Introduction to Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Why Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls are a Family Favorite
When it comes to holiday gatherings, few dishes evoke as much warmth and nostalgia as Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls. These delightful morsels have been a cherished family tradition for generations, bringing together loved ones around the dinner table. Their unique shape offers a delightful twist to traditional stuffing, showcasing a perfectly golden and crispy exterior while remaining wonderfully soft and flavorful on the inside.
What sets Grandma Dot's creation apart? It’s all about the carefully selected ingredients and a pinch of love. The combination of savory onion, crunchy celery, and aromatic poultry seasoning melds beautifully with the substantial texture of whole wheat or white bread. Just imagine those little bites paired with succulent turkey or a zesty cranberry sauce—talk about comfort food!
These stuffing balls not only taste incredible; they can also be prepped a day ahead and conveniently baked before serving. Perfect for busy holiday cooking, this makes them a practical choice for anyone looking to impress without the last-minute frenzy. Want to learn more about enhancing your holiday feasts? Check out resources on food pairings and cooking tips.
Ingredients for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Creating Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls is a delightful experience that brings the warmth of family gatherings right to your kitchen. Here’s a closer look at the ingredients that make these stuffing balls so irresistible:
- ¾ cup butter: The foundation for flavor and richness in each bite.
- ½ cup diced onion: Adds a sweet yet savory taste that enhances the stuffing.
- ½ cup diced celery: Contributes a nice crunch and freshness.
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt: Essential for balancing the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning: A classic mix that ties all the ingredients together.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: For just the right kick of spice.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Provides moisture and depth to each stuffing ball.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder to keep everything together.
- 10 cups cubed whole wheat or white bread: The star ingredient that gives structure.
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley: For a pop of color and freshness.
By gathering these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’ll be on your way to mastering Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls. For some kitchen inspiration, check out additional tips on Food Network or Bon Appétit.
Remember, the joy of cooking comes not just from the ingredients themselves, but also from the memories they carry!
Preparing Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Creating Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls can transform your holiday meal into a cherished family experience. These delightful little bites complement everything from turkey to cranberry sauce, and best of all, they can be prepared ahead of time. Let’s dive into the steps you need to follow for success!
Gather the Ingredients
Before you can embark on this culinary adventure, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. The foundation of these stuffing balls includes:
- 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
Prepping these delicious stuffing balls will take about 25 minutes, with an additional 25 minutes in the oven. Make sure you have good-quality bread cubes; using stale or lightly toasted ones can enhance the texture and absorb flavors effectively.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking for about five minutes until they soften. The aroma will be comforting and familiar—just like Grandma Dot! Stir in the salt, poultry seasoning, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. This mixture is your flavor base. According to Healthline, incorporating sautéed vegetables adds not only flavor but also nutritional benefits.
Mix the Broth and Eggs
While the vegetable mixture cools off slightly, you can multitask! In a large bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and eggs. This combination binds the ingredients together, so be sure to mix well. Then, carefully fold in the cubed bread and chopped parsley, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. This step is crucial for a unified texture throughout your Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls.
Combine and Form the Balls
Now that your mixtures are ready, add the sautéed vegetables to the bread mixture. Use your hands to mix until everything is well combined. The ratio of ingredients is vital here; if the mixture seems too dry, feel free to add a splash more chicken broth. Once mixed, form the mixture into 24 two-inch balls and arrange them on a greased baking sheet. Pro tip: Wet your hands slightly to make shaping easier!
Baking the Stuffing Balls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow the stuffing balls to bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown. The crispy exterior combined with the soft stuffing inside is nothing short of heavenly. These little gems can be enjoyed warm and are perfect for pairing with your favorite roast.
As you experience the joy of preparing Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls, don’t forget to keep some for future cravings—they’re as delightful reheated as they are fresh!
Variations on Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
If you're eager to switch things up, here are a couple of delightful variations on Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls that will impress at any gathering!
Herb and Garlic Stuffing Balls
For a flavor boost, mix in minced garlic and a medley of your favorite herbs—think rosemary, thyme, and sage. This herb-infused approach adds a wonderful aroma and earthy taste that complements your holiday roast beautifully. These stuffed beauties pair excellently with oven-roasted turkey and a side of cranberry sauce.
Stuffing Balls with Dried Cranberries
Craving a touch of sweetness? Fold in dried cranberries to the mix before shaping the balls. The tart bites of cranberry bring a delightful contrast to the savory stuffing, making each bite a mini explosion of flavor. These sweet-savory balls are not only delicious alongside turkey; they also make a fantastic appetizer when served with a rich dip.
Experiment with these variations to create your perfect version of Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls. Would your guests favor the savory herb twist or the sweet cranberry delight?
Cooking Tips and Notes for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Making Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls is a delightful experience! Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time:
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Stale Bread is Key: Use stale or lightly toasted bread cubes for the best absorption of flavors. Fresh bread can make the stuffing balls too soggy.
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Prep Ahead: Don’t hesitate to prepare the stuffing balls a day in advance. Just refrigerate them unbaked and bring them to room temperature before popping them in the oven.
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Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices, such as sage or thyme, to suit your taste. Chopped nuts or dried cranberries can also add a delightful twist!
Remember, the joy of cooking lies in experimenting, so have fun with it! For more cooking tips, check out resources from America’s Test Kitchen or visit Serious Eats.
Serving Suggestions for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Are you ready to elevate your meal with Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls? These delightful bites can be paired with a variety of dishes to create a deliciously memorable experience.
Perfect Pairings
- Turkey or Chicken: Serve them alongside a beautifully roasted turkey or chicken for a traditional twist.
- Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of homemade cranberry sauce adds a refreshing zing that complements the stuffing’s rich flavors.
- Salads: Pair with a simple green salad for a fresh contrast.
- Gravy: Drizzling turkey or chicken gravy over the stuffing balls makes for a comforting, savory dish.
Meal Prep Tips
Prepping ahead? Don’t hesitate to make these stuffing balls a day in advance. Just refrigerate them before baking to save time on busy days. For more ideas, check out Food Network’s Serving Suggestions. Enjoy your creation!
Time Breakdown for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Preparation Time
Getting started with Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls is a breeze! You'll need about 25 minutes to gather ingredients, chop your veggies, and mix everything together.
Cooking Time
Once you’ve shaped the stuffing balls, they’ll bake to perfection in about 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they turn golden and crisp!
Total Time
In just 50 minutes, you’ll be ready to serve these delicious stuffing balls! Perfect for when you need a quick, crowd-pleasing side. If you’re looking to save time on the big day, consider prepping them a day ahead and simply baking when needed!
For more tips on making your holiday cooking easier, check out The Spruce Eats.
Nutritional Facts for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
When it comes to enjoying Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls, it's only natural to be curious about their nutritional content. Here’s a quick overview to help you make a well-informed decision about this delicious side dish:
Calories
Each serving of Grandma Dot's stuffing balls contains approximately 108 calories. This makes them a flavorful addition to any meal without overwhelming your daily calorie intake.
Protein
You'll get about 3 grams of protein per serving from these stuffing balls. While not a hefty amount, it contributes to your overall daily protein needs, especially when enjoyed alongside your favorite protein-rich dishes.
Sodium
With 289 mg of sodium in each serving, these stuffing balls have a moderate sodium level. If you're watching your sodium intake, it's good to pair them with other lower-sodium options, like fresh veggies or lean meats.
Feel free to explore more about healthy eating on websites like the American Heart Association or Nutrition.gov for balanced meal ideas!
FAQ about Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Can I prepare the stuffing balls in advance?
Absolutely! One of the best features of Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls is their flexibility. You can assemble them a day ahead, which is perfect for easing your holiday cooking stress. Just keep them in the refrigerator, and make sure to bring them to room temperature before baking to ensure an even cook.
What kind of bread works best for these stuffing balls?
For the ideal texture and flavor, stale or lightly toasted bread works wonders. Whole wheat or white bread are both great options because they absorb the delightful broth and flavors like a charm. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider mixing in a few different types of bread for added complexity!
Are there gluten-free options for Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls?
Definitely! Simply substitute the regular bread with gluten-free bread. There are many delicious varieties available that can be used without compromising on flavor or texture. Just make sure to check that your other ingredients, like chicken broth and seasonings, are also gluten-free.
For a deeper dive into gluten-free cooking, you might find this resource from the Gluten Intolerance Group helpful.
Conclusion on Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls are not just a recipe; they’re a cherished memory and a delicious way to elevate your holiday meals. With their satisfying texture and rich flavors, these stuffing balls are sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy making them and creating beautiful memories this season!
For more impressive side dishes, check out this article on Thanksgiving side recipes.
Grandma Dot's Stuffing Balls
Equipment
- large skillet
- baking sheet
- mixing bowl
- aluminum foil
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
Preparation
- 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!
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