Stuffing Balls – Golden, Savory Bites of Holiday Comfort

These irresistible stuffing balls are a festive twist on classic holiday dressing—crispy on the outside, tender and herb-infused on the inside. Made with a blend of low-carb bread and cornbread stuffing, then packed with sautéed onions, celery, aromatic herbs, and moistened with egg and chicken broth, they bake up into perfect little morsels ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another side dish—it’s stuffing reimagined. With a golden crust and fluffy center, these bite-sized balls bring all the flavor of your favorite Thanksgiving stuffing to the table in an easy-to-serve form. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving that herby, buttery goodness, they’re simple to make, delicious warm from the oven, and even better the next day.

Perfect for:

• Holiday feasts (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter)
• Meal prep and freezer-friendly sides
• Party appetizers or game-day snacks
• Low-carb diets (with grain-free options)

Ingredients

For the Flavor Base

• 2 tbsp (¼ stick / 28g) unsalted butter
• 1 large onion, chopped (~1½ cups)
• 1 cup (100g) celery, finely chopped
• ½ cup (20g) fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ tbsp (2g) ground sage
• 1½ tsp dried thyme leaves
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper, freshly ground

For the Stuffing Mixture

• 6 cups (about 150g) low-carb bread, toasted and cubed (or keto-friendly loaf)
• 6 cups (120g) cornbread stuffing mix, store-bought or homemade
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 (14.5 oz / 415ml) can chicken broth, divided

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven & Prep Pan

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a large baking sheet with nonstick spray or line with parchment paper.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat:

• Melt butter.
• Add chopped onion and sauté 10 minutes, until soft and translucent.
• Stir in celery, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Cook 5 more minutes, stirring often, until celery is tender and fragrant.
• Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a very large bowl:

• Mix together toasted low-carb bread cubes and cornbread stuffing.
• Break up any large pieces so everything blends evenly.

4. Add Moisture & Binders

To the dry mixture:

• Pour in ¾ cup of chicken broth and the beaten egg.
• Stir well to distribute moisture throughout.
• Add the sauteed vegetable mixture and stir again until fully incorporated.

5. Form the Balls

Using damp hands (prevents sticking):

• Scoop about ¼ cup of mixture per ball.
• Roll gently into compact spheres (~2-inch diameter).
• Place on prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.

6. First Bake – Set the Shape

• Bake 20 minutes at 375°F.
• The balls will begin to firm up and turn light golden.

7. Finish with Broth & Crisp Up

• Carefully pour the remaining chicken broth evenly over the top.
• Return to oven and bake 15 more minutes, until:
  • Tops are deep golden brown
  • Centers are hot and tender
  • Edges are slightly crisp

8. Serve Warm & Delicious

• Let rest 3–5 minutes before serving—this helps hold shape.
• Serve as a star side dish or arrange on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing.

Pair with:

• Roast turkey or ham
• Gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping
• Green beans or mashed potatoes

You Must Know

• Toast the bread first —prevents sogginess and adds texture.
• Use room-temp egg —blends more smoothly.
• Divide broth as directed —keeps structure during baking.
• Tastes better the next day! Reheats beautifully in oven or air fryer.
• Freezer-friendly —cool completely and freeze before or after baking.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes (best texture). Microwave works but may soften crust.
• Freeze unbaked or baked portions: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Serving Suggestions

• Serve family-style in a casserole dish.
• Great for potlucks—bring the whole pan!
• Double the batch and freeze half for future comfort.
• Pack in lunchboxes (reheat safely).

Cultural Context

Inspired by American Thanksgiving traditions and Southern cornbread dressing, this recipe honors the joy of gathering around the table with something warm, flavorful, and made with care. Found at holiday feasts, church dinners, and creative kitchens alike, it proves that great food doesn’t have to be complicated—just heartfelt, hearty, and shared.

Pro Tips

• Double the recipe? Yes—perfect for feeding a crowd. Use two pans or work in batches.
• Want more veg? Add mushrooms, carrots, or apples to the sauté.
• Make ahead: Assemble mixture 1–2 days ahead. Refrigerate and bake when ready.
• Label your dish: People will ask for the recipe.
• Say “ready?” before serving —it’s part of the ritual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use fresh cornbread instead of stuffing mix?
A: Absolutely! Crumble 3–4 cups homemade cornbread for rich, authentic flavor.

Q: Why did my balls fall apart?
A: Likely too dry or under-bound. Ensure enough egg and broth; chill mixture briefly if loose.

Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Only if using GF bread and stuffing mix.

Q: Can I make mini versions?
A: Yes! Make smaller balls and reduce bake time to 25–30 mins total.

Q: Can I air fry them?
A: Yes! Spray lightly and air fry at 375°F for 12–15 mins, shaking halfway.

Allergy Information

Contains: dairy (butter), eggs, wheat (in most breads and stuffing).
Gluten-free option: Use certified GF substitutes.
Nut-free: This recipe is naturally nut-free.
Always check labels—especially on processed stuffing mixes and broths.

Nutrition Facts (Per Ball – Approximate)

Based on 18 servings

• Calories: 160
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Sodium: 480mg

These balls don’t shout. They emerge golden from the oven, crisp and inviting, saying everything a great side should: “Grab me. Share me… maybe.” That’s how the best ones begin—not with silence, but with sage, soul, and someone who says, “Let’s make it unforgettable.”