stuffing muffins recipe
Making stuffing muffins is a fun twist on the classic stuffing recipe. Perfect for holiday dinners or anytime you’re craving something a little different, these muffin-sized stuffing portions offer all the flavor and comfort of traditional stuffing, but with a crispy edge and personal serving size. They’re packed with savory ingredients like bread, herbs, butter, and vegetables, and can be customized to include your favorite additions, such as sausage, cranberries, or nuts. Whether served as a side dish or a fun appetizer, stuffing muffins are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins
Ingredients:
4 cups cubed bread (day-old preferred)
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup onion, diced
1/2 cup Olive oil
1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 large eggs, beaten
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried sage
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Prepare the bread cubes:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin.
Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and toast lightly in the oven for about 10 minutes until crisp.
2. Sauté the vegetables:
In a skillet, pour oil oive over medium heat and sauté the celery and onion until softened.
3. Combine the ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, beaten eggs, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.
Gradually stir in the broth until the mixture is moistened but not soggy.
4. Fill the muffin tin:
Spoon the mixture into the prepared muffin tin, pressing lightly to pack each cup.
5. Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and set.
6. Serve:
Let the muffins cool slightly before serving. They pair perfectly with roasted meats or a hearty soup.
Tips for Making Stuffing Muffins:
Use Stale Bread: For the best texture, use day-old bread or toast the bread lightly. Fresh bread can make the stuffing too soggy.
Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients to avoid making the stuffing too dense. A light mix will help the muffins stay fluffy.
Sauté Vegetables: Sauté onions, celery, and garlic before mixing them into the stuffing. This enhances their flavor and prevents any raw taste.
Eggs for Binding: Eggs act as a binder, so don’t skip them. They hold the stuffing together and create the perfect muffin texture.
Adjust the Moisture: If your stuffing seems dry, add more broth or butter, but be careful not to make it too soggy. The mixture should be moist but not liquidy.
Grease the Muffin Tin: Generously grease your muffin tin or use muffin liners. The stuffing can stick, so ensure it doesn’t get stuck when removing.
Variations to Try:
Sausage Stuffing Muffins: Add cooked sausage (pork, turkey, or chicken sausage) for a meaty, savory flavor.
Cranberry Pecan Stuffing Muffins: Add dried cranberries and chopped pecans for a touch of sweetness and crunch.
Apple & Sage: Add diced apples and fresh sage for a fall-inspired flavor. The sweetness of the apples pairs beautifully with the savory stuffing.
Cheese Lovers’ Stuffing Muffins: Stir in grated cheese like sharp cheddar or Gruyère for a gooey, melty surprise inside.
Vegetarian Stuffing Muffins: Skip the meat and load up with extra vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, and parsnips for a hearty, vegetarian-friendly option.
Cornbread Stuffing Muffins: Swap the bread for cornbread for a southern twist that’s slightly sweeter and more crumbly.
Spicy Stuffing Muffins: Add jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce for a spicy kick!
Herb-Infused Butter: Infuse your butter with extra herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to amp up the flavor profile.
With these tips and variations, you can make stuffing muffins that suit any taste or occasion!