Easy Stuffing Balls Recipe for Holidays

Nothing says holiday comfort quite like **Stuffing Balls**, a delightful twist on classic stuffing that’s packed with flavor, easy to handle, and perfect for sharing. This recipe celebrates the rich taste of smoked turkey bacon, creamy plant-based cheese, and a blend of natural seasonings to craft bite-sized morsels that burst with festive goodness. Whether you’re making a holiday feast or just craving something warm and savory, these stuffing balls are sure to become your new favorite tradition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: Simple steps make these stuffing balls a welcome addition to any holiday cooking lineup.
• Flavor-packed ingredients: Smoked turkey bacon and natural seasonings create a savory profile that’s irresistible.
• Perfect bite-sized portions: Easy to serve and share, making holiday gatherings more festive and fun.
• Plant-based cheese for creaminess: Adds richness without overpowering the natural flavors.
• Versatile for all diets: Adaptable recipe to suit different tastes and preferences with ease.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing its part to create a perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. These key components come together to make stuffing balls that are moist, flavorful, and irresistibly golden.

• Smoked turkey bacon: Adds a smoky, savory depth while keeping the dish hearty.
• Plant-based cheese: Brings creamy texture and slight tanginess to complement the spices.
• Breadcrumbs: Help bind the mixture and deliver a satisfying crunch on the outside.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural): Imparts umami complexity enhancing overall flavor.
• Onion and garlic powder (natural): Provide aromatic warmth without overpowering the dish.
• Fresh parsley: Offers a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness.
• Apple cider vinegar (natural): Balances richness and lifts flavors with a mild acidity.
• Natural gelling agent: Helps maintain the stuffing balls’ shape and consistency.
• Olive oil (natural): Ensures a golden crisp exterior when baked or pan-fried.

Variations for Stuffing Balls

Feel free to tailor these stuffing balls to suit your favorite tastes or dietary requirements. Experimenting with ingredients allows you to keep this dish exciting and unique every time you make it.

• Veggie-packed option: Add finely chopped mushrooms or grated carrots for extra nutrition and moisture.
• Herb twist: Swap parsley for rosemary or thyme to bring a different herbal aroma.
• Cheesy swap: Use a sharp plant-based cheddar (plant-based) instead of mild cheese for a bolder flavor.
• Spicy flair: Mix in a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to add warmth and kick.
• Gluten-free version: Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free crumbs or crushed nuts to accommodate restrictions.

How to Make Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Prepare the base ingredients

Start by cooking the smoked turkey bacon until it’s crispy, then chop into small pieces. In a large bowl, combine the cooked bacon, plant-based cheese, breadcrumbs, onion and garlic powder (natural), fresh parsley, and natural gelling agent. Toss everything together so the flavors and textures begin to marry.

Step 2: Add moisture and seasonings

Pour in the vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) and apple cider vinegar (natural), then drizzle olive oil (natural). Mix gently but thoroughly, ensuring every bite will be packed with balanced flavor and the mixture holds together well for shaping.

Step 3: Shape the stuffing balls

Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized balls about the size of a walnut. Place them evenly spaced on a parchment-lined baking tray to prepare for cooking.

Step 4: Cook to perfection

Bake the stuffing balls at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden and crisp on the outside, flipping halfway through for even browning. Alternatively, pan-fry gently in olive oil (natural) for a crunchy texture infused with extra flavor.

Pro Tips for Making Stuffing Balls

• Use day-old bread crumbs: They soak up moisture better, giving your balls the perfect texture.
• Don’t overmix: Handle the mixture lightly to keep a tender bite and prevent toughness.
• Even sizing matters: Make your stuffing balls uniform so they cook evenly every time.
• Rest before baking: Let the shaped balls sit for 10 minutes to help them set and hold shape.
• Try a light coat of olive oil (natural): Brushing them before baking adds a lovely golden finish.

How to Serve Stuffing Balls

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a dusting of smoked paprika brings inviting color and enhances the herbaceous notes in each ball, making your presentation lively and festive.

Side Dishes

Pair these stuffing balls with roasted root vegetables, sautéed green beans, or a tangy cranberry sauce to balance the savory richness effortlessly, creating a well-rounded holiday plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the stuffing balls on a beautiful platter with toothpicks for easy snacking at parties, or arrange them around a bowl of plant-based gravy for a fun dipping experience that guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked or cooked stuffing balls by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer until firm, then transfer them into freezer-safe bags or containers. They will keep well for up to three months.

Reheating

Reheat stuffing balls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through, allowing the exterior to crisp up again gently.

FAQs

Can I make Stuffing Balls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and shape stuffing balls a day in advance, then refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to cook. This makes holiday meal prep easier and less stressful.

Are Stuffing Balls gluten-free friendly?

Yes, by substituting traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed nuts or certified gluten-free crumbs, you can enjoy this dish without gluten concerns.

Can I bake Stuffing Balls without olive oil?

While olive oil helps achieve a beautiful golden crust, you can bake them without it; they may be less crispy but still delicious and satisfying.

How do I store leftovers to keep them fresh?

Store stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze them if you want to keep them longer, ensuring you reheat them properly before serving.

Can I add vegetables to these Stuffing Balls?

Certainly! Finely chopped or grated vegetables such as carrots, mushrooms, or celery can be mixed in to add flavor, texture, and nutrition without changing the core appeal of the dish.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a festive, easy, and crowd-pleasing side dish, Stuffing Balls are your new go-to. Bursting with savory smoked turkey bacon, creamy plant-based cheese, and lively natural seasonings, this recipe offers a cozy and fun twist on classic stuffing that everyone will love. Give it a try and watch these little bites disappear fast around your holiday table!

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