Stuffing balls, also known as sausage stuffing balls or even savory bread balls, are the epitome of comfort food. These delightful little morsels, bursting with savory sausage, herbs, and melted cheese, offer a fantastic twist on traditional stuffing. Forget dry, crumbly stuffing; these cheesy sausage stuffing balls are perfectly moist, intensely flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a unique Thanksgiving side dish, a hearty appetizer for a holiday gathering, or a delicious addition to your weeknight dinner, these stuffing balls are sure to be a hit. They’re surprisingly easy to make, requiring only simple ingredients and straightforward techniques. Imagine the warm, cheesy goodness, the juicy bursts of sausage, and the aromatic herbs all mingling together in each bite. Prepare to be amazed by how much flavor these little balls pack!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls Recipe
There’s a lot to love about this recipe for cheesy sausage stuffing balls. First and foremost, they’re incredibly flavorful. The combination of Italian sausage, savory herbs like sage and thyme, and sharp Parmesan cheese creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile that’s hard to resist. The sausage adds a richness and juiciness that complements the slightly crispy exterior of the stuffing balls. The herbs provide a wonderful aromatic depth, while the Parmesan cheese delivers a salty and umami punch. And let’s not forget the satisfying texture: a crispy golden-brown exterior giving way to a soft, moist, and flavorful interior. It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Beyond the taste, these stuffing balls are incredibly versatile. They are perfect as a side dish alongside your favorite roasted meats, such as chicken, turkey, or pork. They’re also a fantastic addition to soup or stew, or even served as an appetizer with a dipping sauce. Their portability also makes them ideal for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or even a simple weeknight dinner. The recipe itself is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to experiment with different herbs, cheeses, and even add-ins like cranberries or nuts to customize them to your liking. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with variations, you’re guaranteed a delicious result.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, these cheesy sausage stuffing balls are surprisingly easy to make. The entire process, from prepping the ingredients to baking the finished product, takes less than an hour. Even novice cooks will find this recipe accessible and enjoyable. There’s no complicated technique or specialized equipment required; just simple ingredients and straightforward instructions. This makes them a perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The simple steps lead to an impressive and delicious result, making you feel like a culinary master.
Why You Should Try This Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls Recipe
This recipe for cheesy sausage stuffing balls isn’t just another stuffing recipe; it’s a game-changer. If you’re tired of dry, bland stuffing, this recipe is your solution. These stuffing balls elevate the classic stuffing experience to a whole new level. The combination of perfectly seasoned sausage, aromatic herbs, and melted cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Forget the usual side dish; these stuffing balls are a star attraction in themselves.
Trying this recipe opens up a world of culinary possibilities. Imagine serving these flavorful balls alongside a perfectly roasted Thanksgiving turkey or as a delightful appetizer at your next holiday gathering. The versatility of these stuffing balls is unmatched. They can be easily customized to your preferences, allowing for endless experimentation with herbs, cheeses, and add-ins. This recipe provides a framework for creating your signature stuffing ball masterpiece. Don’t just take our word for it; try this recipe and experience the magic yourself!
Beyond the exceptional taste and versatility, making these stuffing balls is a fun and rewarding experience. The process is simple and straightforward, allowing you to enjoy the culinary process without feeling overwhelmed. It’s a fantastic opportunity to involve family and friends in the cooking process, turning meal preparation into a shared and enjoyable experience. The satisfaction of creating something delicious and visually appealing from simple ingredients is priceless. This recipe will become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients and Utensils for Perfect Stuffing Balls
- Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or hot, your preference), casings removed – This provides the savory base and juicy texture. Look for high-quality sausage for the best flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile. Yellow or white onions work well.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped – Provides a subtle earthy note and textural contrast.
- 1 cup dried bread cubes (day-old bread works best) – The foundation of the stuffing balls; day-old bread absorbs moisture better. You can also use cubed stuffing mix.
- 1/2 cup milk – Helps moisten the bread and bind the ingredients together.
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten – Acts as a binder, helping to hold the stuffing balls together.
- 1 teaspoon dried sage – Classic stuffing herb, providing a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – Adds a slightly peppery, aromatic note.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients. Adjust to your taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a subtle spiciness and complexity.
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese – Provides a salty, umami flavor and melts beautifully.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional) – Adds freshness and brightness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the sausage, onion, and celery.
- 1 cup chicken broth (or more as needed) – Added to the baking sheet for moisture and to prevent sticking.
- Utensils:
- Large skillet – For sautéing the sausage, onion, and celery.
- Large bowl – For combining all the ingredients.
- Baking sheet – For baking the stuffing balls.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – For mixing and stirring.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate measurements.
- Optional: Cookie scoop – For uniform stuffing ball size.
Detailed Recipe Steps for Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or olive oil. This prevents sticking and ensures even browning.
- Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. **Important:** Be sure to cook the sausage thoroughly to ensure it’s safe to eat. Once browned, add the chopped onion and celery to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain off any excess grease before proceeding. This step builds the flavor foundation of your stuffing balls.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage mixture, bread cubes, milk, egg, sage, thyme, salt, pepper, Parmesan cheese, and parsley (if using). Gently mix until everything is well combined and the bread is moistened. **Tip:** Don’t overmix; you want the bread to remain slightly chunky. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the bread to fully absorb the liquid. This is crucial for creating moist and flavorful stuffing balls.
- Shape the Stuffing Balls: Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch to 1 1/2-inch balls. **Pro Tip:** Wetting your hands slightly can help prevent the mixture from sticking. For perfectly uniform balls, you can use a cookie scoop. This ensures even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
- Bake the Stuffing Balls: Place the stuffing balls on the prepared baking sheet. Pour 1 cup of chicken broth into the bottom of the baking sheet. This creates steam, preventing the bottom from drying out. **Baking Time:** Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and heated through. Add more broth halfway through if the bottom is getting too dry. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the stuffing balls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve warm as a side dish to your favorite main course. They are delicious with roasted chicken, turkey, pork, or even alongside a hearty soup or stew.
Tips and Variations for Your Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls
This recipe is easily adaptable to your taste and dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage, herbs, and cheeses. Here are a few suggestions:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Or use hot Italian sausage instead of mild.
- Herby variations: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary, oregano, or marjoram.
- Cheese variations: Try using a blend of cheeses, such as mozzarella, provolone, or even Gruyere.
- Add-ins: Incorporate chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts), dried cranberries, or even finely chopped apples for added texture and flavor.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free bread cubes or a gluten-free stuffing mix.
- Vegan option: Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles and use a vegan egg replacement.
- Avoid Common Mistakes: Don’t overmix the stuffing mixture; a slightly chunky texture is desirable. Ensure the bread is adequately moistened to prevent dry stuffing balls. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; allow space for even browning.
Nutritional Information and Benefits of Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls
While the exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, a serving of these cheesy sausage stuffing balls will generally provide a good source of protein from the sausage and bread, carbohydrates from the bread, and fats from the sausage and cheese. The specific calorie count, protein, fat, and carbohydrate content will vary based on portion size and ingredient choices. For precise nutritional information, consider using a nutrition calculator tool online and entering the specific ingredients and their quantities.
The ingredients in these stuffing balls also offer several health benefits. Onions and celery are excellent sources of vitamins and antioxidants. Sage and thyme possess anti-inflammatory properties. Parmesan cheese is a good source of calcium. However, it’s important to remember that moderation is key, as these stuffing balls are relatively high in calories, fat, and sodium.
FAQs about Stuffing Balls
What are stuffing balls?
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Are stuffing balls gluten-free?
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Stuffing Balls Recipe
These cheesy sausage stuffing balls are more than just a side dish; they’re a culinary adventure waiting to happen. With their irresistible blend of savory sausage, aromatic herbs, and melty cheese, they elevate the classic stuffing experience to new heights. The recipe’s simplicity and versatility make it perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike. From Thanksgiving feasts to weeknight dinners, these stuffing balls are guaranteed to impress.
We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family! And for more delicious recipes, be sure to check out our other posts, such as our Creamy Lasagna Soup or our Creamy Pumpkin Ravioli. Happy cooking!
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Cheesy Sausage Stuffing Balls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Add the onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage mixture, bread cubes, milk, egg, sage, thyme, salt, pepper, Parmesan cheese, and parsley (if using). Gently mix until everything is well combined and the bread is moistened. Let sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch to 1 1/2-inch balls.
- Place the stuffing balls on the prepared baking sheet. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through. Add more broth halfway through if the bottom is getting too dry.
- Serve warm as a side dish.
