Crispy Stuffing Balls with Gravy

Crispy Stuffing Balls with Gravy

Table of Contents

Soft on the inside, crispy on the outside — the perfect comfort snack or appetizer!

Ingredients

For the Stuffing Balls

  • 4 cups leftover stuffing
    (or boxed stuffing prepared according to package)

  • 1 egg (for binding)

  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar (optional — makes centers soft and melty)

  • 2 tbsp melted butter

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • Oil spray or 2 tbsp oil (for frying/air frying)

For the Quick Gravy

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

  • 1½ cups chicken broth

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional — adds rich depth)

Instructions

1. Make the Stuffing Balls

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine:

    • Stuffing

    • Egg

    • Cheese (optional)

    • Melted butter

    • Garlic powder

    • Onion powder

    • Pepper

    • Paprika

  2. Mix well until the mixture holds together.

  3. Scoop small portions and roll into golf-ball–sized balls.

  4. Place on a tray and chill 10–15 minutes.
    (This helps them keep their shape.)

2. Cook the Stuffing Balls

Air Fryer Method (Crispiest)

  • Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

  • Lightly spray stuffing balls with oil.

  • Air fry 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway, until crisp and golden.

See also  Mediterranean Kung Pao Chicken

Oven Method

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

  • Place balls on parchment paper.

  • Bake 15–18 minutes, or until browned.

Pan-Fry Method

  • Heat 2 tbsp oil in a pan.

  • Fry over medium heat, turning gently, until crispy on all sides.

3. Make the Gravy

  1. In a pan, melt butter.

  2. Add flour and whisk for 1 minute to form a smooth roux.

  3. Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking continuously.

  4. Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire (optional).

  5. Cook until thick, smooth, and silky.

4. Serve

  • Arrange crispy stuffing balls on a platter.

  • Pour warm gravy over them or serve the gravy on the side for dipping.

  • Garnish with parsley if desired.

Q & A

Q1: My stuffing balls fall apart. What should I do?

Add another egg or 2–3 tbsp broth/water. Chilling before cooking is very important.

Q2: Can I make these ahead?

Yes!

  • Refrigerate shaped balls for 24 hours, or

  • Freeze up to 1 month.

Q3: Can I skip the cheese?

Yes — it’s optional. The balls will still hold and crisp well.

Q4: What stuffing works best?

Any stuffing:
✔ Bread stuffing
✔ Herb stuffing
✔ Sausage stuffing
✔ Boxed/stovetop stuffing

All work perfectly.

Q5: Can I use packet gravy?

Yes! Prepare any store-bought gravy packet for a quick shortcut.