Introduction to Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
The Story Behind Grandma Dot's Family Recipe
Every family has that one dish that warms the heart and brings everyone together, and for my family, it’s Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls. This cherished recipe dates back to the time when Grandma Dot would gather everyone for Sunday dinners, filling the house with the delightful aroma of freshly baked stuffing. Each bite of these stuffing balls brings back those cherished memories of laughter, stories, and the unmistakable sense of belonging.
The unique texture of crispy outsides and soft insides makes these stuffing balls an irresistible alternative to traditional dressing. They pair perfectly with turkey and cranberry sauce, creating a delightful bite that everyone loves. Grandma believed in keeping her recipes simple but packed with flavor, which is what you’ll find in this one. When tested by the Allrecipes Test Kitchen, it earned rave reviews, making it clear that Grandma Dot’s legacy lives on.
Preparing these delightful orbs of goodness is a breeze, and the option to prep a day in advance makes them a favorite for modern hosts balancing busy schedules. So, gather your ingredients, crank up the oven, and prepare to create culinary magic that pays homage to family traditions. Want to explore more Thanksgiving ideas? Check out Food Network's Guide to Thanksgiving.
Ingredients for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Essential ingredients for the perfect stuffing balls
To create Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls, you'll need a few key ingredients that come together beautifully to deliver flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- ¾ cup of butter for richness
- ½ cup diced onion for sweetness
- ½ cup diced celery adds a lovely crunch
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt to enhance flavor
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning for that classic taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper for a bit of spice
- ½ cup chicken broth to moisten everything
- 2 large eggs, acting as a binder
- 10 cups of cubed whole wheat or white bread for the base
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley for a pop of freshness
These ingredients work together to create a delightful balance, making each bite of stuffing balls a treat.
Tips for selecting the right bread
When it comes to choosing the right bread for your stuffing balls, opt for stale or lightly toasted bread. This not only absorbs flavors better but also prevents sogginess. Whole wheat bread adds a hearty texture, while white bread offers a light and fluffy option. If you're feeling adventurous, consider using sourdough or multigrain bread for a taste twist! For more tips on selecting bread for stuffing, check out The Kitchn.
Step-by-step preparation of Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Every bite of Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls delivers a delightful crunch complemented by a fluffy, flavorful center. If you've ever wanted to bring a piece of your childhood into your kitchen, this is it! Here’s how you can easily prepare these delicious bites.
Gather and prep your ingredients
Start by assembling all of your ingredients. Having everything ready will streamline the process and keep your workspace tidy. You’ll need:
- 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
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
Sauté the aromatics
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s sizzling, add the diced onion and celery. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until they become soft and translucent. This step is crucial as it releases rich flavors into the stuffing mixture. Once done, stir in the salt, poultry seasoning, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Combine broth and eggs
While your aromatics are cooling slightly, grab a large bowl and whisk together the chicken broth and eggs. This liquid mixture binds the stuffing and ensures that every morsel is seasoned.
Mix everything together
Now it’s time for the fun part! Fold in the cubed bread and parsley into the broth and egg mixture. Gently stir until the bread cubes are well coated. Then, take the sautéed onion and celery mixture and add it to your bowl. Use a spoon or your hands to blend everything, ensuring that the bread absorbs all those delicious flavors.
Shape and arrange the stuffing balls
Using your hands, shape the mixture into golf ball-sized rounds (about 2 inches in diameter). You should get around 24 stuffing balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each ball for even cooking.
Bake to golden perfection
Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and let those babies bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a beautiful golden brown and become crisp on the outside. The aroma filling your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting their turn to dig in!
So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and try out these Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls—they're perfect for holidays or any cozy gathering! And remember, if you're looking for tips on how to store them, check out resources like the USDA’s guidelines on food storage for extra tips!
Variations on Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Herb-infused stuffing balls
Looking to elevate your Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls? Try adding a variety of fresh herbs! Mixing in herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage gives them a savory twist. Simply replace half of the parsley in the original recipe with your preferred herbs. It’s an excellent way to use up that leftover fresh herb bundle!
Cheesy stuffing balls
For those who can't resist cheese, consider transforming your stuffing balls into cheesy delights. Mix in a cup of shredded cheese—sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even a smoky gouda work beautifully. Just fold it into the mixture before shaping the balls. This extra step adds creamy richness and a gooey surprise that’s sure to impress at your next gathering.
Feel free to explore your creativity! You can also check out Food Network or Bon Appétit for more inspiring variations on stuffing recipes!
Cooking tips and notes for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
How to achieve the best texture
To make Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls truly shine, use stale or lightly toasted bread cubes. This step helps the stuffing absorb moisture and flavor during baking, resulting in a mouthwatering crisp exterior and soft center. You want to ensure the bread is not too fresh, as it may become soggy. If you have time, let your mixture sit for a few minutes before forming the balls—this allows the bread to soak in the flavors.
Substituting ingredients for dietary preferences
Adapting Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls to fit dietary needs is easier than you might think. For a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free bread or use quinoa instead of bread to maintain texture and flavor. You can also replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Don't hesitate to experiment by adding turkey bacon or vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for added depth. Keep it flavorful and fitting for your guest preferences! For more tips on ingredient substitutions, check out EatingWell.
Serving suggestions for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Pairing with turkey and cranberry sauce
Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls are the perfect complement to your holiday turkey dinner. Imagine serving them alongside juicy turkey and a generous spoonful of cranberry sauce. The subtle seasoning in the stuffing adds a delightful crunch while the tartness of the cranberry balances out the rich flavors of the turkey. It’s a match made in culinary heaven! For a tasty twist, consider adding a drizzle of turkey gravy over your stuffing balls for added moisture and flavor.
Using as a fun appetizer
Not just for the main event, Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls make a fantastic appetizer too! Picture your guests arriving to find these crispy, savory delights waiting for them. Serve them warm with a side of savory dipping sauce, like a tangy mustard or a rich garlic aioli. They’re easy to pop in your mouth and provide that perfect balance of comfort and sophistication. You can even create a fun platter with assorted dips to elevate the experience. For more appetizer ideas, check out this guide.
Time Breakdown for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Preparation Time
To get these delightful stuffing balls ready, you'll need about 25 minutes. This time will allow you to chop your veggies, melt the butter, and mix all the ingredients seamlessly.
Cooking Time
Once shaped, these Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls bake in the oven for 25 minutes. This is where they turn golden brown and develop that perfect crispy outer layer.
Total Time
All in all, from preparation to cooking, you’re looking at a total of 50 minutes. If you're in a pinch, feel free to prep these a day in advance and store them in the fridge. That makes serving them a breeze!
Nutritional Facts for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Calories per serving
Each serving of Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls contains approximately 108 calories. This makes them a delightful yet manageable addition to your holiday meal or everyday dinner.
Key vitamins and minerals
Beyond just calories, these stuffing balls pack a nice nutritional punch with important vitamins and minerals, including:
- Vitamin C: 2 mg to boost your immune system.
- Calcium: 29 mg for healthy bones.
- Iron: 1 mg to support red blood cell production.
- Potassium: 76 mg for maintaining heart health.
These stuffing balls combine flavor and nutrition beautifully, making them not only delicious but also a thoughtful choice for any meal. Plus, they’re easy to prep ahead of time—what’s not to love? If you want a deeper dive into nutrition, consider checking out Healthline.
FAQs about Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Can I make stuffing balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before popping them in the oven. This makes them an excellent option for those busy holiday prep days!
What are some serving ideas for stuffing balls?
These stuffing balls are versatile! Serve them alongside your juicy turkey and cranberry sauce, or try them as an accompaniment for hearty soups. You can even jazz them up with a drizzle of gravy or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of flavor.
How do I store leftover stuffing balls?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just thaw and reheat when you're ready to enjoy again!
Feel free to explore more delicious recipes like these on Allrecipes for more inspiration in your kitchen!
Conclusion on Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls are more than just a dish; they’re a cherished tradition that brings warmth to family gatherings. Their delightful crunch and savory flavor complement any holiday feast. Remember, you can prep these ahead for a stress-free celebration. Pair them with turkey and cranberry sauce for a perfect bite!
Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Equipment
- oven
- skillet
- baking sheet
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- ¾ cup butter
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ cup diced celery
- 1 ½ teaspoon 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
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Gather all ingredients. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil; grease the foil.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and celery; cook and stir until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in salt, poultry seasoning, and pepper; cook and stir until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat.
- Meanwhile, whisk chicken broth and eggs together in a large bowl. Fold in bread cubes and parsley.
- Add onion mixture to bread cubes; mix until combined.
- Use your hands to shape mixture into 24 (2-inch) balls; arrange on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven until golden and crisp, about 20 to 25 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!
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