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Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls: The Best Comfort Food Delight
Introduction to Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls
There’s a magical moment during the holiday season when the aroma of Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls wafts through the house, instantly transporting you to a time filled with warmth, laughter, and family togetherness. A staple at every family gathering, these delightful stuffing balls are more than just a dish; they represent the heart of our family traditions.
When I think of Grandma Dot, I can’t help but smile as I recall memories of helping her in the kitchen. It was a symphony of chopping celery, sautéing onions, and stirring in just the right balance of spices. The secret, of course, lay in her comforting mix of flavors and textures, which managed to capture the essence of home. Whether served alongside the turkey or enjoyed as a standalone treat, anyone who has tasted Grandma Dot’s stuffing balls knows they’re not just a side dish; they’re a cherished part of our dining experience.
What makes Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls a family favorite?
What truly sets Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls apart is the blend of familiar ingredients that effortlessly dance together to create an unforgettable taste. It’s about the love infused in every bite. Here’s what makes them so irresistible:
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Versatility: These stuffing balls are incredibly adaptable. You can serve them as a side dish or even enjoy them as an appetizer, inviting guests to experience this sumptuous offering any time of year.
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Texture: The combination of crusty bread and tender herbs creates a delightful contrast that’s sure to please any palate. Each bite is a reminder of Grandma’s loving touch.
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Food Memories: Every family has its food stories, and Grandma Dot’s stuffing balls are entwined with ours. They have sparked countless conversations and moments of joy around the dinner table over the years.
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Family Tradition: Making these stuffing balls together has become a beloved family ritual. It’s a moment to gather, chat, and carry on Grandma Dot’s legacy, ensuring her recipes live on.
As you prepare to make Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls, you’re not just following a recipe; you’re partaking in a history that binds family and friends together.
Key Ingredients for Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls
Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls are more than just a recipe; they’re a welcome hug for your taste buds during the holiday season. This beloved dish draws on comforting, familiar flavors that remind us of family gatherings and mouthwatering meals. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients that make this dish truly special.
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Bread: For a hearty texture, I always opt for stale bread. It absorbs the broth beautifully without becoming mushy, giving each stuffing ball structure and that satisfying chew we all crave.
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Herbs: A blend of fresh parsley, sage, and thyme ensures that every bite bursts with fragrant, earthy flavors. These herbs evoke memories of Grandma Dot chopping them in the kitchen, filling the air with their aromatic scent.
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Vegetables: Onions and celery are essential for that savory foundation; they add moisture and richness. Sautéing them in butter before mixing brings out their natural sweetness.
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Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth is key to infusing the stuffing balls with flavor. The richness of broth helps meld all the ingredients together, achieving that perfect moist consistency.
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Eggs: These act as a binding agent, holding everything together for a satisfying bite. Every time I crack an egg into the mixture, I feel like Grandma Dot is guiding me, ensuring that each ball holds its shape.
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Spices: A careful sprinkle of salt and pepper brings all the flavors to life, elevating them without overshadowing Grandma Dot’s traditional recipe.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a dish that will warm hearts and bellies alike. Enjoy crafting your own batch of Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls!
Why You’ll Love Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls
Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls are the perfect combination of comfort and nostalgia. Imagine the warmth of a family gathering, the aroma of herbs wafting through the air, and the sound of laughter around a table. These irresistible morsels are not just a side dish; they’re a heartfelt tribute to countless family meals shared over the years.
A Flavorful Twist
What sets Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls apart is their incredible blend of flavors. The use of fresh herbs elevates the traditional stuffing with a vibrant, aromatic touch that you won’t forget. Plus, the crispy exterior combined with the soft, savory filling creates a delightful contrast that’s just plain addictive.
Easy to Make and Fun to Share
Making these stuffing balls is not just a cooking experience; it’s a family event! Get together with friends or family and enjoy the process of mixing, shaping, and baking. It’s a chance to catch up, share stories, and create new memories while you whip up something delicious.
Versatile for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a casual weeknight meal, Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls fit right in. You can serve them alongside your turkey or have them as a tasty snack during game night. They’re easy to personalize too! Feel free to add in your favorite ingredients, from dried cranberries to chopped nuts.
Taking a bite of these delightful stuffing balls not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart. So gather your loved ones and enjoy the scrumptiousness together!
Tips for Making Perfect Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls
Creating Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls requires a blend of nostalgia and precision. These little flavor-packed spheres are a staple during the holidays at our family gatherings, and mastering them hinges on a few key tips.
Choose Your Bread Wisely
The type of bread you use can make all the difference. Stale bread is ideal for stuffing as it holds moisture without becoming mushy. Opt for a mix of white and whole grain for varied texture and flavor. If you’re starting with fresh bread, toast it lightly before using.
Flavor Layering is Key
Don’t hesitate to get adventurous with your seasoning! Fresh herbs like sage, thyme, and parsley add a fragrant lift. I often add a pinch of nutmeg for that warm, homey flavor. Every ingredient contributes to the symphony of taste, so consider incorporating onions, celery, or even nuts for crunch.
Properly Hydrate
For Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls to have that ideal consistency, moisture is crucial. Too dry and they’ll crumble; too wet and they’ll fall apart. Use broth gradually while mixing your ingredients until it reaches just the right hold.
Don’t Skimp on Chilling Time
Chilling the mixture for at least 30 minutes before forming the balls helps them maintain their shape during cooking. This little step can enhance your results significantly.
By following these tips, you’ll create perfectly fluffy Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls that will have your guests asking for seconds—and the recipe!
Time Details for Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls
Preparing Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls isn’t just about cooking; it’s about creating cherished memories that fill your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia.
Preparation time
The first step in our delicious journey takes about 20 minutes. This is when you’ll chop, mix, and get everything ready for a delightful oven experience.
Baking time
Once those lovely stuffing balls are formed, you’ll bake them for 30 minutes. This is where the magic happens as they puff up and turn golden brown.
Total time
All in all, you’re looking at about 50 minutes from start to finish. Trust me, every minute spent is worth it for those flavorful bites.
Nutritional Information for Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls
When you savor the delightful experience of Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls, it’s enticing to consider their nutritional profile. These little bites of joy not only warm the heart but also provide valuable nutrients.
Calories
Each serving of Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls offers approximately 120 calories, making them a satisfying yet light addition to your meal. Knowing this can help you enjoy them guilt-free!
Protein
With around 5 grams of protein per serving, these stuffing balls contribute to your daily protein needs. They’re a fabulous way to incorporate a little extra energy into your feast.
Sodium
While they’re packed with flavor, watch out for the sodium content, which is about 300 milligrams per serving. Keeping an eye on this can help maintain your overall health while you indulge in these delicious bites.
Frequently Asked Questions about Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls
Creating the perfect batch of Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls is a beloved tradition that many families cherish. However, questions often arise about the preparation and storage of these delightful treats. Let’s tackle some FAQs to ensure your stuffing balls are smooth sailing from kitchen to table.
Can I make these stuffing balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the best things about Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls is that they can be prepared in advance. You can mix the ingredients and form the balls a day or two before your big dinner. Just store them in the fridge, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, until you’re ready to bake them. This time-saving tip allows you to focus on other dishes on the day of your feast.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy your delicious stuffing balls later. Once they’ve cooled, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to save them for a longer period, consider freezing them. Wrap each stuffing ball in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat them, just thaw and reheat!
Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old?
While Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls traditionally call for day-old bread to achieve the best texture, you can certainly use fresh bread if that’s what you have on hand. Just allow the fresh bread to dry out a bit by cutting it into cubes and letting it sit out for a few hours, or you could toast it lightly. This will create a similar consistency and flavor in your stuffing balls. Enjoy the cooking process, and get ready for a family favorite!
Conclusion on Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls
In wrapping up the delightful journey of crafting Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls, it’s clear that these little morsels are more than just a recipe; they are a heartwarming tradition. Each bite carries the essence of family gatherings, laughter, and cherished memories. As these stuffing balls bake, they fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that invites loved ones to the table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations; whether adding your favorite herbs or a touch of spice, make them your own! Bringing Grandma Dot’s Stuffing Balls to your holiday feast will undoubtedly create delicious new memories for years to come.
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Savory Bread Balls
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious recipe for savory bread balls made with fresh vegetables and herbs.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 tablespoons butter
- 1 ½ cups chopped celery
- 1 ½ cups chopped onion
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 10 cups day-old bread, torn
- 1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Instructions
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped celery and onion, sauté until soft and fragrant (8–10 minutes).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine torn bread, poultry seasoning, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in sautéed vegetables and butter. Gently toss to coat the bread evenly.
- Add beaten eggs and slowly drizzle in broth, stirring until mixture is moist but not soggy.
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Roll mixture into balls about the size of a small apple.
- Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden and crisp on the outside.
- Serve warm or store in an airtight container.
Notes
- These bread balls can be made ahead of time and frozen.
- Add your favorite herbs for additional flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
