Crispy Stuffing Balls with Rich Gravy – A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Side Dish

Introduction

These crispy stuffing balls with rich gravy bring a unique and delicious twist to traditional stuffing. They are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with savory flavors. Drizzled with a smooth, homemade gravy, these bite-sized stuffing balls are perfect for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or a comforting side dish any time of year.

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, mix breadcrumbs, celery, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, sage, and thyme.
3. Stir in the beaten egg, broth, and melted butter, ensuring the mixture holds together.
4. Shape into small, round balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

2. Bake Until Golden and Crispy

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through for even browning.
2. For an extra crispy exterior, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.

3. Make the Gravy

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

4. Serve and Enjoy

1. Drizzle warm gravy over the crispy stuffing balls before serving.
2. Enjoy as a side dish with roast turkey, chicken, mashed potatoes, or sautéed vegetables.

Tips for Perfect Stuffing Balls

• Use day-old bread or pre-made stuffing for the best texture.
• If the mixture feels too dry, add a little extra broth to help it bind.
• Try mixing in cooked sausage, bacon, or cheese for added flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make stuffing balls ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and bake them in advance, then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes before serving.

Can I use boxed stuffing mix?
Absolutely! Just adjust the seasonings as pre-packaged stuffing may already contain salt and herbs.

What pairs well with stuffing balls?
They go great with turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, or roasted Brussels sprouts.

Conclusion

These crispy stuffing balls with rich gravy are the perfect balance of crunchy, savory, and satisfying. Whether for holiday meals, special occasions, or an easy weeknight side dish, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Try this fun, bite-sized stuffing recipe today and bring something new to your dinner table!