Looking for a crowd-pleasing holiday appetizer or an easy twist on a classic Thanksgiving side dish? These Italian Sausage Stuffing Balls made with Bianco & Sons sausage are packed with flavor, crisp on the outside, and tender on the inside. Perfect for serving alongside turkey, gravy, and cranberry sauce — or as bite-sized starters at your next holiday gathering.
Serves 6–8 | Makes about 18–20 stuffing balls
Ingredients
- 1 lb Bianco & Sons Italian sausage (Sweet or Hot)
- 8 cups toasted bread cubes (white, Italian, or sourdough)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth (plus more if needed)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or melted butter, for brushing
Optional Add-In:
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness
Directions
1. Prep the Bread
Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet. Toast at 300°F for 10–15 minutes until lightly dried out.
2. Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, cook Bianco Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Break into crumbles, then remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the Stuffing Base
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook 5–6 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Combine
In a large bowl, mix toasted bread cubes, sausage, cooked vegetables, herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir in eggs and gradually add chicken broth until mixture is moistened but not soggy.
5. Shape the Stuffing Balls or Casserole Dish
Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. With damp hands, form mixture into golf ball–sized portions and place on the sheet.
6. Bake
Brush with melted butter or olive oil. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden and slightly crisp on the outside.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with gravy, cranberry sauce, or both. These stuffing balls are the perfect Thanksgiving appetizer, a festive holiday side dish, or a fun way to enjoy classic Italian sausage stuffing in bite-sized form.