If you’re looking for delicious and easy meal ideas, look no further than stove top stuffing recipes. These dishes are not only simple to make but also packed with flavor, making them a favorite choice for quick weekday dinners or special family gatherings.
Whether you want a hearty casserole, a savory bake, or a creative twist on classic stuffing, these recipes offer something for everyone. With a variety of ingredients and flavors to choose from, you can find just the right dish to satisfy your taste buds and impress your loved ones.
1) Classic Bread Stuffing
Classic bread stuffing is a timeless dish that adds a comforting touch to any meal. You start with bread, preferably a day or two old, cut into cubes. Drying it out in the oven makes for a nice texture.
Next, melt some butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and celery, cooking until they’re soft and the onions are translucent.
Season the veggies with a blend of sage, thyme, and a bit of salt. These herbs give your stuffing that traditional flavor. Then, mix in the dried bread cubes.
Pour in chicken broth a little at a time, stirring to combine. The bread should soak up the liquid but not become mushy. Adjust the amount of broth to get the right texture.
Finally, transfer everything to a baking dish and bake it until it’s golden and crisp on top. This classic recipe is straightforward, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.
2) Sausage and Herb Stuffing
Sausage and herb stuffing is a savory side dish that pairs well with many main courses. This recipe is easy to prepare and brings out robust flavors.
Start by cutting a loaf of crusty bread into small cubes. Let the bread sit out overnight to dry out.
Next, preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish with butter. In a large pan, melt butter and add diced onions and celery. Cook them over medium heat until they are soft.
Add ground sausage to the pan and cook until there is no pink left. Mix in your favorite herbs such as sage, thyme, and rosemary. Stir well to combine the flavors.
Place the bread cubes in a large bowl and pour the sausage mixture over them. Toss everything together until the bread is evenly coated. If the mixture seems too dry, add some chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden and crispy. Enjoy your delicious sausage and herb stuffing!
3) Cornbread Stuffing
Cornbread stuffing is a delicious twist on traditional stuffing.
To start, you will need to prepare the cornbread. You can use pre-made cornbread mix for convenience or bake your own from scratch. Allow the cornbread to cool completely before crumbling it into small pieces.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and celery, cooking until the onions are translucent. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
Once the vegetables are ready, stir in spices like paprika and black pepper. You may also add dried cranberries and pecans for added texture and flavor.
In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread with the cooked vegetable mixture. Pour in chicken stock and mix until everything is well combined.
If you like a bit of heat, you can add chopped jalapeños. For a meaty version, consider adding cooked chorizo or sausage.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Your cornbread stuffing is now ready to serve!
This flavorful dish is perfect for holidays or any time you want to enjoy a hearty, comforting side.
4) Apple and Cranberry Stuffing
Apple and Cranberry Stuffing brings a sweet and tart flavor to your meal.
Start by melting a bit of butter in a frying pan. Sauté finely chopped celery and onions until they are soft.
Add fresh or dried cranberries to the mix and let them cook until they start to blister.
Once the cranberries are ready, stir in apple juice to give it a fruity taste.
Combine this mixture with a package of store-bought stuffing mix, making sure everything is well combined.
Transfer the stuffing to a baking dish and bake it in the oven until the top is golden brown.
The mix of apples and cranberries in your stuffing creates a great balance of sweetness and tartness that complements any dish.
5) Mushroom and Sage Stuffing
Mushroom and sage stuffing is a flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. The combination of earthy mushrooms and aromatic sage creates a rich taste.
First, gather your ingredients. You’ll need mushrooms, fresh sage, onions, garlic, celery, bread cubes, and vegetable or chicken broth.
Start by sautéing the onions, garlic, and celery in a pan with some butter. Once they are soft, add the mushrooms and cook until they are tender.
Next, you will add the fresh sage. Sage has a strong flavor, so a little goes a long way. Stir it into the mushroom mixture until it’s well blended.
Place the bread cubes in a large bowl. Pour the mushroom and sage mixture over the bread cubes, stirring to combine. Then, slowly add the broth until the bread is moistened but not soggy.
Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover it with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown.
Enjoy your mushroom and sage stuffing as a side dish or a main course!
6) Chestnut Stuffing
Chestnut stuffing is a tasty and unique option for your meal. It’s packed with rich flavors and has a wonderful texture. If you enjoy nuts in your dishes, this one is a must-try.
To prepare chestnut stuffing, start by sautéing onions and celery in butter. Cook them until they are soft.
Next, add chopped chestnuts and mushrooms to the pan. Allow these to cook for a few more minutes.
Once the vegetables are ready, pour in water and the remaining butter. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Stir in a bag of stuffing mix and combine everything well. Cover the pan, remove it from heat, and let it sit for about five minutes.
After the stuffing has absorbed all the flavors, fluff it with a fork before serving. You will have a delicious dish that is sure to impress your family or guests.
This chestnut stuffing pairs perfectly with roasted meats, especially during holiday meals. It’s easy to make and offers a delightful change from traditional stuffing recipes. Enjoy the nutty crunch and savory taste!
7) Wild Rice Stuffing
Wild rice stuffing offers a flavorful and nutritious twist on the classic. You’ll need wild rice, chicken broth, and some basic seasonings to get started.
First, cook the wild rice in chicken broth with a bay leaf and a pinch of salt. This will take about 40-45 minutes.
Once the rice is ready, add cooked bacon, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and fresh herbs like sage and parsley. These ingredients will bring out a rich mix of textures and flavors.
A little olive oil in a skillet can help toast the pecans and evenly heat the other add-ins. Stir everything together and let it cook for a few minutes until warmed.
Perfect for any holiday meal, this recipe is both easy to make and impressive to serve.
8) Bacon and Chestnut Stuffing
Bacon and chestnut stuffing adds a delicious twist to your meal. The rich flavor of bacon pairs perfectly with the earthy taste of chestnuts.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Heat the broth in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Grease a 9×13 baking dish with butter and set it aside.
Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir it often until it gets almost browned and crispy, which should take about 10 minutes. The bacon fats enhance the flavor of your stuffing.
Once the bacon is ready, mix in the chestnuts. The nuts provide a nice texture and a hint of sweetness. Make sure to stir everything together well.
Pour the heated broth over your mixture. This will help keep your stuffing moist and flavorful. Transfer everything to the prepared baking dish. Bake it in the oven until the top is golden brown.
This stuffing is great for holiday feasts or any gathering. With its unique blend of bacon and chestnuts, it’s sure to impress your guests.
9) Oyster Stuffing
Oyster stuffing is a delightful twist on traditional stuffing, adding a rich and savory flavor that seafood lovers will appreciate. It’s perfect for festive meals and special occasions.
Start by sautéing celery and onions in butter until soft. This will form the flavorful base of your stuffing.
Mix in breadcrumbs or cornbread stuffing mix to give your dish the right texture. Add seasonings like sage and poultry seasoning for classic stuffing taste.
Gently fold in oysters along with some chicken broth to keep the stuffing moist. Make sure the oysters are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Transfer your stuffing to a greased baking dish. Bake at 350°F until the top is golden and slightly crispy.
Oyster stuffing combines the briny flavor of oysters with aromatic herbs and fresh vegetables. Each bite is hearty and delicious, making your meal unforgettable.
This stuffing pairs wonderfully with turkey, chicken, or any poultry. It adds a unique twist that guests will love.
10) Chorizo and Cornbread Stuffing
Start by chopping 6 ounces of chorizo into small pieces. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chorizo until it starts to brown, about 3-5 minutes. Use a spoon to break the chorizo into small bits as it cooks.
In the same skillet, add 1 chopped onion, 2 ribs of chopped celery, and 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme). Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
Next, take 6 cups of stale cornbread cubes and place them in a large bowl. Add the cooked chorizo and vegetable mixture to the bowl. Toss everything together to combine the flavors.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth and 2 beaten eggs. Pour this mixture over the cornbread and chorizo. Gently fold everything together so the liquid is evenly absorbed.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 baking dish with nonstick spray. Transfer the stuffing mixture into the baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Bake the stuffing for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful chorizo and cornbread stuffing!
11) Spinach and Artichoke Stuffing
Spinach and artichoke make a flavorful and healthy stuffing for your dishes. Start by making sure you have fresh spinach and artichokes. You can use canned or fresh artichokes for this recipe.
First, chop the spinach and artichokes into small pieces. Then, sauté them together in a pan with some garlic and olive oil until they are tender.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach and artichokes with breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a bit of lemon zest for a fresh touch. You can also add some salt and pepper to taste.
Stir everything together until it is well mixed. This stuffing works perfectly for chicken breasts or as a stuffing for bell peppers. When you bake it, the cheese will melt, and the top will become golden and crispy.
For a vegetarian option, try using this stuffing in mushrooms or zucchini boats. Simply prepare the vegetables, fill them with the stuffing, and bake until done. The result is a delicious, healthier alternative that is sure to impress your guests.
12) Pumpkin and Sage Stuffing
Pumpkin and sage stuffing brings a unique twist to your traditional stovetop stuffing recipe. This dish features the warm flavors of pumpkin and the earthy taste of fresh sage.
Start by melting butter in a large skillet. Add chopped onions, celery, and minced garlic. Saute until they become soft and fragrant.
Next, stir in cubed pumpkin. Cook until the pumpkin pieces begin to soften. Add fresh sage leaves and cook for a few more minutes.
Pour in chicken or vegetable broth. Let the mixture simmer gently. Stir occasionally.
Now, add your Stove Top stuffing mix. Combine everything well, ensuring the stuffing mix absorbs the flavors.
Allow the stuffing to cook until it reaches your desired consistency. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish.
13) Parmesan and Garlic Stuffing
You can make delicious Parmesan and Garlic Stuffing with just a few steps. Start by heating oil in a pot over low heat. Add minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds. You don’t want it to burn.
Next, add chopped onion, celery, oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Raise the heat to medium and stir all the ingredients. Cook for about 2 minutes until the veggies start to soften.
Add your stuffing mix to the pot. Then, sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese, basil, and parsley. Mix everything together well. The cheese will melt and add a rich flavor.
If you prefer a crunchy topping, you can transfer the mixture to a baking dish and brown it in the oven.
Serve your Parmesan and Garlic Stuffing hot. It pairs well with chicken, turkey, or as a side dish for any meal. Your family will love the tasty mix of garlic and cheese in every bite.
14) Blue Cheese and Walnut Stuffing
Blue Cheese and Walnut Stuffing is a unique, savory dish. It combines the creamy tang of blue cheese with the earthy crunch of walnuts.
To start, preheat your oven to 400°F. Butter a 2-quart baking dish.
In a skillet, heat olive oil and melt some butter. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking for about 3 to 4 minutes.
Next, add diced pears to the skillet. Cook until they are tender, which takes about 7 minutes. This adds a sweet contrast to the savory ingredients.
Mix in your prepared Stove Top stuffing mix. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Then, add crumbled blue cheese and chopped walnuts. Fold these in gently.
Transfer the mixture to your buttered baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden and slightly crisp.
Enjoy this flavorful stuffing with your favorite main dishes. The combination of blue cheese and walnuts adds a gourmet touch to your meal.
15) Pecan and Cranberry Stuffing
To make Pecan and Cranberry Stuffing, start by heating some butter in a large saucepan. Add chopped onions and celery, cooking until they are soft.
Add dried cranberries and pecans to the mixture. These ingredients bring a sweet and nutty taste that complements the savory components.
Pour in some chicken broth and let it simmer. This helps to soften the cranberries and pecans while adding a rich flavor.
Now, add your Stove Top Stuffing mix and stir it well. Make sure everything is evenly combined.
Put the stuffing into a greased casserole dish. Bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes. The top should be golden and slightly crispy.
Your Pecan and Cranberry Stuffing is now ready. Enjoy it as a side dish at your next family dinner or holiday meal.
16) Leek and Gruyere Stuffing
Leek and Gruyere stuffing is a delicious twist on traditional stuffing. You start by preparing bread cubes, making sure they are dry and slightly golden.
Next, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped leeks, celery, thyme, and sage. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
Pour in a bit of white wine and continue cooking until the liquid evaporates. This helps to intensify the flavors.
Mix the cooked vegetables into the toasted bread cubes. Add grated Gruyere cheese for a rich, savory taste.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bake the stuffing until it is warm and the top is slightly crispy. The blend of leeks and Gruyere creates a unique and enjoyable stuffing dish.
17) Vegetarian Stuffing
Vegetarian stuffing is a fantastic option for those who don’t eat meat. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and buttering a 3½-4-quart baking dish.
Chop onions, celery, carrots, and mushrooms. Sauté them in a skillet with butter over medium heat until the vegetables are soft.
Add poultry seasoning and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. For a twist, you can mix in diced apple or dried cranberries.
Cut stale bread into cubes and spread them out on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven until lightly browned and dried out.
Combine the toasted bread with the sautéed vegetables in a large bowl. Slowly add vegetable broth to moisten the bread, mixing well until all pieces are coated.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Bake in the oven for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
This vegetarian stuffing pairs well with any main dish and is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
18) Gluten-Free Stuffing
Making gluten-free stuffing on the stove top is simple and delicious. Start by using gluten-free bread. Either let the bread slices air dry or toast them in a low oven until they are firm. This helps create the right texture for your stuffing.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped celery and onions, cooking until they become soft and translucent. Stir in fresh herbs like thyme, sage, and rosemary for classic stuffing flavor.
Cut the dried bread into cubes and mix it with the cooked vegetables. Pour in a bit of chicken or vegetable broth to moisten the bread. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well and allow it to sit, covered, for a few minutes so the flavors meld together.
For an extra touch, you can include minced garlic or a splash of gluten-free soy sauce. This gives a richer flavor to your stuffing. Serve warm and enjoy!
19) Slow Cooker Stuffing
Making stuffing in a slow cooker can save you time and effort. You’ll need a slow cooker, bread cubes, broth, and a few simple ingredients.
Start by greasing your slow cooker. This helps to prevent sticking.
In a large bowl, combine your bread cubes with broth, eggs, and seasonings. Mix well.
Next, pour the mixture into the slow cooker. Set it to high for about 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 3-4 more hours.
You can also add vegetables like celery and onions. Sauté them before adding for extra flavor.
For a different touch, add herbs like rosemary or sage.
Serve it right from the slow cooker to keep it warm.
20) Pressure Cooker Stuffing
Pressure cooking is a quick and easy way to make delicious stuffing.
Start by setting your pressure cooker to Sauté. Melt some butter in the pot. Add chopped onions and celery. Cook until they start to soften.
Add your favorite herbs like sage and thyme. Season with a little salt and pepper. Stir well to mix everything together.
Next, add your broth. Stir to combine the ingredients. Add your bread cubes. Mix until the bread absorbs the liquid.
Place the trivet in the pot. Add two cups of water to the bottom. Put the stuffing mixture in a pressure cooker-safe bowl. Place the bowl on the trivet.
Seal the pressure cooker lid. Set it to high pressure for a couple of minutes. When it’s done, perform a quick pressure release.
Open the lid and fluff the stuffing with a fork. It’s ready to serve. This method makes flavorful, moist stuffing every time.
How to Prepare Stove Top Stuffing
Making stove top stuffing is simple. Follow basic preparation steps and use some helpful tips to ensure your stuffing is perfect every time.
Basic Preparation Steps
- Heat the Broth: Begin by heating your broth over medium heat in a saucepan. Once it is warm, add butter. Let the butter melt fully.
- Add Flavors: Stir in seasonings like garlic powder and thyme. Let the mixture come to a boil.
- Mix in the Stuffing: Once boiling, add your stuffing mix. Turn off the heat immediately.
- Let it Sit: Cover the saucepan with a lid and allow it to stand for about 5 minutes.
- Fluff and Serve: After the mixture has soaked, use a fork to fluff the stuffing. Serve it hot.
Tips for Perfect Stuffing
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables such as onions, celery, and garlic can enhance the stuffing’s flavor.
- Toast the Bread: For homemade stuffing, toast bread cubes in the oven for a few minutes until they are golden and crisp.
- Add Extras: Consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or nuts like pecans to give a unique taste.
- Proper Seasoning: Season the vegetables with salt and pepper during cooking for added flavor.
- Consistency: If the stuffing seems too dry, add a bit more broth. If too moist, let it sit longer uncovered.
Following these guidelines will help you make delicious stove top stuffing every time.
Nutritional Information
When preparing Stove Top Stuffing, it’s essential to be aware of its nutritional content. Here, you’ll learn about the calories, fat, proteins, and other key nutrients present in a typical serving.
Caloric Content
A serving of Stove Top Stuffing typically contains around 105 calories. Out of these, approximately 37.8 calories come from fat. This means 36% of the total calories are derived from fat. Knowing this helps you manage your daily caloric intake, especially if you’re balancing multiple meals.
Macronutrient Breakdown
Protein: One serving has about 2 grams of protein. While not a significant source, it does contribute to your daily protein needs.
Fat: You can find roughly 4.2 grams of fat in one serving. Within this, approximately 1 gram is saturated fat, which should be kept in check to maintain heart health.
Carbohydrates: Each serving includes around 18 grams of carbohydrates, making it a considerable portion of the dish. These carbs provide quick energy but should be balanced with other nutrients.
Fiber: Stove Top Stuffing offers about 1 gram of dietary fiber per serving, which helps in digestion and keeping you fuller for longer.
Understanding these details enables you to fit Stove Top Stuffing into a balanced diet efficiently.
Alternative Ingredients and Variations
In this section, you’ll explore ways to adapt Stove Top stuffing to meet different dietary needs. You’ll discover gluten-free options and vegetarian and vegan substitutes that still taste delicious.
Gluten-Free Options
For those who need a gluten-free diet, there are several ways to modify Stove Top stuffing. Gluten-free bread crumbs are a great place to start. You can use pre-packaged gluten-free stuffing mixes or make your own by drying out your favorite gluten-free bread and crumbling it.
Cornbread is another excellent gluten-free choice. It adds a slightly sweet flavor and pairs well with savory ingredients. Just make sure to use a gluten-free cornbread mix or recipe.
Rice or quinoa can also replace traditional bread-based stuffing. These grains absorb flavors well and provide a unique texture that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Vegetarian and Vegan Substitutes
Vegetarian and vegan substitutions can make Stove Top stuffing suitable for those who avoid animal products. Instead of chicken broth, you can utilize vegetable broth to retain the savory essence.
For a protein boost, consider adding chickpeas or lentils. These legumes not only fit vegan diets but also bring a hearty texture.
Nutritional yeast is another helpful ingredient. It can provide a cheesy flavor without using dairy, making it an excellent choice for vegan versions.
Vegans can also replace butter with plant-based margarine or olive oil. These fats ensure that your stuffing remains moist and flavorful.