served alongside mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Stuffing balls can also be frozen for up to two months; just thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip soaking the bread; it’s crucial for the right texture.
– Avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense balls.
– Ensure your oven is preheated for even cooking.
– Use fresh herbs for better flavor.
– Monitor baking time to prevent burning.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different spices for unique flavors.
– Use leftover bread to reduce waste.
– For extra crispiness, broil the balls for a few minutes after baking.
– Adjust moisture based on your bread type to get the right consistency.
FAQs
Can I make stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare stuffing balls a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them when ready to serve.
Can I add meat to stuffing balls?
Absolutely! Cooked sausage or bacon can be added for a heartier dish.
How do I know when stuffing balls are done?
They should be golden brown on the outside and firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Can I use stale bread for stuffing balls?
Yes, stale bread is perfect for stuffing balls as it absorbs the liquid well.
Are stuffing balls suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as long as vegetable broth is used, stuffing balls can be a great vegetarian option.
Conclusion
Stuffing balls are not only delicious but also versatile, making them a fantastic addition to any meal. With the ability to customize ingredients to your taste, they offer endless possibilities. Try this recipe for a crowd-pleasing dish that will be the highlight of your dining experience!
Stuffing Balls
Ingredients
- 4 cups bread cubes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup onion finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery chopped
- 1/4 cup bell pepper diced
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes and vegetable broth. Let them soak for about 10 minutes.
- In a skillet, sauté the onion, celery, and bell pepper until softened.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the bread mixture.
- Stir in cranberries, parsley, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything until well combined.
- Form the mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball.
- Place the balls on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
