Name: Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: ¾ cup butter; ½ cup diced onion; ½ cup diced celery; 1 ½ teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; ½ cup chicken broth; 2 large eggs; 10 cups cubed whole wheat or white bread (Use stale or lightly toasted bread); ½ cup chopped fresh parsley

Introduction to Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls

Every family has those cherished recipes, the ones that evoke warmth and nostalgic memories around the dinner table. Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls are more than just a dish; they represent love, tradition, and the joy of gathering together. Passed down through generations, this recipe captures the essence of comfort food—it's simple yet unbelievably satisfying.

The beauty of these stuffing balls lies in their delightful texture: crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. They are the perfect accompaniment to holiday favorites like turkey, mashed potatoes, and even cranberry sauce! Did you know that many people are looking for alternatives to traditional stuffing? Grandma Dot's version provides a unique twist that’s both fun and easy to love.

By preparing these stuffing balls ahead of time—maybe even while binge-watching a favorite show—you can focus on what really matters: spending quality time with your family. If you're on the hunt for easy yet impressive recipes, you might also find inspiration in resources like The Kitchn or Serious Eats. So, let's roll up our sleeves and dive into the delicious world of Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls, a recipe that truly brings family together.

Ingredients for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls

Creating Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls is a delightful experience, and having the right ingredients at hand is essential for achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Let’s break it down:

Butter: ¾ cup of butter adds richness and helps achieve that crispy exterior.
Onion and Celery: Using ½ cup each of diced onion and diced celery infuses the stuffing with aromatic bases that enhance the overall taste.
Seasonings: 1 ½ teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of poultry seasoning, and ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper elevate the flavor profile remarkably.
Broth and Eggs: Blend ½ cup of chicken broth with 2 large eggs—this moistens the stuffing and binds everything together.
Bread: 10 cups of cubed whole wheat or white bread create that comforting, soft center which everyone loves.
Fresh Parsley: Adding ½ cup of chopped fresh parsley not only delivers a pop of color but also a fresh taste that complements the dish beautifully.

These ingredients reflect not just a recipe, but a connection to family traditions. Ready to dive into making these deliciousness? Check out Allrecipes for even more culinary inspiration!

Preparing Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls

When it comes to holiday meals, Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls hold a special place in our hearts and on our dinner table. They are not only delicious but also a wonderful way to bring everyone together for a fun and hands-on cooking experience. Let’s dive into the preparation process, ensuring your stuffing balls turn out perfectly every time.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before we get cooking, let’s make sure we have everything you need right at your fingertips. Here’s a quick checklist:

¾ cup butter
½ cup diced onion
½ cup diced celery
1 ½ teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ cup chicken broth
2 large eggs
10 cups cubed whole wheat or white bread
½ cup chopped fresh parsley

Make sure your ingredients are fresh, especially the bread—stale or lightly toasted cubes work best to absorb all those wonderful flavors. You’ll also want to preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, greasing it lightly to prevent sticking.

Sauté Onions and Celery

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Now, add in your diced onion and celery, stirring occasionally until everything is softened—about 5 minutes will do. Sprinkle in that salt, poultry seasoning, and pepper, and let it sizzle for just a minute more to release aromatics that will fill your kitchen with the inviting scent of home cooking. This is the moment when you know the holiday spirit is just around the corner!

Mix Broth and Eggs

While your onions and celery are steaming away in flavor, grab a large bowl. Whisk together the chicken broth and eggs until well combined. This mixture will help bind your stuffing balls while adding extra moisture. Don’t worry—this step is super simple and crucial for the right texture.

Combine Mixtures

Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Fold the bread cubes and parsley into your broth and egg mix. Then, incorporate the sautéed onion and celery mixture. Make sure to mix gently but thoroughly. You want to ensure every piece of bread is coated in those delicious flavors, making your Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls unforgettable.

Shape and Bake the Stuffing Balls

Once your mixture is combined, use your hands to shape everything into 2-inch balls. Arrange these on your prepared baking sheet, allowing a little space between each one for even cooking. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crisp on the outside. Serve warm, and watch your friends and family dig in eagerly!

Feel free to check out other holiday recipes that pair perfectly with Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls. Whether it’s a succulent roast turkey or a vibrant cranberry sauce, they make the perfect festive addition to any meal. Enjoy the cooking and even more, enjoy the eating!

Variations on Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls

Stuffing Balls with Turkey Bacon

Give your Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls a savory twist by incorporating turkey bacon. Simply chop cooked turkey bacon into small pieces and fold it into the stuffing mixture before forming the balls. The turkey bacon adds a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the herbs and spices in the recipe. This variation is perfect for those who want to enjoy a heartier bite!

Herb-Infused Stuffing Balls

For a garden-fresh flavor, try infusing your stuffing balls with various herbs. Adding thyme, rosemary, or sage can elevate the taste profile significantly. Simply mix in a tablespoon of your favorite herbs into the bread mixture. This herb-infused variation not only enhances the flavor but also makes your stuffing balls visually appealing, with flecks of green herbs throughout. Get creative and mix and match your herbs for a truly personalized touch!

For more ideas on variations, check out Serious Eats or Food Network!

Cooking Tips for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls

Creating Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls is all about embracing flavor and texture. Here are some helpful tips to elevate your stuffing game:

Choose the Right Bread: Stale or lightly toasted bread cubes absorb moisture and flavor better, giving a richer taste.
Don’t Rush the Sauté: Cooking the onions and celery until they're soft releases their natural sweetness, enhancing overall flavor.
Room Temperature Matters: If you prep the stuffing balls a day in advance, allow them to come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
Serve with Style: Pairing these stuffing balls with turkey or chicken ham and a drizzle of gravy makes for an unforgettable dish.

For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, check out Cooking Light and Food Network. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls

When it comes to enjoying Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls, presentation and pairing can elevate the meal to new heights. These delightful, crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside treats are perfect for any holiday or casual gathering. Here are some serving ideas:

With Turkey or Chicken Ham: Nestle these stuffing balls next to sliced turkey or chicken ham for a comforting, classic feel.
Drizzle with Gravy: A light drizzle of homemade turkey or chicken gravy adds richness and savoriness.
Pair with Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish your plate with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and flavor.

Elevate your next gathering with Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls—they're sure to become a cherished part of your meals! For more inspiration, check out guides on creative side dishes or explore different gravy recipes.

Time Breakdown for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls

Prep Time

Getting everything ready for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls takes about 25 minutes. This includes chopping vegetables and mixing your ingredients. It’s a quick and satisfying process that sets the stage for deliciousness!

Bake Time

Once you shape the stuffing balls, you'll want to bake them for 25 minutes at 375 degrees F. This allows each ball to become beautifully golden and crispy on the outside.

Total Time

In total, you're looking at 50 minutes from start to finish. What's great is that these delightful stuffing balls can be prepped a day ahead! Just assemble everything, refrigerate, and pop them in the oven when you're ready to serve. For more time-saving tips, check out this guide on meal prep.

Now, who else is excited for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls to take center stage at the dinner table?

Nutritional Facts for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls

Calories

Each serving of Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls contains approximately 108 calories, making them a delightful, guilt-free accompaniment to your meal. It’s a great option if you're mindful of your caloric intake this holiday season.

Protein

These tasty morsels deliver about 3 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the eggs and bread. While not a protein powerhouse, they complement heartier dishes beautifully. Pair them with a protein-rich main like turkey or chicken ham for a balanced meal!

Sodium

With 289 mg of sodium per serving, Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls are a flavorful addition to your table without being overly salty. This allows you to control your overall sodium intake, especially when enjoying them alongside seasoned turkey or chicken ham. For more detailed nutritional advice, check expert resources like the American Heart Association.

Enjoy these delicious stuffing balls and create lasting memories with your loved ones this season!

FAQs about Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls

Can I make stuffing balls a day ahead?

Absolutely! One of the best things about Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls is their convenience. You can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just shape the mixture into balls, cover them, and let them chill. When you're ready to bake, bring them to room temperature, then pop them in the oven!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, trust us!), allow them to cool completely before storing. Place the stuffing balls in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven, or for a quicker option, use the microwave, but be mindful that microwaving might slightly change their texture.

Can I substitute ingredients?

Definitely! The beauty of Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls is their versatility. Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences. For instance, use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or add different herbs and spices to match your taste. You can even experiment with bread types; sourdough adds a lovely tang! For more tips on substitutions, check out this guide on cooking substitutions.

Conclusion on Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls

In conclusion, Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls are not just a recipe; they’re a delightful tradition that elevates any meal. Their unique texture and flavor make them the perfect pairing with turkey or chicken ham. Give them a try and enjoy a taste of nostalgia with every bite!