Crispy Stuffing Balls with Savory Gravy – A Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish

Introduction

These crispy stuffing balls with savory gravy are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional stuffing. They have a golden, crunchy exterior and a soft, herby interior, making them the perfect complement to holiday feasts, family dinners, or weeknight comfort meals. Drizzled with rich, homemade gravy, these bite-sized delights are sure to be a hit at your table!

Ingredients

(Serves 6-8)

For the Stuffing Balls:

• 4 cups breadcrumbs or leftover stuffing
• ½ cup celery, finely chopped
• ½ cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried sage
• ½ tsp thyme
• 1 egg, beaten
• ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp melted butter

For the Gravy:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken or turkey broth
• ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Stuffing Balls

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs, celery, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, sage, and thyme.
3. Stir in the beaten egg, broth, and melted butter until everything is well mixed.
4. Shape the mixture into small, round balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

2. Bake the Stuffing Balls

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even browning.
2. For an extra crispy crust, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.

3. Prepare the Gravy

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.
3. Slowly add broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring until smooth and thick.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Serve and Enjoy

1. Drizzle warm gravy over the crispy stuffing balls.
2. Serve as a side dish with turkey, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

Tips for the Best Stuffing Balls

• Use day-old bread or stuffing for a firmer texture.
• If the mixture is too dry, add extra broth until it holds together.
• Add chopped sausage, bacon, or shredded cheese for an extra savory touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes! Bake them in advance and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes before serving.

Can I use boxed stuffing mix?
Definitely! Just reduce the added seasonings, as pre-packaged stuffing already contains herbs and spices.

What other dishes pair well with stuffing balls?
These go great with roast turkey, ham, cranberry sauce, and green beans.

Conclusion

These crispy stuffing balls with savory gravy are a delicious, fun, and easy-to-make side dish that will add a unique touch to any meal. Whether you serve them during the holidays or as a comforting side, their crispy texture and flavorful filling make them an absolute must-try. Give this recipe a try today and enjoy a new take on stuffing!