Name: Stuffing Balls Recipe for Thanksgiving Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 bag (12–14 oz) dry seasoned bread cubes; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 ribs celery, finely chopped; ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 1 ½ to 2 cups chicken broth, as needed; 1 tsp poultry seasoning (or a mix of sage, thyme, rosemary); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste); ½ tsp black pepper; 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for freshness)

If you’re like me and want to add a fun twist to your holiday spread, then you’re going to adore this Stuffing Balls Recipe for Thanksgiving Recipe. These bite-sized gems are packed with all that cozy, herb-filled goodness you expect from classic stuffing but shaped into perfectly crisp, golden balls that are as entertaining to eat as they are delicious. I absolutely love how this recipe turns the humble stuffing into handheld bites everyone reaches for—making your Thanksgiving table that much more memorable. Stick with me, and I’ll share everything you need to know to nail these every time!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fun Presentation: Transforming traditional stuffing into bite-sized balls makes them perfect for gatherings and easy for everyone to enjoy.
Simple Ingredients: You’re working with pantry staples and fresh veggies that come together seamlessly for unforgettable flavor.
Perfect Texture: Crispy on the outside yet tender and flavorful on the inside – the texture contrast is just heavenly.
Make-Ahead Friendly: These can be prepped in advance, stored, and even frozen without losing any magic.

The image shows several round meatballs with a golden-brown crust and green herb bits scattered through them, resting in a light brown gravy. A silver fork holds one meatball with a bite taken out, showing a soft and moist inside with visible herbs. The meatballs are arranged closely on a white plate with some chopped green herbs sprinkled on top and the gravy pooling around them. The background is a white marbled texture photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Stuffing Balls Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving stuffing appetizer, holiday stuffing bites, herb stuffing balls, easy stuffing recipes

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Stuffing Balls Recipe for Thanksgiving Recipe plays a role in creating that perfect balance of moisture, flavor, and texture. When I first tried this, making sure the bread cubes weren’t too dry or too soggy was key to success.

Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl of dry seasoned bread cubes, a medium whole uncracked brown onion, two bright green celery ribs, a small white ceramic bowl with a portion of unsalted butter, two whole uncracked brown eggs with clean shells, a small white ceramic bowl of golden chicken broth, a little heap of dried poultry seasoning herbs, a small white ceramic bowl of fine garlic powder, a small white ceramic bowl of salt crystals, a small white ceramic bowl of black pepper, and a few sprigs of fresh green parsley placed neatly on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Stuffing Balls Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving stuffing appetizer, holiday stuffing bites, herb stuffing balls, easy stuffing recipes

Dry seasoned bread cubes: These are the heart of the recipe, and using seasoned cubes saves you extra steps but feel free to toast your own for a fresher base.
Onion: Freshly chopped adds a sweet, savory depth; sauté it gently to bring out the natural sugars.
Celery: Adds a lovely crunch and subtle earthiness that balances richness.
Unsalted butter: I always use unsalted so I can control the salt level precisely in the recipe.
Eggs: These bind everything perfectly without being heavy – stick to large eggs for consistent texture.
Chicken broth: Start low and add gradually; it’s essential for moistening the mix just right without making it soggy.
Poultry seasoning (or herbs): This classic herb blend or your own mix of sage, thyme, and rosemary gives that signature Thanksgiving flavor.
Garlic powder: Provides a subtle savory punch that melds beautifully with the herbs.
Salt and black pepper: Season to taste, keeping in mind the bread cubes might already contain some salt.
Fresh parsley: Optional, but I love the pop of color and freshness it brings whenever I sprinkle it on top.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the things I love about this Stuffing Balls Recipe for Thanksgiving Recipe is how easy it is to customize. Over the years, I’ve played with different add-ins and seasoning tweaks to fit dietary needs or just switch things up.

Vegetarian Version: I swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and drop any meat-based seasonings for a plant-friendly version my family still loves.
Extra Crunch: Adding chopped toasted pecans or walnuts gives a fun texture surprise.
Cheesy Twist: Mixing in shredded sharp cheddar or parmesan before baking adds a rich layer of flavor.
Seasonal Flavors: Try adding a handful of dried cranberries or apple chunks for a sweet touch that’s all about festive vibes.

How to Make Stuffing Balls Recipe for Thanksgiving Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

This first step is where you start building flavor. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add finely chopped onion and celery. Gently cook them for 5 to 7 minutes until they become soft and translucent. You’ll want to watch them carefully so they don’t brown too much—soft and fragrant is the goal here.

Step 2: Combine the Stuffing Mix

In a big bowl, toss together the dry seasoned bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables and all the seasonings—poultry seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The butter from the skillet should coat the bread cubes nicely, which already makes it smell amazing.

Step 3: Bind and Moisten

Pour in the beaten eggs and stir gently. Now, here’s the trick I learned: add the chicken broth slowly, just a little at a time, until the mix feels moist enough to hold together when you squeeze it gently in your hand. You don’t want it too soggy because your balls will fall apart; it should feel springy and stick together nicely.

Step 4: Form and Bake

Grab a handful of the mixture and roll it into balls about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a greased or lined baking sheet, spaced a bit apart so they can get that beautiful crisp outside. Bake in your preheated 375°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown. You’ll know they’re done when they feel firm and have a slight crunch on the outside.

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Pro Tips for Making Stuffing Balls Recipe for Thanksgiving Recipe

Moisture Balance Matters: I always add broth gradually to avoid soggy stuffing balls—too wet and they won’t hold their shape.
Even-Sized Balls: Using a small ice cream scoop helps create uniform balls that bake evenly every time.
Butter Makes the Flavor: Don’t skimp on the butter for sautéing veggies—it’s what makes these extra rich and comforting.
Crisp ‘Em Up: If you want extra crunch, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes—but watch carefully so they don’t burn.

How to Serve Stuffing Balls Recipe for Thanksgiving Recipe

Stuffing Balls Recipe for Thanksgiving Recipe - Serving

Garnishes

I like to finish these stuffing balls with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley—not just for color but because it adds a hint of brightness that cuts through the richness. Sometimes a light drizzle of gravy on the side turns them into irresistible little bites.

Side Dishes

Stuffing balls pair beautifully with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole—classic Thanksgiving companions. I also love serving them alongside cranberry sauce for that perfect mix of savory and sweet.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or appetizer-style presentation, try serving these on a platter with toothpicks and little ramekins of gravy or cranberry chutney for dipping. They’re always a hit when finger food is on the menu!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover stuffing balls keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I usually reheat them in the oven to bring back some crispness instead of using the microwave, which can make them soggy.

Freezing

I’ve had great success freezing these after baking. Just let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag. When you want them, bake from frozen at 350°F until warmed through and crisp outside.

Reheating

To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes to revive their crispy shell. If you’re short on time, a quick zap in the microwave works, but you’ll lose some of that delightful crunch.

FAQs

Can I make the stuffing balls gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap the seasoned bread cubes for your favorite gluten-free bread, preferably toasted lightly to keep some texture. The rest of the recipe stays the same.
How do I prevent stuffing balls from falling apart?

The key is getting the moisture balance right: too wet and they’ll be mushy, too dry and they won’t bind. Adding eggs as a binder and incorporating broth slowly helps achieve that perfect consistency for shaping.
Can I prepare stuffing balls ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the mixture and shape the balls a day ahead, then cover and refrigerate. When ready, bake them fresh so they come out crisp and warm.
What can I serve with stuffing balls besides turkey?

Stuffing balls are versatile — they pair well with roast chicken, pork, or even as a hearty appetizer alongside salads or steamed veggies for a lighter meal.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffing Balls Recipe for Thanksgiving Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it turns a traditional favorite into something playful and irresistible. Every year, my family goes crazy for these, and I find myself looking forward to making them almost as much as the turkey itself! If you try them, you’ll see just how easy it is to impress your guests with minimal effort but maximum flavor and fun. So go ahead—roll up your sleeves, and give these a whirl. I promise you’ll be reaching for the leftovers!