Thanksgiving is almost here, and while the turkey takes center stage, let's be honest, the side dishes are often the real stars of the show! This year, ditch the ordinary and elevate your Thanksgiving feast with these incredibly flavorful Pepperidge Farm Stuffing Balls. They're surprisingly easy to make, bursting with the classic tastes of the holiday, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser – even for picky eaters. Perfect as a quick dinner idea or a festive addition to your holiday spread, this recipe offers a delicious and convenient twist on traditional stuffing.
Ingredients:
- 1 (10-ounce) package Pepperidge Farm Herb Seasoned Stuffing Mix
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred for a healthier option)
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended for richness, but skim works too)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped celery (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup chopped onion (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but adds a lovely sharpness)
- 1 teaspoon dried sage (optional, for extra herby flavor)
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the Pepperidge Farm stuffing mix, chicken broth, milk, egg, celery, onion, melted butter, cheese (if using), and sage (if using). Mix well until everything is thoroughly moistened and combined. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to allow the stuffing to fully absorb the liquids. This step ensures perfectly formed and moist stuffing balls.
Step 2: Shape the Balls
Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray. Using your hands (slightly wet to prevent sticking), roll the stuffing mixture into 1-inch to 1 1/2-inch balls. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the stuffing balls are golden brown and heated through. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time to prevent burning.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the stuffing balls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They are delicious as a side dish alongside roast turkey, ham, or other holiday favorites. They also make a great addition to soups or salads.
Cooking Tips for Perfectly Golden Stuffing Balls:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing can result in tough stuffing balls. Gently mix until just combined.
- Adjust the liquid: Depending on the stuffing mix and the humidity, you might need to add a tablespoon or two more of broth or milk to achieve the desired consistency.
- Evenly sized balls: Aim for consistently sized balls for even cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Leave enough space between the balls to allow for even browning.
Variations:
- Cranberry Stuffing Balls: Add 1/4 cup of dried cranberries to the stuffing mixture for a sweet and tart twist.
- Sausage Stuffing Balls: Incorporate 1/2 cup of cooked and crumbled sausage for a savory boost.
- Spicy Stuffing Balls: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 4-6 grams
- Fat: 8-10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy recipe is a fantastic way to bring a familiar, comforting flavor to your Thanksgiving table or enjoy a delicious and easy weeknight meal. The homemade touch elevates this simple dish, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!