Here’s a make-ahead holiday appetizer or side that’s guaranteed to be a hit. Crispy, savory, and festive — bacon-wrapped stuffing bites turn classic stuffing into bite-sized, crowd-pleasing treats perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any potluck.
These bites were inspired by a memorable Irish-style holiday meal where the turkey and stuffing were both finished with bacon. The smoky, salty bacon paired with soft, seasoned stuffing was irresistible — and it sparked the idea to shape stuffing into small balls and wrap each one in bacon. The result is an easy, make-ahead appetizer or side that delivers great texture and bold flavor every time.
Why You’ll Love These Bacon-Wrapped Stuffing Bites
- Combines two favorites: crispy bacon and savory stuffing in a single bite.
- Perfect for holiday entertaining, potlucks, and appetizer spreads.
- Make ahead: form and refrigerate, then bake before serving.
- Works with homemade stuffing or a boxed mix for convenience.
- Versatile — serve as a finger-food appetizer or as a side dish on the holiday table.
Ingredients for this recipe
Below are the essentials you’ll need. Adjust quantities depending on crowd size; the printable recipe card later in the post gives exact measures.
- Prepared stuffing (homemade or a boxed mix prepared according to package directions)
- Bacon slices, cut in half
- Nonstick spray or parchment paper for baking
Tip: A single box of Stove Top or a similar mix typically makes about 3 cups of prepared stuffing, which yields roughly 12 bites when rolled into 12 portions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make bacon-wrapped stuffing bites. Times and temperatures are included in the recipe card below.
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1. Prepare your favorite stuffing (homemade or prepared mix) -
2. Divide into portions and wrap each with a half slice of bacon -
3. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet and bake until bacon is crisp
Helpful Tips When Making This Recipe
- Make the bites the day before: form the balls, wrap with bacon, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Try to make each ball the same size so they cook evenly and finish at the same time.
- If you want extra-crispy bacon, increase the oven to 400°F for the final few minutes — watch closely to prevent burning.
- Use stoneware for best browning; if using glass, allow a few extra minutes as glass heats differently.
- Turn bites halfway through baking for even crisping and color.
- Leftover bacon strips can be used to cover turkey or ham for the same smoky finish.
Substitutions and Variations
- Add dried cranberries or chopped apples to the stuffing for a touch of sweetness.
- Skewer each bite with a toothpick and serve with cranberry sauce or a mustard dip for easy appetizer service.
- Swap bacon for prosciutto or pancetta for a slightly different texture and flavor.
What to Serve With These Bites
These bacon-wrapped stuffing bites pair well with traditional holiday sides and can also join an appetizer spread. Consider serving with:
- Roast turkey or glazed ham
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Baked vegetable casseroles
- Fresh dinner rolls or bread
- A cheese board and a selection of fresh vegetables for a mixed appetizer table
Bacon Wrapped Stuffing Balls — Recipe Card
Bacon Wrapped Stuffing Balls
Ingredients
- 3 cups prepared stuffing (homemade or prepared from 1 box mix)
- 6 slices bacon, each cut in half (12 half-strips)
- Nonstick spray or parchment paper for the baking sheet
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- With clean hands, roll the prepared stuffing into 12 even balls, about 1.5–2 inches in diameter.
- Wrap each ball with a half strip of bacon, tucking the seam underneath, and place seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray the sheet if not using parchment.
- Bake for 30–45 minutes, turning the bites halfway through so they brown evenly. If you prefer extra-crispy bacon, increase the oven to 400°F for the last 5–10 minutes—watch closely.
- Remove from oven and let rest a few minutes. Serve warm as an appetizer or alongside main holiday dishes.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 124 · Total Fat: 8g · Saturated Fat: 2g · Cholesterol: 6mg · Sodium: 336mg · Carbohydrates: 10g · Protein: 3g
These bacon-wrapped stuffing bites are an easy, crowd-pleasing addition to any holiday menu. Make them ahead, bake them just before guests arrive, and enjoy the compliments — they’re one of those simple recipes that feel special and festive every time.
