Stuffing Balls with Gravy: The Perfect Comfort Food
Introduction
Stuffing Balls with Gravy is a comforting, flavorful dish often associated with holiday dinners but can be enjoyed year-round. This recipe combines the warm, herby flavors of classic stuffing with a golden, crispy exterior and rich, savory gravy. Whether you’re preparing it as a side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy family meal, these stuffing balls are guaranteed to impress. Loved by many, they are easy to make, versatile, and an excellent way to repurpose leftover bread or stuffing mix.
Ingredients
For the Stuffing Balls:
6 cups cubed bread (preferably day-old or slightly stale)
1 cup celery, finely chopped
1 cup onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large eggs, beaten
1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
½ cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon dried sage
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon parsley (fresh or dried)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Gravy:
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Stuffing Mixture:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with the bread cubes. Sprinkle the sage, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper over the mixture.
- Gradually pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the bread mixture while tossing to ensure all pieces are evenly moistened. Add the beaten eggs and mix thoroughly.
- Shape the Stuffing Balls:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Using your hands or a scoop, form the mixture into golf ball-sized portions and place them on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Lightly press each ball to flatten slightly for even cooking.
- Bake the Stuffing Balls:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
- Make the Gravy:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the broth, ensuring no lumps form.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the gravy thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Serve:
Drizzle the warm gravy generously over the stuffing balls and serve immediately.
The History Behind Stuffing Balls
The concept of stuffing dates back to Ancient Rome, where cooks filled roasted birds with a mix of bread, herbs, and spices. Over time, stuffing evolved as a standalone dish, enjoyed not just inside poultry but also on its own. In more recent years, home cooks have shaped stuffing into balls, making them a convenient and visually appealing option for serving. The addition of gravy further enhances their flavor, turning them into a timeless comfort food.
Formation and Variations
Stuffing balls can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences.
For Vegetarians: Use vegetable broth and omit any meat-based ingredients.
For a Twist: Add dried cranberries, cooked sausage, or chopped nuts to the mixture.
For Gluten-Free: Substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread.
Conclusion
Stuffing Balls with Gravy combines the nostalgic essence of a traditional holiday meal with the convenience of a modern recipe. Perfectly portioned and bursting with flavor, these stuffing balls are a crowd-pleaser for all occasions.
Lovers of Stuffing Balls
Fans of stuffing balls range from those who cherish holiday traditions to foodies who love experimenting with versatile ingredients. Children enjoy the bite-sized portions, while adults appreciate the rich, herbaceous flavors. It’s a dish that brings people together, bridging generations and preferences.
Enjoy this classic dish and share it with your loved ones to create lasting memories around the table!