Stove Top Stuffing isn’t just for Thanksgiving anymore. This versatile boxed mix can transform into countless delicious dishes that go well beyond the traditional holiday table.
From casseroles and meatballs to stuffed shells and even waffles, you can use this pantry staple in surprising ways throughout the year.
Whether you’re looking for quick weeknight dinner solutions or want to put a creative spin on a family favorite, these Stove Top Stuffing recipes offer convenience without sacrificing flavor. With just a few extra ingredients, you can turn this humble side dish into the star of your meal.
1. Classic Stove Top Stuffing with Butter and Poultry Seasoning
Stove Top stuffing becomes a delicious side dish with just a few simple ingredients. Start by melting butter in a pan over low heat and adding poultry seasoning to create a flavorful base.
Dice some onions and celery while the butter melts. Sauté these vegetables in the seasoned butter until they become soft and fragrant.
Let the mixture cool slightly before tossing it with your Stove Top stuffing mix. Adjust the amount of poultry seasoning based on your taste preferences.
For extra richness, use chicken stock instead of water when preparing the stuffing.
2. Oven-Baked Stove Top Stuffing with Herbs
Baking Stove Top Stuffing in the oven gives it a crispy top while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. Transform the boxed mix with just a few additions.
Add chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, or parsley to the mix before baking. Fresh herbs make a huge difference in elevating store-bought stuffing.
Melt butter in a pan with diced onions before combining with the stuffing mix. Transfer to a buttered baking dish and bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes.
This method creates those desirable crispy edges everyone loves.
3. Stove Top Stuffing Casserole with Sausage and Cranberries
This hearty casserole turns regular Stove Top stuffing into a memorable dish. Add flavorful Italian sausage and sweet-tart cranberries to elevate boxed stuffing.
Prepare the Stove Top stuffing according to package directions, substituting chicken or beef broth for water to add depth. Brown the sausage in a skillet with sautéed onions and celery.
Mix the cooked stuffing with the sausage mixture and dried cranberries. Transfer everything to a casserole dish and bake until golden on top.
Consider adding chopped apples or pecans for extra texture.
4. Sage and Onion Stove Top Stuffing
Sage and onion add warmth and depth to any meal. Use store-bought Stove Top stuffing as your base for this classic combination.
Sauté diced yellow onions in butter until translucent. Add sage, either fresh or dried, to the onions to release the herb’s aromatic oils.
Mix your onion-sage butter mixture into the prepared stuffing. Use chicken or turkey broth instead of water for more flavor.
The sage provides an earthy flavor while the onions add sweetness and texture.
5. French Bread Stove Top Stuffing
French bread makes an excellent base for stovetop stuffing. Its crusty exterior and soft interior create perfect texture contrast when dried and cubed.
Cut a loaf of crusty French or Italian bread into small cubes and let it dry out overnight or toast it lightly in the oven. Sauté onions and celery in butter until soft.
Add your bread cubes, herbs, and hot chicken or vegetable broth. The amount of broth you add determines your stuffing’s consistency.
Add more broth for a softer texture, less for a firmer result.
6. Stove Top Stuffing with Caramelized Onions and Celery
Caramelizing onions and celery adds deep flavor to your boxed stuffing. Slowly cook diced onions and celery in butter over medium-low heat for about 15-20 minutes until they turn golden brown and sweet.
The caramelization process brings out the vegetables’ natural sugars, creating rich flavor. Add your caramelized mixture to the stuffing when you combine it with broth.
Stir in a small amount of poultry seasoning or fresh herbs like thyme or sage before serving for an extra touch.
7. Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf
Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf offers a clever twist by replacing breadcrumbs with stuffing mix. This substitution adds more flavor and creates a juicier meatloaf.
Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, dry Stove Top Stuffing mix, eggs, water, and half of the ketchup you plan to use.
Mix the ingredients thoroughly and shape into a loaf. Top with the remaining ketchup before baking.
You can use any flavor of Stove Top Stuffing to customize the taste profile.
8. Chicken and Stove Top Stuffing Soup
Chicken and Stove Top Stuffing Soup combines comfort food favorites into one hearty meal. This soup transforms traditional stuffing into a creamy, satisfying dish perfect for cold evenings.
Prepare your Stove Top Stuffing according to package directions. In a separate pot, simmer chicken broth with cooked, shredded chicken and vegetables like carrots and celery.
Add a generous scoop of the prepared stuffing to each bowl of hot soup when ready to serve. The stuffing soaks up the broth and adds wonderful texture and flavor.
Customize this soup with additional seasonings or cream for extra richness.
9. Stove Top Stuffing with Mushrooms and Fresh Herbs
Elevate your basic Stove Top stuffing with the rich flavor of wild mushrooms and fresh herbs. Sauté 1 pound of sliced mushrooms in 2 tablespoons of butter until golden brown.
Add diced onions and celery to the pan and cook until softened. Mix the sautéed vegetables with prepared Stove Top stuffing.
Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage for enhanced flavor. Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water for extra moisture and taste.
10. Stove Top Stuffing with Roasted Butternut Squash
Combining Stove Top stuffing with roasted butternut squash creates a delicious side dish for holiday meals or weeknight dinners. The sweet, nutty flavor of butternut squash pairs wonderfully with the savory herbs in the stuffing.
Roast cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper at 400°F until tender. Prepare your Stove Top stuffing according to package directions.
Mix the roasted squash into the prepared stuffing. Add sautéed onions, chopped pecans, or fresh sage for extra flavor.
11. Stove Top Stuffing with Apples and Sausage
This semi-homemade stuffing combines the convenience of Stove Top mix with fresh ingredients for a flavor-packed side dish. Sweet apples and savory sausage create a perfect balance that elevates the boxed stuffing mix.
Brown your favorite sausage in a pan. Add diced apples and onions, cooking until softened.
Mix in the prepared Stove Top stuffing and fresh thyme for an aromatic boost. This dish comes together in about 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.
Customize this recipe with different types of sausage or apple varieties to suit your taste.
12. Stove Top Stuffing Dressing with Chicken Broth and Eggs
This easy transformation turns boxed stuffing into a rich, cohesive dressing. Start with your favorite Stove Top Stuffing mix as the base.
Beat two eggs in a bowl and add them to your prepared stuffing mix. The eggs help bind everything together for a more casserole-like texture.
Pour warm chicken broth gradually into the mixture, stirring between additions. Use just enough broth to moisten the stuffing without making it soggy.
Sauté onions and celery before adding them to your stuffing mixture for extra flavor. Bake in a greased dish at 350°F until the top is golden and slightly crispy, about 30 minutes.
13. Spicy Cajun Stove Top Stuffing
Kick up your stuffing game with a Cajun twist that adds bold flavors to classic Stove Top stuffing. Melt butter in a skillet and sauté onion, celery, and bell pepper for about three minutes.
Add andouille sausage for authentic Cajun flavor. The spicy sausage pairs perfectly with the vegetables and bread base.
Enhance the heat level by incorporating Cajun seasoning to taste. Some recipes also include shrimp for an extra special touch.
Use this stuffing as a side dish or to stuff peppers for a complete meal.
14. Stove Top Stuffing with Bacon and Cheddar
Stove Top Stuffing with Bacon and Cheddar creates a flavor-packed side dish that elevates the classic boxed mix. Cook bacon until crispy, then set it aside to cool before crumbling.
Prepare the Stove Top Stuffing according to package directions. Mix in sharp cheddar cheese while the stuffing is still hot, allowing it to melt throughout.
Fold in the crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for extra flavor. Add sautéed onions, celery, and bell peppers for more texture and taste.
This comforting dish pairs perfectly with holiday meals or weeknight dinners.
15. Vegetarian Stove Top Stuffing with Mixed Vegetables
You can create a delicious meatless version using Stove Top stuffing mix as your base. Vegetarian stuffing doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor.
Sauté a colorful mix of vegetables like carrots, peas, corn, and green beans in a little oil. Add diced onions, celery, and garlic for an aromatic base.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth when preparing the stuffing according to package instructions. Mix in your sautéed vegetables once the stuffing is ready.
Try adding fresh herbs like sage and thyme for extra flavor. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast gives it a savory depth that complements the vegetables.
16. Gluten-Free Stove Top Stuffing Adaptation
Stove Top brand doesn’t make a gluten-free stuffing mix, but you can create your own version at home. Start with gluten-free bread cubes that you toast until crisp.
Mix in freeze-dried parsley, salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning. Add finely diced celery and onions for traditional flavor.
Sage gives your stuffing that classic taste. Use either gluten-free sandwich bread or cornbread as your base.
Some recipes combine both for better texture. Pour turkey broth or chicken broth over the mixture until moist but not soggy.
17. Stove Top Stuffing with Maple-Glazed Carrots
Stove Top Stuffing gets a sweet upgrade when you pair it with maple-glazed carrots. This combination adds a pleasant sweetness that balances the savory notes of the traditional stuffing.
Prepare your Stove Top Stuffing according to package directions, but use chicken broth instead of water for extra flavor. While it cooks, sauté sliced carrots in butter until they begin to soften.
Add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the carrots and continue cooking until they’re glazed and tender. Fold these maple-glazed carrots into your prepared stuffing just before serving.
The sweetness of the carrots with the savory stuffing creates a delicious contrast that will surprise your taste buds.
18. Stove Top Stuffing with Dried Cranberries and Pecans
This simple upgrade transforms basic Stove Top stuffing into a holiday-worthy side dish. Start with a box of Stove Top Stuffing Mix in any flavor you prefer—chicken, turkey, or herb all work well.
Prepare the stuffing according to package directions using butter and water or broth. Mix in about ⅓ cup each of dried cranberries and chopped pecans.
The dried cranberries add a sweet-tart flavor while pecans contribute a satisfying crunch. This combination brings warmth and texture to your stuffing.
You can prepare this enhanced stuffing as a stovetop side or use it in a stuffing bake casserole for your holiday meals.
19. Half-Homemade Stove Top Stuffing with Fresh Vegetables
You can transform ordinary boxed stuffing into a dish that tastes homemade with just a few fresh ingredients. Start with a box of Stove Top stuffing as your base.
Add diced fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, and onions sautéed in butter until tender. This adds texture and nutrition to your stuffing.
Replace the water called for on the box with chicken or vegetable broth for more flavor. Use real butter instead of margarine for richness.
Fresh herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary will elevate the taste beyond the typical boxed flavor. Bake your enhanced stuffing in the oven for a crispy top while keeping the inside moist.
20. Stove Top Stuffing with Fresh Sage and Thyme
Fresh herbs make a big difference in your stovetop stuffing. Sage and thyme create a classic flavor that reminds you of holiday meals.
Sauté onions, celery, and carrots in butter until tender. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Stir in chopped fresh sage and thyme leaves. The aroma will fill your kitchen with warmth.
Add your dried bread cubes and hot broth, then remove from heat. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes.
The bread will absorb the flavorful broth and herbs. Fluff with a fork before serving for the perfect texture.
21. Sweet Potato and Stove Top Stuffing Bake
This comforting dish combines the savory flavor of Stove Top stuffing with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. It’s a perfect side dish that brings together two favorite ingredients.
Layer thinly sliced sweet potatoes in a baking dish and top with prepared Stove Top stuffing. For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of brown sugar between layers.
Pour chicken broth over the entire dish before baking to keep everything moist. The stuffing gets slightly crispy on top while the sweet potatoes become tender.
Customize this bake by adding sautéed onions, celery, or crumbled sausage for a heartier version.
Essential Tips for Perfect Stove Top Stuffing
Making delicious stuffing on the stovetop requires attention to a few key details. With the right ingredients and proper techniques, you can elevate boxed stuffing or create homemade versions that rival traditional oven-baked varieties.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Quality bread is the foundation of great stuffing. Use day-old bread or toast fresh bread cubes in the oven until completely dry.
This helps them absorb broth without becoming mushy. For homemade versions, consider using a mix of breads like sourdough, cornbread, or whole grain for interesting texture and flavor.
If using boxed stuffing, look for varieties with minimal additives. Fresh herbs make a significant difference.
Sage, thyme, and rosemary provide classic stuffing flavors. Use fresh when possible, but dried herbs work well too—just use about 1/3 the amount.
Broth quality matters tremendously. Homemade stock provides the best flavor, but good quality store-bought broth works well.
Consider vegetable, chicken, or turkey broth depending on your meal.
Key add-ins for flavor boost:
- Sautéed celery and onions
- Mushrooms for umami
- Cooked sausage crumbles
- Fresh parsley
- Dried cranberries or chopped apples
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking is the most frequent error. Stuffing should be moist but not soggy.
Follow package directions for boxed stuffing and check frequently when making homemade versions. Using too much liquid can create a mushy texture.
Start with less broth than you think you need—you can always add more, but you can’t remove excess moisture. Sauté onions and celery until soft before adding to your stuffing mix to ensure proper flavor development and texture.
Take time to toast bread properly and let flavors develop as you cook. If you doctor boxed stuffing, give added ingredients time to incorporate their flavors.
Taste as you go. Season gradually, especially with salt, as broths and add-ins contribute their own saltiness.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Stuffing pairs beautifully with poultry dishes. Serve it alongside roasted chicken or turkey for a classic combination.
The savory herbs complement the meat perfectly. For a complete meal, serve with cranberry sauce and gravy.
The sweet-tart cranberry and rich gravy create a balanced flavor profile with the stuffing’s herbal notes. Transform leftover stuffing into breakfast by adding a fried egg on top.
The runny yolk adds richness to the savory bread mixture. Stuffing works well as a base for stuffed vegetables.
Fill halved acorn squash or bell peppers with prepared stuffing and bake until the vegetables are tender.
Creative stuffing add-ons:
- Toasted nuts for crunch
- Crumbled bacon bits
- Fresh herbs as garnish
- Grated parmesan cheese
- Drizzle of maple syrup for sweetness
You don’t have to limit stuffing to holiday meals. It makes a quick and satisfying side dish year-round, especially when paired with roasted vegetables and simple protein dishes.
Nutritional Considerations for Stove Top Stuffing
Stove Top stuffing contains about 100 calories per serving in the standard 6-ounce box. The total carbohydrate content is around 21 grams per serving, which is 8% of the daily recommended value.
Allergy-Friendly Variations
Stove Top stuffing is free from several common allergens including peanuts, shellfish, tree nuts, soy, and fish. This makes it a suitable option for many people with food allergies.
For those with gluten sensitivities, you can create gluten-free versions using gluten-free bread cubes instead of traditional bread. Rice-based or corn-based bread substitutes work well for texture and flavor absorption.
If you have a dairy allergy, use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative instead of regular butter. Most vegetable broths are naturally dairy-free, making them perfect replacements for chicken broth.
For egg allergies, you’re generally safe as traditional Stove Top stuffing doesn’t contain eggs. However, always check the ingredient list on the box to be certain.
Healthier Ingredient Swaps
To reduce sodium, use low-sodium broth or make your own salt-free vegetable stock. This simple change can cut the sodium content by up to 40%.
Boost fiber by adding finely chopped vegetables like celery, carrots, and onions. These vegetables increase nutritional value and enhance flavor and texture.
Replace white bread with whole grain bread cubes for increased fiber and nutrients. The nuttier flavor adds depth to your stuffing.
Swap butter for heart-healthy olive oil or avocado oil to reduce saturated fat. Use just enough oil to coat the bread cubes for a lighter version.
Add protein by mixing in cooked quinoa or lentils. This makes your stuffing a more complete meal option.
