Description
Stuffing Balls are a flavorful and comforting holiday side made with smoked turkey bacon, creamy plant-based cheese, and fresh herbs. These bite-sized treats are easy to prepare, versatile, and perfect for family meals or festive gatherings. With a tender texture and savory taste, they offer a delightful twist on traditional stuffing that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup smoked turkey bacon, chopped
- 3/4 cup plant-based cheese, shredded or crumbled
- 4 cups day-old bread cubes (use gluten-free bread if needed)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Chop the onion, celery, smoked turkey bacon, and fresh herbs into fine pieces. Lightly toast the day-old bread cubes in the oven to create a crisp base, then combine all these ingredients thoroughly in a large mixing bowl.
- Add Moist Ingredients: Mix in the plant-based cheese, vegetable broth, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to ensure the bread cubes absorb the liquids without becoming mushy.
- Incorporate the Natural Gelling Agent: Gradually sprinkle the natural gelling agent into the mixture, mixing well to bind everything together and ensure the stuffing balls will hold their shape during baking.
- Form and Bake: Using clean hands, shape the mixture into evenly sized balls about the size of a golf ball. Place the balls on a greased baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and firm to the touch.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for better moisture absorption and to prevent sogginess.
- Do not overmix the ingredients to maintain a light texture and avoid dense balls.
- Test bake one ball first to adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Ensure all balls are uniform in size for even baking.
- Allow the stuffing balls to cool briefly before serving to help them firm up and enhance the flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffing balls
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
Keywords: Stuffing Balls, holiday sides, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, gluten-free appetizer, festive recipe
