Air fryer stuffing balls are a delicious and easy-to-make twist on traditional stuffing. They are perfect as a side dish or appetizer for any holiday meal or gathering. Here’s a simple recipe to make them:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups day-old bread cubes (you can use white, whole wheat, or a mix)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg (optional, to bind the mixture)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bread:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, add the day-old bread cubes. If you don’t have day-old bread, you can toast fresh bread lightly before cubing it.
- Make the Stuffing Mixture:
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the cooked onions and garlic to the bowl with the bread cubes. Then, add sage, thyme, salt, pepper, and the broth. Mix everything together until the bread absorbs the liquid. If the mixture seems too dry, add a bit more broth.
- (Optional) Add the egg and shredded cheese, mixing well to incorporate.
- Form the Stuffing Balls:
- Scoop a small amount of the stuffing mixture and roll it into balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter. You should be able to make around 12-15 stuffing balls, depending on the size.
- Air Fry the Stuffing Balls:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the stuffing balls in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
- Serve:
- Once done, remove the stuffing balls from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your crispy and flavorful air fryer stuffing balls! They pair well with turkey, chicken, or as a savory snack on their own.