Description
These Stuffing Balls combine smoky turkey bacon, fresh herbs, and plant-based flavors to create a crispy, savory appetizer perfect for any holiday celebration. Easy to prepare and customizable, they offer a warm and comforting twist on traditional stuffing in a bite-sized, crowd-pleasing form.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, finely chopped
- 4 cups day-old bread cubes
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 2 tablespoons plant-based (dairy) butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread and Vegetables: Cut day-old bread into small cubes and lightly toast them in the oven until golden and crisp. While cooling, sauté chopped onions and celery in plant-based (dairy) butter over medium heat until softened and fragrant.
- Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a separate pan, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crispy and aromatic. Once cooked, finely chop to evenly distribute through the stuffing.
- Combine Ingredients with Broth and Spices: In a large bowl, mix toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, chopped turkey bacon, fresh herbs, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), ground black pepper, and salt. Gradually add vegetable broth while gently stirring to moisten without sogginess. Sprinkle in the natural gelling agent and mix well to bind.
- Shape and Bake the Stuffing Balls: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Form the mixture into small, bite-sized balls using hands or a scoop, pressing gently to maintain shape. Place on a lightly greased baking tray and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for better liquid absorption and firmer texture.
- Add vegetable broth gradually to avoid soggy stuffing balls.
- Chill shaped balls in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before baking for better shape retention.
- Use a small cookie scoop for uniform sizing and even cooking.
- Fresh herbs add brightness and complexity; avoid dried herbs when possible.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 stuffing balls
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: stuffing balls, appetizer, holiday recipe, plant-based, turkey bacon, finger food, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
