Stuffing Balls – A Family-Favorite Thanksgiving Side

First, let me say how thankful I am you’re here. Recipes like this one aren’t just food—they’re memories. These stuffing balls were passed down from my grandmother, and every year they take me right back to her kitchen, where the air was filled with the warm scent of sage, thyme, and toasted bread. They’re the kind of dish that turns an ordinary dinner into something truly special.

If you love classic stuffing but want something a little more fun, crispy, and perfectly portioned—this recipe is for you! I’ll walk you through every step so you can bring these golden, flavorful bites to your own table.

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Why You’ll Love These Stuffing Balls

• A nostalgic classic – all the cozy flavors of Thanksgiving stuffing.

• Perfectly portioned – no casserole scooping here, just grab a ball!

• Texture heaven – crispy edges outside, soft and tender inside.

• Versatile – delicious with turkey, roasted chicken, pork chops, or even as a snack.

• Make-ahead friendly – prepare in advance and bake when ready.

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What Do Stuffing Balls Taste Like?

Imagine the best parts of stuffing—the savory herbs, buttery onions, and comforting breadiness—but with the bonus of a lightly crisp exterior. They’re hearty, aromatic, and pair beautifully with gravy or cranberry sauce.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup celery, finely chopped

• ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped

• ½ tbsp ground sage

• 1 ½ tsp dried thyme leaves

• 1 tsp kosher salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 6 cups low-carb bread, toasted & chopped

• 6 cups cornbread stuffing mix

• 1 large egg, lightly beaten

• 1 can chicken broth

• Butter (for sautéing)

• 1 onion, finely chopped

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Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl

• Skillet (for sautéing veggies)

• Baking sheet

• Parchment paper or nonstick spray

• Wooden spoon or spatula

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Ingredient Swaps & Additions

• Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to make them vegetarian-friendly.

• Add cooked sausage for a heartier, meaty version.

• Mix in dried cranberries or apples for a sweet-savory twist.

• Replace low-carb bread with your favorite artisan bread for extra flavor.

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How to Make Stuffing Balls (Step by Step)

How to Make Stuffing Balls (Step by Step)

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and prepare a baking sheet with nonstick spray or parchment.

2. Sauté aromatics: Melt butter in a skillet, add onions, and cook 10 minutes. Add celery, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper; cook 5 more minutes. Remove from heat.

3. Mix bread & cornbread stuffing: In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with cornbread stuffing.

4. Add egg & broth: Stir in the beaten egg and ¾ cup chicken broth.

5. Combine everything: Mix in the sautéed vegetables and herbs.

6. Form into balls: Using your hands, shape into small balls and place on prepared baking sheet.

7. Bake: Bake for 20 minutes. Remove, gently pour the remaining chicken broth over them, then bake another 15 minutes.

8. Serve & enjoy: Crispy, golden, and irresistible!

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What to Serve With Stuffing Balls

• Roast turkey or chicken

• Pork chops or roast pork tenderloin

• Green beans, glazed carrots, or Brussels sprouts

• Mashed potatoes & gravy

• Cranberry sauce for a tart contrast

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Tips for Success

• Don’t over-soak the bread—just moist enough to hold together.

• Shape balls tightly so they don’t fall apart while baking.

• Make smaller ones for appetizers or larger ones for a hearty side.

• Want extra crisp? Place them on a wire rack over the baking sheet.

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Storage & Make-Ahead Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze unbaked stuffing balls for up to 1 month; bake straight from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes.

• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until hot and crisp.

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FAQs About Stuffing Balls

Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the mixture, shape into balls, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use only cornbread stuffing?
Absolutely, but mixing it with regular bread gives a better balance of texture.

Can I make them vegetarian?
Yes—swap chicken broth for vegetable broth.

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Nutritional Information (per ball, approx.)

• Calories: 120

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Protein: 4g

• Fat: 4g

• Fiber: 2g

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Bringing It All Together

These stuffing balls are more than just a recipe—they’re tradition, comfort, and celebration rolled into one. Whether you’re setting a Thanksgiving table or serving them with Sunday dinner, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles. Crispy on the outside, soft inside, and brimming with flavor… what’s not to love?