Pin Savory, golden stuffing balls bursting with herbs and festive flavors—perfect for a speedy holiday side or appetizer.
I first served this stuffing during a busy Christmas celebration and it was a huge hit with the family.
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 recipe has brought joy to our holiday dinners and continues to be a family favorite.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, baking tray, parchment paper, sharp knife, chopping board
Allergen Information
Contains gluten and dairy. May contain nuts if optional ingredients are included. Egg allergies should avoid the optional egg addition.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 145 per serving (2 balls), Total Fat: 7 g, Carbohydrates: 18 g, Protein: 3 g
Pin Enjoy these stuffing balls warm for a quick festive treat that everyone will love.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make these stuffing balls vegan?
Yes, replace the melted butter with olive oil or vegan margarine to keep the dish vegan-friendly.
- → What herbs are used in these stuffing balls?
Fresh parsley, sage, and thyme provide the aromatic, festive flavor in these balls.
- → Can dried fruit or nuts be added?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries or apricots and walnuts or pecans can be mixed in for added texture and flavor.
- → How should the bread be prepared before mixing?
Use day-old white or whole wheat bread, crusts removed and cubed, softened with hot vegetable stock before mixing.
- → What is the best way to bake the balls?
Place shaped balls on a lined baking tray and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 18–20 minutes until golden and crisp.
- → Can these stuffing balls be prepared in advance?
Yes, they can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.