🧆 Classic Stuffing Balls with Gravy
Been making this dish for 40+ years! A true family favorite passed from generation to generation — warm, savory, and soul-satisfying. These stuffing balls are crispy on the outside, moist on the inside, and drenched in rich gravy. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or comforting Sunday dinners.
🧾 Ingredients
For the Stuffing Balls:
- 1 loaf (about 14 oz) day-old white or wheat bread, cubed
- 2–3 stalks celery, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup melted butter (1 stick)
- 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (as needed)
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped parsley or sage for freshness
For the Gravy:
- 2 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: splash of cream or a pinch of herbs
🍳 Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease.
- Make the stuffing mix:
In a large skillet, sauté onions and celery in butter until softened (5–7 minutes). In a large mixing bowl, combine bread cubes, sautéed veggies, seasoning, and parsley. - Add liquid:
Pour in beaten eggs and about 1 cup of broth. Mix gently. Add more broth as needed — the mixture should hold together when squeezed but not be soggy. - Form balls:
Shape the mixture into golf ball–sized portions and place on the baking sheet. - Bake:
Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown. For crispier outsides, turn halfway through or broil for 2–3 minutes at the end. - Make the gravy:
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Simmer until thickened, about 5–7 minutes. Season to taste. - Serve:
Spoon warm gravy generously over the stuffing balls and serve hot!
🍽️ Servings
Makes: ~16 stuffing balls
Serves: 6–8 people as a side dish
💡 Tips & Notes
- Day-old bread works best! Fresh bread can be toasted if needed.
- Add-ins: Chopped apples, sausage crumbles, or cranberries make great flavor variations.
- Make it vegetarian by using veggie broth and omitting sausage.
- Easily freeze unbaked balls for up to 1 month. Thaw and bake as directed.
🧮 Nutritional Info (per 2 balls with gravy, approx.)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 11g
- Carbs: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 330mg
💪 Benefits
- Family tradition food — comforting and emotionally nourishing.
- Great way to use leftover bread and pantry staples.
- Easy to prep ahead for busy nights or gatherings.
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Mix and shape them a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate until baking.
Q: Can I use boxed stuffing mix?
A: Yes — it’s a time-saver. Just reduce added salt since boxed mixes are seasoned.
Q: Can these be reheated?
A: Yes. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes or in an air fryer. Add a bit of broth to keep them moist if microwaving.