If you’re looking to add a cozy, flavorful side that steals the show at any holiday table, you’re going to love this Crockpot Stuffing Recipe. This dish combines the comforting taste of homemade stuffing with the convenience of a slow cooker, delivering perfectly moist, savory bites packed with tender onions, celery, earthy mushrooms, and a blend of fragrant herbs. It’s a game-changer when you want a hearty stuffing without standing over a hot oven, and the way the bread cubes soak up all the buttery, herb-infused goodness will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, this Crockpot Stuffing Recipe quickly became a favorite in my kitchen, and I can’t wait for you to try it too!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients right is half the fun in this Crockpot Stuffing Recipe. Each element plays an essential role—from the creamy butter that adds richness to the fresh herbs that bring a fragrant lift. Together, they create that perfect balance of texture and taste that makes stuffing so irresistible.
- 1 cup butter: Melted to create a rich base that sautés the veggies perfectly.
- 2 cups onion, chopped: Adds savory sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cups celery, chopped: Offers a crisp, fresh crunch contrasting the soft bread.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley: Brings a bright, herbal note to lighten the dish.
- 16 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced: Adds earthiness and moisture that keep the stuffing tender.
- 12 cups stuffing bread cubes: The hearty base that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning: Classic herb blend that rounds out the savory profile.
- 1½ teaspoon rubbed sage: Gives that timeless, aromatic quality every great stuffing needs.
- 1½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors in harmony.
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme: Adds a subtle woodsy hint that’s incredibly comforting.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Offers a touch of warmth and spice.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Keeps the stuffing moist and adds a savory depth.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Helps bind everything together for perfect texture.
How to Make Crockpot Stuffing Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s bubbling with aroma. This golden butter is your flavor foundation, soaking into each ingredient. Add the chopped onions, celery, and sliced mushrooms, sautéing until the onions turn translucent and the mushrooms release their juices—this softens the veggies and marries their flavors beautifully.
Step 2: Add Fresh Parsley and Remove from Heat
Once the veggies are perfectly sautéed, stir in the fresh parsley to infuse a lively herbaceous note. Immediately take the skillet off the heat to preserve the bright flavor of the parsley—it’s these little details that bring the stuffing to life.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the bread cubes with poultry seasoning, rubbed sage, salt, fresh thyme, and freshly ground black pepper. This step ensures every cube of bread is evenly coated with those classic stuffing seasonings, laying the groundwork for that unforgettable taste.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Together
Pour the warm vegetable and butter mixture over the seasoned bread cubes, giving it a good stir so everything starts blending. Then, add in the chicken broth and beaten eggs, tossing lightly until the bread cubes soak up the liquid but are not packed too tightly—this is key for a stuffing that’s moist without being mushy.
Step 5: Transfer to Crockpot and Cook
Move the combined stuffing mix into your slow cooker, spreading it out but without compressing it. Cook it on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours depending on your schedule. The slow cooker works its magic here, melding all those flavors while keeping the stuffing tender and piping hot—no need to hover over a pan in a hot oven!
How to Serve Crockpot Stuffing Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh touch and a bit of color, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or a few sprigs of thyme on top right before serving. A few toasted pecans or sliced almonds can also add delightful crunch and a nutty contrast to the soft stuffing.
Side Dishes
This Crockpot Stuffing Recipe pairs beautifully with classic roast turkey or baked ham, but you can also get creative with garlic-roasted vegetables, cranberry sauce, or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness. Its versatility makes it perfect for holiday feasts or cozy family dinners alike.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try scooping the stuffing into individual ramekins for elegant single servings, or use it as a flavorful filling inside roasted acorn squash halves. You can even top it with melted cheese toward the end of cooking for a gooey, golden crust that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Crockpot Stuffing Recipe to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This way, you can easily reheat it and enjoy the comforting flavors without any hassle.
Freezing
If you want to save stuffing for longer, freezing is a great option. Pack it tightly into a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. Your stuffing will stay delicious for up to 3 months, ready to be thawed and reheated whenever you need a quick side.
Reheating
For the best texture when reheating, thaw the stuffing overnight in the fridge, then warm it up covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions—but covering the dish helps retain moisture and prevents drying out.
FAQs
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh in this Crockpot Stuffing Recipe?
Yes, dried herbs are a fine substitute if fresh aren’t available. Just use about one-third of the amount called for since dried herbs are more concentrated. The flavor might be a bit different, but still delicious!
Is it okay to use pre-packaged stuffing bread cubes?
Absolutely! Pre-packaged bread cubes save time and are convenient. Just make sure they’re plain or lightly seasoned to avoid overpowering the flavor balance in your stuffing.
Can I make this stuffing vegetarian?
Definitely. Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and ensure your butter is plant-based if needed. This version will still be rich and flavorful thanks to the herbs and sautéed vegetables.
Why do you add eggs to the stuffing mixture?
The beaten eggs help bind the stuffing ingredients together, giving it structure so it holds its shape when served without becoming dry or crumbly.
How do I prevent my stuffing from being too soggy in the crockpot?
Make sure not to pack the stuffing tightly in the slow cooker and avoid adding too much broth. The bread cubes should be moist but not swimming in liquid. Also, cooking on low heat for longer helps evaporate excess moisture gently.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Stuffing Recipe is more than just a side—it’s a comforting hug on a plate that brings warmth and joy to any meal. Its simplicity and rich, balanced flavors make it the kind of dish you’ll want to turn to again and again. I can’t wait for you to try this in your kitchen and see how it transforms your holiday or everyday dinners into memorable feasts!
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Crockpot Stuffing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 14 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crockpot Stuffing recipe is a classic, comforting side dish perfect for holiday gatherings or any cozy meal. Made with savory sautéed vegetables, fresh herbs, and moist bread cubes, it’s cooked slowly in a crockpot to develop deep, rich flavors and a tender texture without the need for oven baking.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 2 cups onion, chopped
- 2 cups celery, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley
- 16 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1½ teaspoons rubbed sage
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup butter
- 12 cups stuffing bread cubes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Instructions
- Prepare Butter and Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly and hot. Add chopped onions, celery, and sliced mushrooms and sauté until the onions become translucent and the mushrooms have released their liquid.
- Add Parsley and Remove from Heat: Stir fresh parsley into the sautéed vegetable mixture, then immediately remove the skillet from the heat to prevent overcooking.
- Mix Bread Cubes and Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the stuffing bread cubes with poultry seasoning, rubbed sage, salt, fresh thyme, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss thoroughly to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the warm vegetable and herb mixture over the bread cubes. Add the chicken broth and beaten eggs, tossing lightly until all ingredients are combined and the bread is moistened.
- Cook in Crockpot: Transfer the stuffing mixture into a slow cooker. Do not pack the stuffing tightly, allowing room for it to cook thoroughly. Cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 8 hours until the stuffing is hot and cooked through with a tender texture.
Notes
- Use day-old bread cubes for the best texture; fresh bread may result in a soggy stuffing.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
- Adding sausage or nuts can enhance the stuffing but will affect dietary considerations.
- Do not overfill the crockpot to ensure even cooking.
- For a crispy top, you can uncover the slow cooker in the last 30 minutes and increase the heat.
