Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish to elevate your next dinner party or weeknight meal? Look no further! This recipe for easy stove top stuffing is a crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly simple to make. Forget the fuss of oven-baked stuffing; this stovetop version is ready in minutes and delivers all the comforting flavors you crave. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delicious dish that's both satisfying and healthy. This recipe is ideal for those seeking quick dinner ideas or simply looking to add a flavorful element to their meals. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 6 cups cubed bread (day-old bread works best!)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup butter, melted (optional, for extra richness)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until they release their moisture and start to brown slightly. This step builds a flavorful base for your stuffing.
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Add the bread: Stir in the cubed bread, ensuring it's evenly coated with the vegetables and oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the bread to slightly toast.
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Incorporate the broth and seasonings: Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent clumping. Add the sage, thyme, and black pepper. Continue to stir until the bread is fully moistened and the broth is absorbed. If you prefer a richer flavor, add melted butter now.
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Simmer and fluff: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the stuffing is heated through and the flavors have melded. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Season with salt to taste. Serve immediately alongside your favorite main course.
Cooking Tips for the Best Stove Top Stuffing:
- Bread Choice: Using day-old bread is key for optimal texture. Fresh bread will become too soggy. If you only have fresh bread, lightly toast the cubes before adding them to the skillet.
- Broth Selection: Feel free to experiment with different broths. Beef broth adds a savory depth, while vegetable broth makes it a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Herb Variations: Get creative with your herbs! Rosemary, marjoram, or even a sprinkle of poultry seasoning would all be delicious additions.
- Add-ins: Elevate your stuffing with additions like chopped apples, cranberries, sausage, or pecans. The possibilities are endless!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a recipe yielding 8 servings and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams
- Fat: 8-10 grams
This easy stove top stuffing recipe is a fantastic addition to any meal. It's a quick, healthy, and delicious side dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!