Festive Cheese Stuffing Bites - Day 16

The festive season brings an array of delightful dishes, and one standout is the irresistible Cheesy Stuffing Ball Bites. These savoury morsels are perfect for gatherings, combining the warmth of traditional stuffing with a gooey cheese centre. Easy to make and sure to impress, they add a bit of flair to any holiday menu. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this guide will walk you through crafting the perfect batch. Enjoy these bites as a scrumptious addition to your festive spread, enhancing the holiday spirit.

To prepare these mouth-watering bites, gather the following:

Ingredients

Make Your Own Stuffing

• 200g stale bread, cut into small cubes
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 200ml vegetable stock
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Or if short on time simply use a packet mix like myself

• Packet stuffing mix
• Sausage meat
• 100g of your favourite cheese, cut into small cubes (such as Cheddar or mozzarella)

For variety, consider adding cranberries for a hint of sweetness or using gluten-free bread for those with dietary needs. For a vegan version, swap the egg with a flaxseed alternative and use vegan cheese.

Creating your own stuffing

1. Begin by heating olive oil in a pan over medium heat, then add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent.
2. In a large bowl, combine the stale bread cubes with the sautéed onion and garlic.
3. Gradually pour in the vegetable stock, allowing the bread to absorb the liquid.
4. Stir in the beaten egg, dried sage, thyme, salt, and pepper, mixing until everything is well combined.
5. The mixture should be moist but not overly wet, holding together easily when pressed.

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Once you have your stuffing ready and made, it's time to mix in the sausage meat until well combine.
3. Take a small handful of the mixture and gently roll it between your palms to form a ball approximately the size of a golf ball. Using a cookie scoop can help maintain uniformity in size. Ensure the balls are compact to avoid them falling apart during cooking. If the mixture feels too crumbly, add a bit more stock to help bind it.

4. To add the cheesy centre, create a small indentation in each ball using your finger. Place a cube of cheese into the indentation and carefully mould the stuffing around it, ensuring the cheese is entirely enclosed. This step is vital to prevent any cheese from escaping during cooking.

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to achieve your desired flavour and texture—Cheddar offers a sharp tang, while mozzarella gives a creamy, gooey centre. Make sure each ball is tightly packed to keep its shape during the baking process.

5. Arrange the stuffed balls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are thoroughly cooked. To ensure they cook evenly, turn them halfway through the baking time. Alternatively, you can shallow fry the balls in a pan with a little oil, turning frequently to achieve an even golden crust.

Cheesy Stuffing Ball Bites pair wonderfully with a variety of dips and accompaniments, making them a versatile addition to any festive spread. For an extra touch of elegance, arrange the bites on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or rosemary.

These bites are incredibly adaptable when it comes to pairing with sauces. Consider serving them alongside cranberry sauce for a sweet and tangy contrast, or opt for a zesty garlic aioli that brings a burst of flavour. For those who prefer something creamier, a mustard dip can provide a nice balance to the savoury bites.

If you're looking to create a well-rounded meal, these bites can also be served with a selection of sides. A fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing element to the dish. Alternatively, roasted vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts can complement the richness of the cheese and stuffing.

For a more substantial offering, you can include these bites as part of a larger holiday feast. They make a great accompaniment to traditional mains like roast turkey or ham, adding a delightful twist to the usual sides.

To enhance the overall presentation, you might want to serve the bites on a wooden board or festive tray. Add some colourful garnishes like pomegranate seeds or edible flowers for a visually appealing display that will catch the eye of your guests.

Feel free to get creative with your serving ideas, as these Cheesy Stuffing Ball Bites are versatile enough to fit into any part of your festive meal.

Storing and Reheating Instructions

Once your festive feast has concluded, any remaining Cheesy Stuffing Ball Bites can be preserved for future enjoyment. Simply place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge where they will remain fresh for up to three days.

When the craving for these delightful bites strikes again, the oven is your best friend for reheating. Preheat it to 180°C (350°F) and arrange the balls on a baking tray. Heat them for 10-12 minutes, or until they are thoroughly warmed through. This method helps maintain their crisp exterior and gooey centre.

If you’re pressed for time, you can use a microwave. Place the balls on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in short bursts, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. However, be aware that microwaving may slightly alter the texture, making the exterior less crisp.

To keep the bites as close to their original state as possible, avoid reheating them multiple times. Reheating more than once can compromise their texture and flavour, so it’s best to warm only what you plan to eat immediately.

For added convenience, you can also freeze the stuffed balls before cooking. Lay them out on a baking tray and place them in the freezer until they are firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, simply bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

These simple steps ensure that your Cheesy Stuffing Ball Bites remain as delicious and enjoyable as when they were first made.

If you make this dish, why not send me a picture on Instagram using the #acountrygirlskitchen so I can go over and show it some love.

I hope you all have a wonderful day.

*Chefs Kiss*