Save Savory, golden stuffing balls bursting with herbs and festive flavors—perfect for a speedy holiday side or appetizer.
I make these stuffing balls every Christmas because they bring back warm family memories and are always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- Bread & Fillings: 200 g day-old white or whole wheat bread, crusts removed and cubed 1 small onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Dairy: 75 g unsalted butter, melted
- Liquids: 100 ml vegetable stock (hot)
- Herbs & Seasoning: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped 1 tbsp fresh sage, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried) 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves ½ tsp salt ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional Add-ins: 50 g dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots 50 g chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Place the bread cubes in a large bowl. Pour the hot vegetable stock evenly over the bread and let soak for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Step 3:
- Add the onion, garlic, melted butter, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. If using, mix in dried fruit and nuts.
- Step 4:
- Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture holds together when squeezed.
- Step 5:
- Using damp hands, shape the mixture into 12 even balls and place them on the prepared tray.
- Step 6:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden and crisp on the outside.
- Step 7:
- Serve warm as a festive side or appetizer.
Save My family gathers around eagerly to try these every year and they never last long on the table.
Notes
For a vegan version, substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan margarine. Add 1 beaten egg for extra binding if desired (not vegan). Delicious with gravy or cranberry sauce. Can be made ahead and reheated.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Baking tray Parchment paper Sharp knife Chopping board
Nutritional Information
Calories 145 Total Fat 7 g Carbohydrates 18 g Protein 3 g (per serving, 2 balls)
Save These stuffing balls add festive flair in just minutes, making holiday cooking a breeze.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I make these stuffing balls vegan?
Yes, you can replace the melted butter with olive oil or vegan margarine to make the dish vegan-friendly.
- → What type of bread works best for this dish?
Day-old white or whole wheat bread with crusts removed is ideal as it soaks up the vegetable stock nicely without becoming too soggy.
- → Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the stuffing balls?
Absolutely. Dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots, along with walnuts or pecans, add festive sweetness and a crunchy texture.
- → How do I ensure the balls hold together when baking?
Mix the ingredients thoroughly and squeeze the mixture before shaping. Adding a beaten egg can help with binding if desired.
- → What is the best way to reheat these balls?
Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 10 minutes to regain crispness without drying out.