Are you looking for a simple yet incredibly flavorful side dish to elevate your next holiday dinner or weeknight meal? Look no further! This recipe takes a classic boxed cornbread stuffing mix and transforms it into a truly delicious and satisfying dish with minimal effort. It's perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick and easy side that still tastes homemade. This recipe is a testament to how even the simplest ingredients can create something truly special with just a few clever additions. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 box (6 ounces) cornbread stuffing mix
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk or 2% recommended)
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your stuffing cooks evenly and achieves a beautiful golden-brown color.
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Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped celery and onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This simple step adds depth of flavor and texture to your stuffing.
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Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cornbread stuffing mix, sautéed vegetables, poultry seasoning, sage, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
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Add the liquids: Gradually add the chicken broth and milk to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Don't overmix; a slightly moist consistency is ideal. Overmixing can result in a dense stuffing.
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Bake: Pour the stuffing mixture into a greased 8x8 inch baking dish or a similar sized oven-safe dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
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Rest and serve: Once baked, let the stuffing rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve without it crumbling apart.
Tips for the Best Boxed Cornbread Stuffing:
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Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and sage significantly enhance the flavor profile compared to dried herbs. If you don't have fresh, use 1 teaspoon of dried parsley and 1/2 teaspoon of dried sage.
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Customize your seasonings: Feel free to experiment with other seasonings, such as thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick. This is your chance to tailor the stuffing to your personal preferences.
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Add protein: For a heartier stuffing, incorporate cooked sausage, ground meat, or shredded chicken. Simply brown your chosen protein before adding the vegetables.
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Don't overmix: As mentioned before, overmixing can lead to a dense stuffing. Mix just until the ingredients are combined and moist.
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Check for doneness: Use a toothpick or a knife to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, your stuffing is ready.
Variations:
- Cranberry Cornbread Stuffing: Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries to the stuffing mix for a sweet and tart twist.
- Wild Rice Cornbread Stuffing: Incorporate 1/2 cup of cooked wild rice for added texture and nutty flavor.
- Vegetarian Cornbread Stuffing: Omit the poultry seasoning and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used. For a precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients. However, generally, you can expect a serving to contain moderate amounts of carbohydrates and calories, with a good source of fiber.
This easy boxed cornbread stuffing recipe is a delightful addition to any meal. The simple steps and customizable options make it a perfect choice for both beginner and experienced cooks alike. Enjoy!