Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls

Name: Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups bread crumbs; 1/2 cup cooked cranberries (fresh or dried); 1/4 cup sage (fresh or dried); 1 onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 cup vegetable broth; 1/4 cup butter (melted); Salt and pepper (to taste)

December 23, 2025 by Mae

A plate of delicious Thanksgiving stuffing balls, golden brown and steaming.

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Indulge in Flavor: Delightful Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, the time draws near for that most cherished of celebrations: Thanksgiving. Picture this: a table adorned with rich hues of autumn, laughter mingling with the clinking of cutlery, and the aroma of warm spices and roasted meats wafting through the air. Central to this picturesque scene are delightful Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls—tiny orbs of comfort that carry the essence of this festive season in every bite. They are perfect for sharing with loved ones, making them a delightful addition to your holiday spread or any cozy weeknight dinner.

Nestled next to a beautifully cooked turkey or served as a warm appetizer, Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls evoke the familiar warmth of cherished family traditions. Each bite offers a tender crunch encased in a harmonious blend of savory herbs, fragrant garlic, and a hint of sweetness from cranberries. It’s no wonder these little delights become the star of the show, capturing hearts and appetites alike. So gather your loved ones around the kitchen and let the scents of seasoning, baking bread, and bubbling butter draw everyone closer, creating new memories and rekindling old ones around your table this holiday season.

What You’ll Need

Before diving into the culinary adventure of crafting these mouthwatering Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls, let’s gather the essentials. Preparing this dish is simple and rewarding, with ingredients that transform into a festive delight. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients

2 cups bread crumbs
1/2 cup cooked cranberries (fresh or dried)
1/4 cup sage (fresh or dried)
1 onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1/4 cup butter (melted)
Salt and pepper (to taste)

Tools

To streamline your cooking experience, gather the following kitchen tools and equipment:

Large mixing bowl
Whisk
Baking sheet
Parchment paper (for easy cleanup)
Skillet for sautéing onions and garlic (if desired)
Measuring cups and spoons
Mixing spoon or spatula

How to Make It

Creating the perfect Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls is a delightful journey of aromas and textures that beckons you into the kitchen. With just a few steps, you will soon be relishing the joys of this festive dish.

Prep the Base

Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, prepare your baking sheet by greasing it gently or lining it with parchment paper for an effortless cleanup after baking. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread crumbs, cooked cranberries, fragrant sage, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic. As you pour in each ingredient, take a moment to appreciate the vibrant colors—the rich, earthy tones of the breadcrumbs, the glistening crimson of the cranberries, and the fresh green burst of sage. Mix these together lovingly, ensuring each breadcrumb is coated with the sweet and savory lure of the herbs and fruits.

Build the Flavor

In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable broth and melted butter until well combined. The golden liquid glistens as you blend it, with a warm aroma rising to meet your senses. Pour this buttery mixture over your breadcrumb concoction, feeling the warmth radiate as it mingles with the dry ingredients. Use a sturdy spatula or your hands to gently fold everything together until well combined and moist. The textures should be cohesive yet crumbly enough to form into little balls; add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning until the flavors burst forth like the joy of family gatherings.

Form the Balls

Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to shape these scrumptious Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls. With clean hands, take a generous handful of the mixture and roll it gently into 1 to 1.5-inch balls, feeling the coolness of the ingredients and the warmth of the buttery broth melding together in your palms. As you arrange the formed balls on the prepared baking sheet, be sure to leave enough space between each one, allowing them to breathe and brown beautifully in the oven. The anticipation builds as you place them in the oven!

Bake to Perfection

Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and listen closely—the gentle sizzle of the stuffing balls begins to play a sweet symphony. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even browning. Soon, the enticing aroma of toasting bread, savory herbs, and sweet cranberries wafts through your home, each fragrant note inviting you closer. When they’re ready, the stuffing balls should be golden brown, crisp on the outside, and soft on the inside, promising delightful flavor in every morsel.

Finish & Serve

Once baked, allow your Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls to cool slightly for about five minutes—this moment is just enough to ease your anticipation. As you gather around the table, serve these treasures warm, perhaps with a drizzle of gravy, or simply enjoy them as they are. Each bite reveals the warmth of the stuffing, the sweetness of cranberries, and the herbal notes of sage, making for a truly comforting dish that captures the essence of the season.

Creative Twists

While the classic Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls are delightful on their own, consider adding your personal touch with these fun variations:

Seasonal Twists: For a summer barbecue, mix in fresh basil and diced tomatoes. In spring, swap cranberries for chopped asparagus and add a sprinkle of lemon zest for a refreshing twist.
Flavor Upgrades: Elevate your stuffing balls with spices like thyme, rosemary, or even a dash of cayenne for a surprising kick! You could also incorporate different cheeses, such as feta or cheddar, for added richness.
Protein Swaps: For a heartier option, add diced cooked chicken or turkey. For a vegetarian alternative, consider black beans or sautéed mushrooms to enhance the depth of flavors.
Vegetable Add-Ins: Incorporate finely chopped celery and carrots for an extra crunch, or try spinach and feta for a Mediterranean flare.
Grain Alternatives: Substitute half of the bread crumbs with quinoa or cooked rice for a different texture and nutritional boost, making for a gluten-free option.

Final Inspiration

As Thanksgiving approaches and your table fills with laughter and love, let these Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls be a delicious centerpiece of your gathering. Whether you’re sharing them with family, friends, or simply savoring them solo, they carry a warmth that transcends their humble ingredients.

This beloved recipe invites you to create an experience filled with comfort, nostalgia, and flavors that bind us all together. So as you gather around the table this season, remember to cherish not just the food but the love and traditions imparted through generations. Try your hand at these delightful Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls, and savor the joy they bring—a savory reminder of home, family, and festive gatherings that are sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions.