How to Make Bread Stuffing Balls 1940s Recipe Easily

Nothing evokes the warmth and nostalgia of a 1940s holiday dinner quite like bread stuffing balls. This classic recipe brings a comforting blend of herbs, sautéed vegetables, and soft bread crumbs rolled into perfect bite-sized morsels.

During the 1940s, ingredients were often simple and accessible, yet the flavors were rich and satisfying, reflecting the resourcefulness of home cooks in that era. These stuffing balls are perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion where traditional flavors take center stage.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through a detailed step-by-step guide to making authentic 1940s-style bread stuffing balls, sharing tips and variations to suit modern tastes while keeping that vintage charm alive.

Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or someone looking to recreate the magic of decades past, this recipe is sure to become a treasured addition to your cooking repertoire. Let’s dive into the heart of mid-century American cooking and bring a piece of history to your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This 1940s bread stuffing balls recipe is a timeless classic because it:

• Delivers comforting, nostalgic flavors reminiscent of home-cooked meals from the past.
• Uses simple, everyday ingredients that were staples in American kitchens during the 1940s.
• Is versatile and easy to customize with herbs and vegetables you love.
• Makes perfectly portioned balls that are easy to serve and great as a side dish or appetizer.
• Offers a great way to use up stale bread in a delicious and creative manner.

Ingredients

• 6 cups cubed stale white bread (about 1-inch cubes)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 cup finely chopped celery
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
• 2 large eggs, beaten

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet or shallow baking dish
• Oven
• Knife and chopping board
• Medium bowl for beating eggs

Instructions

1. Prepare the bread cubes: If your bread isn’t stale, cut it into 1-inch cubes and toast them lightly in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes to dry them out. This helps achieve the ideal texture for stuffing balls.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened but not browned. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Mix herbs and seasonings: In the skillet with the vegetables, stir in the dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to release the herbs’ aroma.
4. Combine bread and veggies: Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Pour the sautéed vegetable and herb mixture over the bread, gently tossing to combine evenly.
5. Add parsley and broth: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, a little at a time, mixing gently until the bread mixture is moist but not soggy. You may not need all the broth.
6. Incorporate eggs: Lightly beat the eggs in a medium bowl and gently fold them into the bread mixture. The eggs help bind the stuffing balls together.
7. Shape the stuffing balls: Using your hands, form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls, packing gently so they hold their shape but are not too compressed.
8. Bake the stuffing balls: Place the balls on a buttered or parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
9. Serve and enjoy: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These stuffing balls pair beautifully with roast turkey, chicken, or a vegetarian main dish.

Tips & Variations

“To get the perfect texture, make sure your bread is slightly stale or toasted to dry it out. This prevents sogginess and helps the stuffing balls hold together well.”

• Vegetarian option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meatless version.
• Add nuts or dried fruit: For added texture, toss in 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or dried cranberries.
• Cheese twist: Mix in 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar or Parmesan for a rich, savory flavor.
• Herb alternatives: Fresh rosemary, marjoram, or tarragon can substitute or complement the traditional sage and thyme.
• Make ahead: Prepare the stuffing balls a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving to save time on the day of your meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These bread stuffing balls make a perfect side dish for your holiday feast. Serve them alongside:

• Roast turkey or chicken with gravy
• Glazed ham or baked pork loin
• Vegetarian main dishes like Slow Cooker Roast Recipe With Vegetables Made Easy
• Hearty soups such as Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide

For a complete vintage-inspired meal, you might also enjoy pairing them with some classic sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or cranberry sauce. For more delicious and easy recipes, check out our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.

Conclusion

This 1940s bread stuffing balls recipe is a wonderful way to bring a bit of culinary history into your kitchen. It’s simple, flavorful, and steeped in tradition—perfect for those who appreciate the comforting foods of the past.

By using basic pantry ingredients and classic herbs, you can create a dish that’s both nostalgic and satisfying.

Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or simply want to enjoy a taste of vintage Americana, these stuffing balls offer a delicious and versatile side. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the herbs and add-ins to make the recipe your own while honoring the spirit of the 1940s.

Happy cooking, and enjoy this delightful journey back in time!

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