STUFFING BALLS WITH SAUSAGE
Sausage Stuffing Balls offer a delightful twist on traditional holiday fare, combining the savory flavors of sausage and bacon with the comforting taste of stuffing, all held together with melted cheese. This easy-to-make appetizer is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a convenient option for holiday gatherings, parties, or even as a tasty snack. The versatility of using either store-bought or homemade stuffing allows for customization according to personal preference or dietary needs.
Why You’ll Love Sausage Stuffing Balls:
- Flavorful and Festive: Packed with the savory goodness of sausage and bacon, and the heartiness of stuffing, these balls are a hit at any festive occasion.
- Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this appetizer in no time.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Ideal for planning ahead, these stuffing balls can be prepared in advance and frozen until needed, making your holiday cooking a breeze.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these stuffing balls as a standalone appetizer with cranberry sauce or gravy for dipping.
- Incorporate them into a holiday buffet alongside other favorites like mini quiches, cheese platters, and vegetable trays.
- For a more casual setting, pair them with dips such as ranch dressing or a spicy mustard sauce.
Customization Ideas:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage and bacon with a vegetarian alternative or simply increase the amount of stuffing and cheese.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for varied flavors.
- Additional Ingredients: Feel free to add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and taste.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Freezing: Perfect for freezing, place them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen by baking at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through.
The versatility and ease of preparation make Sausage Stuffing Balls a must-try recipe for anyone looking to add a unique and tasty dish to their holiday menu. Whether you’re hosting a grand celebration or a cozy family gathering, these stuffing balls are sure to be a hit, bringing together all the flavors of the season in one perfect bite.
STUFFING BALLS WITH SAUSAGE
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper
- Large Bowl
Ingredients
For the Protein:
- 1 pound Ground breakfast sausage
- 8 slices Bacon cooked and diced
For the Stuffing Base:
- 6 ounces Boxed stuffing mix this equals approximately 3 cups of homemade stuffing
For the Cheese:
- 3 cups Cheddar cheese shredded
Instructions
Preheating and Preparing Baking Sheet:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
Preparing Stuffing Mixture:
- Prepare boxed stuffing according to package instructions. If using homemade stuffing, skip to the next step.
- In a large bowl, combine sausage, cooked bacon, cooked stuffing, and cheese, mixing until thoroughly combined.
Forming Sausage Balls:
- Roll the mixture into balls, approximately 1 heaping tablespoon each. Ensure the balls are packed tightly so they hold together as they bake.
Baking:
- Place the sausage balls on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until cooked through.
