Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls

Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Soft on the inside, golden on the outside, and full of cozy, herby flavor, Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls are the ultimate holiday side dish that deserves a year-round spot on your table. Whether you’re reminiscing about family dinners or just looking for a fun twist on traditional stuffing, these bite-sized treasures deliver comfort in every mouthful.

They pair perfectly with gravy or cranberry sauce and make portion control a breeze. Ideal for entertaining or meal prepping, these stuffing balls hold their shape, reheat beautifully, and are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.


Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the recipe, let’s gather a few kitchen essentials that will help bring Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls to perfection:

  • Large Mixing Bowl: This is where all the magic starts. You’ll be combining the stuffing mix, broth, eggs, and seasonings here, so choose one with ample space.
  • Cookie Scoop or Ice Cream Scoop: For consistent size and shape, a scoop makes forming the balls quick and easy.
  • Baking Sheet: A non-stick or parchment-lined baking sheet ensures even browning and easy clean-up.
  • Oven: Baking gives these stuffing balls their golden crust while keeping the insides tender.
  • Cooling Rack (optional): If you want to avoid sogginess on the bottom, transferring the balls to a cooling rack briefly after baking helps maintain texture.

Having the right tools helps streamline the process and ensures that your stuffing balls are crisped to golden perfection without falling apart.


Ingredients for the Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, moisture, and structure. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Stuffing Mix: The heart of the recipe, it provides the herby flavor and fluffy texture.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and enhances the savory notes in the stuffing.
  • Butter: Gives richness and helps bind the ingredients.
  • Celery & Onion: These aromatic vegetables bring crunch and depth.
  • Eggs: Essential for binding everything together.
  • Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness.
  • Salt & Pepper: Enhances and balances the overall flavor.

How To Make the Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the diced onion and celery until they’re tender and translucent. This builds the base flavor and softens the texture.

Step 2: Mix It All Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry stuffing mix, sautéed vegetables (including the butter), beaten eggs, chopped parsley, and chicken broth. Stir gently until all the liquid is absorbed and the mixture holds together when squeezed.

Step 3: Form the Balls

Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into evenly-sized balls. They should be about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the stuffing balls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside. Let cool slightly before serving.


How to Serve and Store Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls

Serve these golden-baked stuffing balls straight from the oven alongside turkey, chicken, or a hearty vegetable roast. They shine on holiday spreads and make an easy-to-grab side for buffet-style gatherings. For a delicious dip or drizzle, pair them with homemade gravy or a dollop of cranberry sauce.

To store leftovers, place cooled stuffing balls in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to restore their crispy edges.


Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep stuffing balls from falling apart?

The eggs and broth act as binders. Be sure to let the mixture sit a few minutes after mixing so the stuffing can absorb the moisture, which helps them hold shape better.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and form the balls up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator, then bake just before serving.

Can I use homemade stuffing instead of boxed mix?

Yes, homemade stuffing works great. Just make sure it’s on the drier side so the mixture isn’t too wet when forming the balls.

What protein do these go best with?

They pair wonderfully with roasted turkey, rotisserie chicken, pork tenderloin, or even a vegetarian mushroom gravy.

Are they freezer-friendly?

Yes! Freeze after baking for best results. To reheat, pop them in the oven until crispy again—no need to thaw first.

Can I add sausage or bacon?

Definitely. Cooked sausage or crumbled bacon makes a flavorful addition. Just reduce the salt slightly if you add these extras.


Want More Side Dish Ideas?

If you’re loving Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls, you’ll enjoy exploring these other cozy and creative side dishes from Life With Olivia:


Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so you can come back to it anytime: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you stick to the classic or put your own twist on it? Add sausage? Extra herbs?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are always welcome—let’s make your next dinner a delicious success together!


Pin this Recipe
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls

Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls


  • Author: Olivia McKenney
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 stuffing balls

Description

Golden on the outside, soft and herby on the inside, Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls are the perfect bite-sized twist on traditional stuffing. Ideal for holidays or cozy weeknight dinners, they pair beautifully with gravy or cranberry sauce and are freezer-friendly too.


Ingredients

2 cups stuffing mix

1 cup chicken broth

1/4 cup butter

1/2 cup diced celery

1/2 cup diced onion

2 large eggs, beaten

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper


Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the diced onion and celery until tender and translucent.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine stuffing mix, sautéed vegetables (including the butter), beaten eggs, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Stir until well combined and mixture holds shape.

3. Form into golf ball-sized portions using a cookie scoop or hands and place on a lined baking sheet.

4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and crisp on the outside.

5. Let cool slightly and serve warm with gravy or cranberry sauce.

Notes

Let the mixture sit for a few minutes before shaping the balls so the stuffing absorbs the broth fully.

Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizes and even cooking.

If adding sausage or bacon, reduce added salt accordingly.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 stuffing balls
  • Calories: 160
  • Sugar: 2
  • Sodium: 390
  • Fat: 9
  • Saturated Fat: 4
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 15
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 5
  • Cholesterol: 65

Keywords: holiday, stuffing balls, thanksgiving, easy sides

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?