Why You’ll Love Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls Recipe
Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls are more than just a side dish—they’re a heartwarming taste of family traditions. You’ll love this recipe because:
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It’s easy to prepare and uses simple pantry staples.
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The stuffing balls are portioned perfectly for individual servings.
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They have a delightful crispy exterior with a soft, flavorful center.
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It’s a great make-ahead option for busy holiday meals.
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The classic herb seasoning evokes the comforting taste of home-cooked holiday dinners.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 loaf white bread, crusts removed and cubed
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1 cup celery, chopped
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1 cup onion, chopped
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1/2 cup butter
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2 eggs, beaten
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon dried sage
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
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1/2 cup chicken broth
directions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
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In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the celery and onion, cooking until softened.
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In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, sautéed celery and onion, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, sage, thyme, and chicken broth. Mix until well combined.
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Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized balls and place them on a baking sheet.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Servings and timing
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Variations
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Meaty Option: Add cooked, crumbled sausage to the mixture for a heartier bite.
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Vegan Twist: Use plant-based butter, a flax egg substitute, and vegetable broth to make these vegan-friendly.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
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Cheesy Delight: Mix in a handful of grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese.
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Herb Mix: Experiment with rosemary, marjoram, or parsley for different herbal profiles.
storage/reheating
To store, place leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. They can also be microwaved, though the exterior may lose some crispness. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 1 month and reheat from frozen by adding 5-10 extra minutes in the oven.
FAQs
What type of bread is best for stuffing balls?
White bread is used in this recipe for its neutral flavor and soft texture, but you can substitute with whole wheat, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread if desired.
Can I make stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can form the stuffing balls a day ahead and refrigerate them. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze stuffing balls?
Absolutely. Bake them first, let them cool, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a container. Reheat from frozen in the oven.
How do I prevent stuffing balls from falling apart?
Make sure the mixture is moist enough to hold together but not too wet. Adding a bit more broth or another egg can help if it’s too crumbly.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, cooked sausage, ground turkey, or even bacon can be mixed into the stuffing for added flavor and texture.
Are these stuffing balls kid-friendly?
Definitely! Their shape and size make them fun for kids to eat, and the flavors are mild enough to appeal to most palates.
What can I serve with stuffing balls?
They pair well with turkey, roast chicken, gravy, cranberry sauce, or any classic holiday main dish.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the white bread with your favorite gluten-free bread.
Do I need to toast the bread first?
Toasting helps the bread hold its shape and absorb flavors without becoming mushy. It’s a key step for texture.
What herbs can I use instead of sage and thyme?
Rosemary, marjoram, or poultry seasoning are great alternatives that still keep the holiday flavor profile.
Conclusion
Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls are the kind of recipe that gets passed down through generations—simple, delicious, and full of holiday spirit. Whether you’re serving a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner, these savory morsels are sure to become a beloved tradition on your holiday table.
Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls
Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls are a nostalgic, savory favorite perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday gathering. These golden, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside stuffing balls are made with simple, traditional ingredients like white bread, celery, onion, and herbs. Ideal for prepping ahead, they’re a crowd-pleasing side that brings warmth and homemade flavor to your festive table. Keyword: stuffing balls
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 loaf white bread, crusts removed and cubed
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add celery and onion, cooking until softened.
- In a large bowl, combine toasted bread, sautéed vegetables, eggs, salt, pepper, sage, thyme, and chicken broth. Mix thoroughly.
- Shape mixture into golf ball-sized balls and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Notes
- These stuffing balls can be made a day ahead and reheated in the oven before serving.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Add chopped cooked sausage for extra flavor.
