MeeMaw’s Baked Stuffing Balls

There’s something magical about a family recipe that stands the test of time, and MeeMaw’s Baked Stuffing Balls are exactly that. Perfectly crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, these stuffing balls are a delightful twist on the traditional dish. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, these little bites of joy are sure to be a hit at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These stuffing balls are not only fun to eat, but they’re also packed with savory flavor from fresh herbs and buttery goodness. They come together in just 30 minutes, making them a hassle-free side dish for any meal. No more waiting for bread to dry out overnight; this recipe keeps things simple and delicious.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Nonstick spray

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 10 cups white or whole wheat bread, cubed
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Grease the foil with nonstick spray and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the salt, pepper, sage, and thyme to the skillet, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and chicken broth. Stir in the cubed bread and chopped parsley.
5. Pour the onion mixture into the bread mixture and mix until well combined.
6. Shape the mixture into 2-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and crisp. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

Make sure to finely dice the onion and celery for even cooking. Fresh herbs can be used in place of dried for an extra burst of flavor. Don’t pack the balls too tightly; a gentle touch ensures they stay tender.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to add in some cooked sausage or mushrooms for a heartier version. For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. You can also try using cornbread for a different texture and taste.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving is packed with savory flavors and essential nutrients, providing a good source of protein and fiber from the eggs and whole wheat bread.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the balls a day ahead. Refrigerate them and bake just before serving.
• Can I freeze the stuffing balls? Absolutely! Once baked, let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to a month. Reheat in the oven before serving.
• What if I don’t have fresh parsley? Dried parsley can be used as a substitute, but fresh parsley adds a brighter flavor.

Conclusion

These delightful MeeMaw’s Baked Stuffing Balls are a must-try for any stuffing lover. Easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Give them a try and let us know how they turned out for you. We’d love to hear your thoughts and any creative variations you come up with!