Introduction
Crispy Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls take everything you love about classic holiday stuffing and transform it into perfectly golden, bite-sized delights. Crunchy on the outside and soft, savory, and herb-packed on the inside, these stuffing balls are ideal as an appetizer, side dish, or even a fun leftover makeover after Thanksgiving dinner.
Origin
Stuffing has deep roots in European cooking, where bread was seasoned with herbs and used to fill poultry. Over time, American holiday traditions adapted stuffing into casseroles and skillet dishes. Stuffing balls are a modern twist—designed for easy serving, crisp texture, and versatility while preserving the beloved flavors of traditional stuffing.
Cultural Significance
Stuffing is one of the most iconic Thanksgiving dishes, symbolizing comfort, family gatherings, and holiday abundance. Turning stuffing into crispy balls adds a playful, shareable element to the table, making it perfect for potlucks, family-style meals, and holiday appetizers.
Ingredients Quantity
- 6 cups prepared stuffing (homemade or boxed, cooled)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup chicken or turkey broth
- ½ cup celery, finely diced
- ½ cup onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (if mixture is too soft)
Optional Additions
- Cooked sausage or bacon crumbles for extra flavor
- Chopped fresh herbs like sage, thyme, or parsley
- Dried cranberries for a sweet-savory contrast
- Shredded cheese for a gooey center
- Garlic powder or onion powder for added depth
Tips for Success
- Let stuffing cool before forming balls so they hold their shape
- If the mixture feels too wet, add breadcrumbs gradually
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized balls
- Lightly grease your hands to prevent sticking
- Bake on a rack over a sheet pan for extra crispiness
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté celery and onion until soft. Let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine stuffing, sautéed vegetables, eggs, broth, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until just combined. Add Parmesan or breadcrumbs if needed for structure.
- Roll mixture into golf-ball-sized balls and place on prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm with gravy or cranberry sauce if desired.
Description
These stuffing balls are crispy and golden on the outside with a tender, flavorful interior bursting with classic Thanksgiving herbs. Each bite delivers the familiar taste of holiday stuffing in a fun, handheld form.
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving, 3 balls)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Sodium: 480mg
Conclusion
Crispy Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls are a creative and delicious way to elevate a holiday classic. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they bring both nostalgia and crunch to the table.
Recommendation
Serve these as an appetizer before the main meal, alongside turkey and gravy, or as a clever way to use leftover stuffing the next day.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
You can enjoy these festive bites while keeping balance in mind—use whole-grain bread, add vegetables, or bake instead of frying. It’s all about savoring holiday flavors while honoring mindful, joyful eating.