Print

Crispy Stuffing Balls

crispy stuffing balls - featured image
Print Recipe

These crispy stuffing balls are a handheld twist on classic Thanksgiving stuffing, featuring a golden, crunchy exterior and a savory, herb-packed interior. Perfect as an appetizer, potluck snack, or a fun way to reinvent holiday leftovers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups cubed bread (day-old or slightly stale; sourdough, white, or whole wheat)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 2 tbsp dried)
  • 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 3/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium if preferred)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying; or avocado/olive oil)
  • Optional: 1/2 cup cooked sausage, crumbled
  • Optional: 1/3 cup dried cranberries
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions

  1. Cut bread into 1/2-inch cubes. Lay out on a baking sheet and let dry for 1 hour, or toast in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes until slightly crisp.
  2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and celery; sauté for 5-6 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine toasted bread cubes, sautéed veggies, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in beaten eggs and broth. Fold in optional add-ins if using. Stir gently until evenly moistened; mixture should hold together when pressed.
  4. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture and roll into balls, slightly smaller than a golf ball. Place on a lined baking sheet (makes 16-20 balls).
  5. Chill tray in fridge for 15-20 minutes to firm up.
  6. Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs to coat. For extra crunch, double dip: roll in egg wash, then panko again.
  7. Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F. Fry stuffing balls in batches, turning gently, for 2-3 minutes per side until deep golden brown. Transfer to paper towels to drain.
  8. Alternative baking method: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place coated balls on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Spray lightly with oil and bake 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
  9. Let stuffing balls cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use day-old bread for best texture. Chilling the balls before cooking helps them hold together. For gluten-free, use GF bread and panko; for vegan, use plant-based butter and a flaxseed egg. Balls can be made ahead and reheated. Baking is a lighter alternative to frying. Add-ins like sausage, cranberries, or nuts can be customized.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffing balls, Thanksgiving appetizer, crispy stuffing, holiday bites, easy stuffing recipe, potluck snack, Friendsgiving, vegetarian stuffing balls, baked stuffing balls, fried stuffing balls

Find it online: https://bitematrix.com/crispy-stuffing-balls-recipe-easy-thanksgiving-bites-everyone-loves/