Introduction to Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Why Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls are a Must-Try
When it comes to family gatherings, Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls hold a special place at the table. These delightful bites are not just a twist on traditional stuffing; they embody a heartwarming sense of nostalgia. With a golden, crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful center, they complement your holiday turkey or chicken beautifully.
Imagine the enticing aroma of buttery onions and crisp celery wafting through your kitchen—it's enough to make anyone hungry! What sets these stuffing balls apart is their versatility. Whether you’re prepping for Thanksgiving dinner or hosting a cozy winter get-together, they can be made a day in advance and popped in the oven just before serving. This means less stress and more time to enjoy the company of friends and family.
Curious about the history? Many families have signature dishes, and for my family, Grandma Dot's recipe has been cherished for generations. You can find inspiration on websites like The Spruce Eats for additional variations and tips to customize this delightful dish. So, grab your apron and let's bring a taste of tradition to your kitchen!
Ingredients for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
When it comes to comfort food, few things warm the heart and belly quite like Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls. Crafted with care, each ingredient plays a pivotal role in creating that unforgettable flavor.
Essential Ingredients
To bring Grandma Dot’s recipe to life, you’ll need:
- ¾ cup butter: Adds richness and flavor.
- ½ cup diced onion: Brings sweetness and depth.
- ½ cup diced celery: For that classic stuffing crunch.
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning: A blend that perfectly complements turkey.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Just the right kick.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Makes the stuffing moist.
- 2 large eggs: Helps bind everything together.
- 10 cups cubed whole wheat or white bread: The foundation of your stuffing balls.
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley: To brighten up the dish.
These ingredients combine to create a dish that’s both flavorful and nostalgic. Curious about bread options? Check out this guide on choosing the right bread for stuffing for even more insights!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Preparing Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls is a wonderful way to honor family traditions while creating a dish that everyone can enjoy. Not only are they a delightful complement to any holiday feast, but they also bring a cozy comfort that comes only from a family recipe. Let’s dive into this easy step-by-step guide to make your stuffing balls perfect!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s crucial to have all your ingredients ready. Gather the following:
- 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 everything prepped not only makes the process smoother but also adds to the excitement—let’s get cooking!
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet
Next, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). This step is vital as it ensures the stuffing balls cook evenly. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, greasing it lightly to prevent sticking. A tip: don’t skip this step! Greasing the foil will make cleanup a breeze later.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the diced onion and celery. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes until the veggies are softened and fragrant. Then, add the salt, poultry seasoning, and black pepper, stirring for another minute. This aromatic mixture is one of the secret keys to Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls—it adds so much flavor!
Create the Mixture
While your aromatics are sautéing, whisk together the chicken broth and eggs in a large bowl. Once combined, fold in the bread cubes and fresh parsley. When the onion and celery mix has cooled slightly, add this to the bread mixture and stir until well combined. This is your base, and it's essential that everything is evenly mixed for the best texture.
Form the Stuffing Balls
Now comes the fun part! Use your hands to shape the mixture into approximately 24 (2-inch) balls. Remember, your hands may get a little messy, but that just means you’re on the right track! Place the formed balls on the prepared baking sheet—spacing them out helps them crisp nicely.
Bake and Enjoy
Pop your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the stuffing balls turn golden and crispy on the outside. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be enough to make anyone's mouth water! Serve them warm and enjoy them with turkey or chicken ham, and of course, a scoop of cranberry sauce for that burst of flavor.
Cooking Tip
If you want, you can prepare these stuffing balls up to a day in advance. Just assemble and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. It’s a great way to save time when you’re hosting!
These delicious Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls are sure to become a staple in your home, bringing warmth and flavor to every meal. Happy cooking!
Variations on Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Adding Different Herbs or Spices
One of the beautiful things about Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls is how versatile they are! Feel free to swap out the herbs or add in your favorites. For a Mediterranean twist, try incorporating rosemary and thyme. To spice things up, toss in a hint of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. The right combination can transform these simple stuffing balls into a standout dish at your holiday table.
Incorporating Other Vegetables
Don't hesitate to play with the vegetable mix! While onion and celery are classic staples, think about adding sautéed mushrooms, grated carrots, or even roasted bell peppers. These not only enhance flavor but also boost nutrition. Mixing in some sweet corn can give a delightful sweetness to the savory profile of Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls. It's all about personalizing this recipe to suit your taste!
For additional inspiration and tips on enhancing stuffing recipes, check out The Spruce Eats. Happy cooking!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
When making Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls, a few tips can elevate your dish to a family favorite. First, using stale or lightly toasted bread cubes enhances flavor absorption, ensuring every bite is deliciously seasoned. Secondly, don’t rush the sautéing of your onion and celery; letting them soften enhances their sweetness.
Feel free to mix in some chopped nuts or dried fruits like cranberries for an extra layer of texture and taste. Additionally, if you’re prepping ahead, you can refrigerate unbaked stuffing balls for up to 24 hours—just remember to bring them to room temperature before baking. For more inspiration, check out this herb stuffing guide. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Perfect Pairings with Turkey and Cranberry Sauce
Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls are a delightful side that beautifully complements the richness of turkey and the tartness of cranberry sauce. Serve them alongside roasted turkey for that classic holiday plate, and add a dollop of cranberry sauce on the side for a burst of flavor. Don't forget to drizzle some homemade gravy for an extra touch of comfort. If you're interested in more creative combinations, consider pairing them with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
Creative Ways to Serve Leftovers
Leftover stuffing balls? No problem! Transform them into a delightful breakfast by crumbling them over scrambled eggs or mixing them into a frittata. You could even reshape them into patties and pan-fry for a crispy bite, perfect as a hearty afternoon snack or brunch option. Alternatively, chop up leftovers, toss with sautéed veggies, and serve them in a fresh wrap for a quick lunch. Discover more ingenious leftover ideas at Taste of Home. Enjoy the versatility of Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls, and relish each bite!
Time Breakdown for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Preparation Time
The prep time for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls takes just about 25 minutes. This includes chopping veggies and mixing everything together. Gather your ingredients and let the fun begin!
Cooking Time
Once you have your delicious stuffing balls shaped, they’ll bake in the oven for about 25 minutes. That’s the perfect time to tidy up your kitchen or set the table!
Total Time
From start to finish, you’re looking at a total of 50 minutes to bring this delightful dish to life. It’s an easy recipe that promises big flavors, making it a great option for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.
For more cooking tips and delicious recipes, check out Allrecipes.
Nutritional Facts for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
When preparing Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls, it’s essential to be mindful of their nutritional content. A serving provides:
Calories
With approximately 108 calories per stuffing ball, these delightful bites can fit into a well-balanced meal.
Protein
Each serving contains about 3 grams of protein, helping to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Sodium
Containing 289 mg of sodium, they bring a burst of flavor without overwhelming your daily sodium intake.
For more on balancing flavors and creating nutritious meals, consider checking out resources from the American Heart Association.
Whether you’re preparing for a holiday dinner or experimenting with new recipes, knowing the nutritional facts can help you enjoy Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls mindfully!
FAQs about Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Can I prepare these stuffing balls in advance?
Absolutely! One of the great things about Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls is how easy they are to prep ahead of time. You can assemble the balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before popping them into the oven to ensure even cooking.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain that delicious crispy texture. For longer storage, consider freezing them—just be sure to use freezer-safe containers.
Are there gluten-free options available?
Yes, you can easily transform Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls into a gluten-free delight! Substitute traditional bread with gluten-free bread or even cornbread. Ensure that other ingredients, like seasoning and broth, are also gluten-free. You’ll still enjoy the same comforting flavors without the gluten!
For more tips on gluten-free cooking, check out resources from the Celiac Disease Foundation.
Conclusion on Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Grandma Dot's stuffing balls are more than just a side dish; they're a cherished tradition that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Their crispy exterior and fluffy interior make them perfect alongside turkey and cranberry sauce. Preparing them in advance makes family meals effortless and delightful! Enjoy these savory bites with loved ones! For additional variations, check out Food Network's stuffing recipes for inspiration.
Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Equipment
- Large skillet
- baking sheet
- mixing bowl
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
- 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