If you are looking for the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and festive joy to your table, this Crockpot Stuffing Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines the perfect blend of herbs, tender vegetables, and savory bread cubes all slow-cooked to fluffy, flavorful perfection. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this recipe delivers a moist, aromatic stuffing that feels like a big, loving hug on a chilly evening.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each adding a unique layer of flavor, texture, or color to make this Crockpot Stuffing Recipe unforgettable. From the crunch of fresh celery to the warm fragrance of rosemary and sage, everything works together beautifully.
- Bread (1 loaf, about 1 pound): Stale bread works best to soak up all the savory goodness without turning mushy.
- Celery (1 cup, diced): Fresh celery adds a satisfying crunch and a subtle freshness.
- Onion (1 cup, diced): Adds natural sweetness and depth to balance savory herbs.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Perfect for sautéing vegetables and enriching flavor.
- Dried sage (2 teaspoons): The classic herb that gives stuffing its unmistakable aroma.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor profile with its slightly minty notes.
- Dried rosemary (1 teaspoon): Adds a fragrant, pine-like essence that brightens things up.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Adjust to taste to bring out all the flavors.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Freshly ground styles the dish with a mild kick.
- Vegetable or chicken broth (2-3 cups): The moisture that ties everything together, adjust for your preferred consistency.
- Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): Adds a lovely pop of green color and a touch of brightness.
- Diced apples or cranberries (1 cup, optional): Bring a sweet and tart contrast to the savory base if you want a creative twist.
How to Make Crockpot Stuffing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Begin by cutting your bread into cubes. For the best texture, allow the bread to dry out naturally or quickly toast it at 300°F in the oven for about 10 to 15 minutes. This step ensures your stuffing won’t become mushy and will soak up all the delicious broth just right.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat, then add the diced onions and celery. Sauté them gently for 5 to 7 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This step unlocks the sweetness in the vegetables and forms the flavorful base of the stuffing.
Step 3: Add the Herbs and Seasoning
Sprinkle dried sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and freshly ground black pepper into the skillet with the softened veggies. Stir well and cook together for another minute to release the aromatic oils from the herbs, which really elevates the taste.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetable mixture, and your optional diced apples or cranberries if using. This combination is the heart of your Crockpot Stuffing Recipe, bringing together texture and bursts of flavor with every bite.
Step 5: Add the Broth
Gradually pour in 2 cups of broth, tossing the mixture gently to ensure even moisture distribution. Add more broth as needed to achieve a moist but not soggy consistency — this step is key to that ideal fluffy stuffing everyone loves.
Step 6: Transfer to Crockpot
Carefully move the stuffing mixture into your crockpot and cover it with the lid. This slow-cooking method is what makes this Crockpot Stuffing Recipe so effortlessly delicious, infusing every bite with cozy, blended flavors.
Step 7: Cook Low and Slow
Cook on the low setting for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. If you crave a crispy, golden top, simply uncover the crockpot for the final 30 minutes of cooking and let the heat work its magic.
Step 8: Fluff and Garnish
Once cooked, fluff your stuffing gently with a fork to separate the pieces and release steam. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and a touch of fresh flavor right before serving.
How to Serve Crockpot Stuffing Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic choice to brighten the dish with its green vibrance and mild herbal freshness. For an extra touch, you can also add toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts to introduce a delightful crunch and a nutty aroma that complements the cozy flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
This Crockpot Stuffing Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or chicken, but don’t stop there! Serve it alongside mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or even a crisp salad to balance out the hearty stuffing with fresh textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, spoon your stuffing into individual ramekins or hollowed-out bell peppers and bake them for a personalized presentation. Alternatively, layering it in a casserole dish with a layer of cranberry sauce swirled in adds a lovely tangy surprise that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftover stuffing in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect next-day meal or a tasty side to warm up during busy holiday seasons.
Freezing
Crockpot Stuffing Recipe also freezes beautifully. Pack portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, so you always have a comforting meal ready whenever you need it.
Reheating
To reheat, place your stuffing in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Warm it in a 350°F oven for 20 to 30 minutes or until heated through. A quick fluff and fresh parsley garnish bring it back to life as if freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread for this Crockpot Stuffing Recipe?
Fresh bread can work, but it’s best to dry it out either by leaving it out overnight or toasting it briefly in the oven. Stale bread absorbs the broth more effectively without turning mushy, ensuring the perfect stuffing texture.
Is it possible to make this Crockpot Stuffing Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and ensure that your butter and any optional ingredients fit your dietary preferences. The herbs and vegetables carry plenty of flavor on their own.
Can I add meat like sausage or bacon to this recipe?
Yes! Adding cooked sausage or bacon can introduce a smoky, savory element that pairs wonderfully with the herbs. Just sauté the meat along with the onions and celery before mixing everything together.
How do I get a crispy top when cooking stuffing in the crockpot?
Simply remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the top to dry out and crisp up slightly. Alternatively, transfer the stuffing to an oven-safe dish and broil it for a few minutes to get a golden crust.
Can I prepare this Crockpot Stuffing Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffing mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. When ready, add the broth, transfer to the crockpot, and cook as directed. This makes it a fantastic recipe for busy holiday schedules.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Stuffing Recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that fill your home with delicious aromas and your heart with comfort. It’s simple to make, versatile, and sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. So grab your crockpot and get ready to enjoy stuffing that tastes homemade and full of love each and every time.
Print
Crockpot Stuffing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Crockpot Stuffing recipe is a convenient and flavorful side dish perfect for holiday meals or any comforting dinner. Using stale bread cubes combined with sautéed onions, celery, and a blend of classic herbs, this stuffing cooks slowly in a crockpot to develop a moist, tender texture with an optional crispy top. The addition of diced apples or cranberries adds a sweet contrast, making it a well-rounded and delicious dish.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 loaf Bread (about 1 pound) (Stale bread works best.)
- 1 cup Celery, diced (Fresh celery adds crunch.)
- 1 cup Onion, diced (Provides sweetness and depth.)
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (Used for sautéing vegetables.)
Herbs and Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons Dried sage (Classic herb for stuffing.)
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme (Enhances flavor profile.)
- 1 teaspoon Dried rosemary (Adds a fragrant note.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Adjust according to taste.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper (Freshly ground for spice.)
Liquids and Extras
- 2–3 cups Vegetable or chicken broth (Adjust for desired consistency.)
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped (Adds brightness and color.)
- 1 cup Diced apples or cranberries (optional) (For sweetness and texture.)
Instructions
- Prepare Bread: Cut the loaf of bread into cubes and allow it to dry out at room temperature. Alternatively, toast the bread cubes in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes until lightly crisp.
- Sauté Vegetables: Melt the unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and celery and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
- Add Herbs and Seasonings: Stir in the dried sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and freshly ground black pepper into the skillet with the vegetables. Cook for an additional minute to release the herb aromas.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread, sautéed vegetable and herb mixture, and the optional diced apples or cranberries. Gently toss to mix everything evenly.
- Add Broth: Gradually pour in 2 cups of vegetable or chicken broth, stirring gently to moisten the stuffing. Add more broth as needed to achieve a moist but not soggy consistency.
- Transfer to Crockpot: Place the stuffing mixture evenly into the crockpot and cover with the lid.
- Cook: Cook on the low setting for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. To create a crispy top, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Finish and Serve: Once cooked, fluff the stuffing with a fork and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving warm.
Notes
- Stale bread absorbs flavors better and prevents the stuffing from becoming mushy.
- You can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth based on preference or dietary needs.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and vegetable broth.
- Adding diced apples or cranberries is optional but recommended for a sweet contrast.
- Adjust seasoning and salt to taste after combining all ingredients.
- Crisping the top in the last 30 minutes enhances texture but is optional depending on your preference.
