Description

These Stuffing Balls combine smoky turkey bacon with wholesome, plant-based ingredients for a festive and delicious holiday side dish. Easy to prepare and perfect for make-ahead, they offer a satisfying texture, rich flavor, and versatility to complement a variety of main courses and holiday spreads.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

3 cups day-old bread cubes (use gluten-free bread if desired)

Aromatics & Protein

6 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped

Binding & Flavor

1/2 cup vegetable broth
1/4 cup vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1/4 cup egg substitute
1 tsp ground black pepper
1 tsp sea salt

Optional

1/4 cup pecan pieces

Instructions

Prepare the Bread Base: Cut day-old bread into small cubes and lightly toast them in the oven to firm up the texture, preventing them from becoming mushy when mixed.
Sauté the Aromatics and Bacon: In a pan, cook the chopped smoked turkey bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, sauté the finely chopped celery and onion until soft and fragrant, then combine with the bacon.
Mix the Binding Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg substitute, vegetable broth, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), and fresh herbs. Season with sea salt and ground black pepper.
Combine All Ingredients: Add the toasted bread cubes, cooked bacon, sautéed aromatics, and optional pecan pieces into the binding mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine.
Shape the Stuffing Balls: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into uniform balls about the size of a golf ball to ensure even cooking.
Bake Until Golden: Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown on the outside and moist inside.

Notes

Use day-old bread for better moisture absorption without sogginess.
Do not overmix ingredients to maintain a tender texture.
Fresh herbs brighten flavors and prevent dryness.
The mixture should hold together but not be overly wet or sticky.
Shape balls uniformly for consistent cooking and attractive presentation.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 3 stuffing balls
Calories: 150
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: stuffing balls, holiday side dish, smoked turkey bacon, plant-based, make-ahead, gluten-free