Crispy Stuffing Balls with Gravy
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
In a mixing bowl, combine:
Stuffing
Egg
Cheese (optional)
Melted butter
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Pepper
Paprika
Mix well until the mixture holds together.
Scoop small portions and roll into golf-ball–sized balls.
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.
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
In a pan, melt butter.
Add flour and whisk for 1 minute to form a smooth roux.
Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking continuously.
Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire (optional).
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.
