Dressing Balls
Flavorful dressing balls with savory herbs, tender bread cubes, and a crispy exterior, perfect as a hearty appetizer or side dish for holiday gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute celery and onions in margarine. Pour over dried bread cubes.
- Add eggs, then pour in hot broth.
- Sprinkle with poultry seasoning and salt, then stir well.
- When slightly cooled enough to handle, form into approximately 20 balls (size of small orange) or use a 1/2-cup ice cream dipper.
- Bake at 375°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using butter in place of margarine. If you want a lighter version, substitute half of the bread cubes with cooked quinoa or brown rice. For a herbaceous twist, try adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Ensure the broth is hot to help the bread absorb moisture and achieve a perfect texture. This recipe is a wonderful side for dishes like Missouri Fried Chicken.
Serving Suggestions
These dressing balls make a delightful side dish for holiday meals or family gatherings. Serve them alongside roasted meats or a fresh green salad for balance. They pair beautifully with comforting dishes like Paula'S Squash Casserole or can be enjoyed on their own as a hearty snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dressing balls on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dressing Balls contains roughly 251 calories, with 4g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these dressing balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture in advance and shape the balls, then refrigerate them until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating even tastier dressing balls when cooked.
Can I freeze the dressing balls?
Yes, you can freeze the formed dressing balls before baking. Freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to use, bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of poultry seasoning?
If you don't have poultry seasoning, a mix of dried thyme, sage, and rosemary can work as a substitute. You can also use Italian seasoning or a blend of your favorite herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).