Introduction:
Savory Sausage Stuffing Balls are the perfect bite-sized addition to your holiday table or any family gathering.
Packed with the flavors of sausage, breadcrumbs, and aromatic seasonings, these stuffing balls are a fun twist on traditional stuffing.
They’re crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and incredibly easy to make ahead of time, making them ideal for entertaining.
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) ground sausage (mild or spicy)
3 cups stuffing mix (dry breadcrumbs or seasoned stuffing cubes)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 celery stalks, finely chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 large eggs, beaten
½ cup chicken broth (adjust for desired consistency)
2 tablespoons butter (optional, for sautéing onions and celery)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon dried sage or thyme (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Cook Vegetables:
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter (if using) and sauté the onion and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Prepare the Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, stuffing mix, shredded cheddar cheese, sautéed vegetables, garlic powder, sage or thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Add the beaten eggs and chicken broth to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated. If the mixture feels too dry, add more chicken broth, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it holds together when shaped.
Shape the Balls:
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1- to 1½-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage is fully cooked and the stuffing balls are golden brown. You can check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature of the sausage reaches 160°F (71°C).
Serve:
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a side dish, appetizer, or snack.
Conclusion:
These Savory Sausage Stuffing Balls are a crowd-pleasing recipe that combines the best parts of stuffing and sausage into convenient, handheld bites.
Whether served at a holiday dinner or as a party appetizer, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Pair them with gravy or cranberry sauce for an extra burst of flavor, and enjoy the compliments that follow!