What type of bread works best?

Day-old white or whole wheat bread with crusts removed works well to absorb flavors without becoming mushy.

Can I make these stuffing balls vegan?

Yes, substitute melted butter with olive oil or vegan margarine for a plant-based version.

Fresh parsley, sage, and thyme create a savory and aromatic blend that complements festive dishes.

Adding dried cranberries or apricots and chopped walnuts or pecans introduces sweetness and crunch, enhancing texture and taste.

Yes, they can be shaped ahead of time and baked or reheated when needed for convenience.

The combination of soaked bread and melted butter naturally binds the mixture, but adding a beaten egg can provide extra hold if desired.

Savory, golden stuffing balls bursting with herbs and festive flavors—perfect for a speedy holiday side or appetizer.

I first served these stuffing balls at a family Christmas dinner and everyone loved how flavorful and easy they were to make.

Bread & Fillings: 200 g day-old white or whole wheat bread, crusts removed and cubed, 1 small onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced
Dairy: 75 g unsalted butter melted
Liquids: 100 ml vegetable stock (hot)
Herbs & Seasoning: 2 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped, 1 tbsp fresh sage finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried), 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper
Optional Add-ins: 50 g dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots, 50 g chopped walnuts or pecans

Step 1:: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) Line a baking tray with parchment paper
Step 2:: Place the bread cubes in a large bowl Pour the hot vegetable stock evenly over the bread and let soak for 2–3 minutes until softened
Step 3:: Add the onion, garlic, melted butter, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper If using, mix in dried fruit and nuts
Step 4:: Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture holds together when squeezed
Step 5:: Using damp hands, shape the mixture into 12 even balls and place them on the prepared tray
Step 6:: Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden and crisp on the outside
Step 7:: Serve warm as a festive side or appetizer

We treasure making these stuffing balls together as a family every Christmas, filling the house with warm holiday scents and laughter.

Large mixing bowl, baking tray, parchment paper, sharp knife, chopping board

Contains gluten from bread and dairy from butter Nuts optional Egg optional check carefully for allergies

Per serving (2 balls): 145 calories, 7 g total fat, 18 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein

These stuffing balls make a festive addition to any holiday meal and can be prepared ahead to save time.

→ What type of bread works best?: Day-old white or whole wheat bread with crusts removed works well to absorb flavors without becoming mushy.
→ Can I make these stuffing balls vegan?: Yes, substitute melted butter with olive oil or vegan margarine for a plant-based version.
→ What herbs are used to enhance flavor?: Fresh parsley, sage, and thyme create a savory and aromatic blend that complements festive dishes.
→ How do dried fruits and nuts affect the dish?: Adding dried cranberries or apricots and chopped walnuts or pecans introduces sweetness and crunch, enhancing texture and taste.
→ Can these be prepared in advance?: Yes, they can be shaped ahead of time and baked or reheated when needed for convenience.
→ What binding agents keep the balls together?: The combination of soaked bread and melted butter naturally binds the mixture, but adding a beaten egg can provide extra hold if desired.