Introduction to Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
A heartwarming family recipe
Gather around the table and let me introduce you to a treasured delight: Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls. This recipe isn’t just a dish; it’s a slice of family history that brings warmth and nostalgia to any gathering. Passed down through generations, these stuffing balls are crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, taking center stage during holiday feasts or family dinners. Picture this: golden balls of savory bread, seasoned perfectly, making every bite an unforgettable experience. Whether you're serving them alongside turkey or drenching them in homemade gravy, they are bound to become a staple in your kitchen like they have in mine.
Why choose stuffing balls over traditional dressing?
You might wonder, why opt for stuffing balls instead of the usual dressing? For starters, the unique shape allows for a delightful crunch that traditional dressing often lacks. This makes them not only fun to eat but also easy to serve—perfect for festive gatherings! According to food enthusiasts, the construction of these balls enhances flavor absorption, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness. Plus, you can prepare these little gems a day in advance, making your holiday cooking a lot less stressful. Who doesn’t appreciate a bit of help during the bustling festive season? Check out this article to dive deeper into why stuffing is such a beloved dish!
Ingredients for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Essential ingredients for the perfect stuffing balls
When it comes to Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls, the right ingredients make all the difference. Here's what you'll need:
- ¾ cup unsalted butter: For that rich, buttery flavor.
- ½ cup diced onion: Adds depth and sweetness.
- ½ cup diced celery: Provides crunch and a hint of earthiness.
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning: The secret touch for that familiar holiday aroma.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: For a slight kick.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Keeps the stuffing balls moist and flavorful.
- 2 large eggs: Helps bind everything together.
- 10 cups cubed whole wheat or white bread: The base that soaks up all the flavor.
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds freshness and color.
Tips for ingredient selection
To truly elevate your Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls, consider these tips when selecting your ingredients:
- Use high-quality butter: It makes the stuffing richer.
- Opt for fresh herbs: They bring a brightness that dried herbs can't replicate.
- Stale or toasted bread is best: It absorbs liquids without getting soggy. More on bread selection can be found in this helpful guide.
By choosing the best ingredients, you’ll create stuffing balls that pay homage to Grandma Dot’s cherished recipe. Happy cooking!
Preparing Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Making Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls is more than just following a recipe; it’s about the love and warmth that goes into every bite. These delightful stuffing balls the perfect complement to your holiday table, but they’re also a way to hold onto cherished memories. Let’s dive into how to prepare them step-by-step!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before starting, be sure you have everything you need. Here’s your shopping list:
- 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
Having these on hand will streamline your cooking process. You can also consider ordering fresh ingredients from a local farmer's market if you want to elevate the taste with seasonal flavors.
Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet
To get started, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is essential for achieving that perfect golden exterior. While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and give it a light grease. This will help your stuffing balls come off effortlessly once they're baked. Easy cleanup? Yes, please!
Sauté the Vegetables for Maximum Flavor
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, stirring until they soften, which should take about five minutes. Sprinkle in the salt, poultry seasoning, and black pepper, allowing them to cook for an additional minute to release their fragrant oils. This technique maximizes the flavor of your stuffing balls and adds a deep, savory note to the dish.
Mix the Base Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and eggs. Then, gently fold in the cubed bread and fresh parsley. The bread should be slightly stale or lightly toasted for the best absorption of flavors.
Combine and Shape the Stuffing Balls
Once you’ve mixed in the sautéed vegetable mixture, it’s time to get your hands in there—literally! Use your hands to combine all the ingredients thoroughly before shaping the mixture into 24 (approximately 2-inch) balls. You’ll want to arrange these on your prepared baking sheet.
Baking to Golden Perfection
Finally, it’s time for the magic to happen! Bake the stuffing balls in your preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until they achieve that golden brown, crispy exterior. Keep a close eye on them, as all ovens can vary slightly.
Serve Warm and Enjoy!
Once baked, serve these delicious Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls warm with turkey and cranberry sauce—or enjoy them on their own. Remember, you can prep them a day ahead and pop them in the oven right before the feast. Happy cooking!
Variations on Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Herb-Infused Stuffing Balls
For a flavor boost, try adding a mix of fresh herbs to your Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls. Consider incorporating rosemary, thyme, and sage for a fragrant touch that elevates the dish to a new level. This herb-infused version not only enhances the flavor but also fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. A dash of lemon zest can also brighten up the profile—give it a try!
Veggie-Packed Stuffing Balls for a Healthier Option
Looking for a healthier twist? Add finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or even grated carrots to the stuffing mixture. These veggie-packed stuffing balls not only add nutrition but also a pop of color. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get in those greens—perfect for guests who may not typically enjoy their veggies! And you can easily substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
These small adjustments can create endless variations while still honoring Grandma Dot’s original recipe. Enjoy discovering your own favorites!
Cooking Notes for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
How to Ensure the Perfect Texture
For Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls, achieving that ideal golden-brown crispiness on the outside while keeping the inside soft and flavorful is key. Use stale or lightly toasted bread for maximum moisture absorption. Don't skip the chicken broth; it adds both flavor and helps bind the ingredients together. Shape the balls gently; overworking the mixture can lead to a dense texture.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Prepare Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls a day ahead by assembling and refrigerating them unbaked for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to serve, bring them to room temperature before baking for even cooking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness. For more tips on storing stuffing, check out Love Food Hate Waste for great food preservation ideas!
Serving suggestions for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Pairing with turkey and cranberry sauce
There’s something truly special about serving Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls alongside succulent turkey and tangy cranberry sauce. The crispy exterior of the stuffing balls adds a delightful crunch that complements the tenderness of the turkey, while the sweetness of the cranberry sauce offers the perfect contrast. Consider drizzling a bit of the sauce over the stuffing balls for an extra burst of flavor—your guests will thank you!
Creative serving ideas for gatherings
Hosting a gathering? Give Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls an elegant twist! Serve them as bite-sized appetizers on skewers with a dollop of dipping sauce, or place them on a charcuterie board, pairing them with slices of turkey bacon and chicken ham. This creates a delightful spread that encourages mingling and grazing. You can also incorporate seasonal herbs for garnish, adding color and fragrance. For more tips on great pairings, check out Epicurious to inspire your culinary creativity!
Time details for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Preparation Time
Gathering your ingredients and getting everything ready takes about 25 minutes. Toss the diced onions and celery into the skillet, and while they're softening, you can measure the bread cubes and herbs.
Cooking Time
Once shaped into delightful balls, baking them in the oven takes around 25 minutes. Keep an eye out for that perfect golden brown color!
Total Time
In just 50 minutes, you’ll have Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls ready to serve. Enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen as you prepare this family favorite! Want to explore more unique stuffing recipes? Check out Serious Eats for creative twists!
Nutritional Information for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Calories and Key Nutrients
Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls are an ideal accompaniment to any festive meal, packing in about 108 calories per serving. Each ball contains 7g of total fat, 2g of dietary fiber, and a modest 3g of protein, making them a tasty yet balanced choice for your holiday spread.
Dietary Considerations
For those watching their sodium intake, note that each serving has approximately 289mg of sodium. If you're considering dietary restrictions, these stuffing balls can easily accommodate vegetarian diets by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Plus, they’re made with whole grain bread, enhancing their nutritional profile. Feel free to explore more on dietary guidelines through resources like ChooseMyPlate.gov to ensure these delightful bites fit your meal planning needs.
FAQs about Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Can I prep these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls can be made in advance. You can assemble the stuffing balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping them in the oven to ensure even cooking.
How do I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is a big if!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them for up to a month. To reheat, simply bake them at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for that perfect crispy exterior.
What are common ingredient substitutes?
Got specific dietary needs? No problem! Here are a few substitutes you can try:
- For butter, use olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Swap out chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian.
- Instead of whole wheat bread, feel free to use gluten-free bread if you’re avoiding gluten.
These options ensure everyone can enjoy Grandma Dot's delightful recipe! For more ingredient tips, check out this source on substitutes.
Conclusion on Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Why you'll love this recipe for years to come
Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls bring warmth and comfort to your table, making them a delightful addition to any gathering. Their crispy exterior and soft interior create a beautiful contrast your family will cherish. With a memory behind each bite, this recipe will surely become a family favorite for years to come.
Encouragement to experiment and make it your own
Don’t hesitate to make Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls your own! Add your favorite herbs, toss in some nuts for crunch, or substitute in turkey bacon or chicken ham. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine. After all, the best recipes evolve and adapt just like our family traditions.
Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Equipment
- large skillet
- baking sheet
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
Base 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
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- 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!
Leave a Reply