Pin this Savory, golden stuffing balls bursting with herbs and festive flavors—perfect for a speedy holiday side or appetizer.
This recipe has become a holiday classic at our family gatherings because it's easy to prepare yet impressively flavorful.
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.
Pin this We enjoy these stuffing balls every holiday surrounded by loved ones, making memories around the table.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, Baking tray, Parchment paper, Sharp knife, Chopping board
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (bread) and dairy (butter). Contains nuts if optional add-ins are used. For egg allergies, omit if adding egg. Double-check all packaged ingredients for traces of allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 145, Total Fat 7 g, Carbohydrates 18 g, Protein 3 g (per serving, 2 balls)
Pin this These stuffing balls offer a quick festive touch that everyone will love and savor.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of bread works best for these stuffing balls?
Day-old white or whole wheat bread with crusts removed and cubed is ideal to achieve the right texture and absorb the stock well.
- → Can I make these balls vegan?
Yes, replace melted butter with olive oil or vegan margarine for a vegan-friendly version without compromising flavor.
- → How do dried fruits and nuts affect the flavor?
Dried cranberries, apricots, walnuts, or pecans add a subtle sweetness and crunch that balance the savory herbs.
- → What is the best way to shape the stuffing mixture?
Using damp hands helps the mixture hold together well and form evenly sized balls before baking.
- → Can these be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the balls in advance and reheat them before serving to maintain their crisp exterior.