Filling Balls
Filling Balls are savory, comforting bites made with bread cubes, vegetables, and mashed potatoes, seasoned with herbs and spices. They are perfect as a hearty side dish or appetizer, offering warm, flavorful bites with a tender interior and crispy exterior, suitable for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Form the mixture into balls and place them in a well-greased dish.
- Bake at 350°F until golden and heated through, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade bread cubes instead of store-bought, and sauté the onion and celery in a bit of the melted butter before mixing them in. You can substitute the mashed potatoes with sweet potatoes for a unique twist, or use vegetable stock instead of milk for a dairy-free option. Adding herbs like thyme or sage can enhance the savory notes of these filling balls.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these filling balls as a hearty side dish alongside roasted meats or as a vegetarian option with a rich gravy. They pair beautifully with Never Fail Potato Salad for a complete meal. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs for extra color and flavor. For a lighter option, serve them with a fresh salad on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the filling balls on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain their texture and flavor. You can also microwave them, but be cautious to avoid drying them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Filling Balls contains roughly 919 calories, with 20g protein, 177g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (117% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (82% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 866mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
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 use leftover bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover bread is perfect for this recipe. Just ensure the bread is dried out enough to hold its shape when mixed with the other ingredients. If it's too fresh, you may want to toast it lightly or leave it out overnight to dry.
Can I freeze these filling balls?
Yes, you can freeze the filling balls before or after baking. If freezing before baking, form the balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with filling balls?
Filling balls are versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes. They go well with roasted vegetables, gravy, or a light salad. For a comforting meal, pair them with a side of mashed potatoes and a hearty protein like roasted chicken.
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).