Are you tired of the same old Thanksgiving stuffing? This year, ditch the traditional dish and try these delightful Stuffing Muffins! They're individual portions of savory, herby goodness, perfect for a holiday gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner. These easy recipes are not only delicious but also a fantastic way to add a fun, interactive element to your table. Get ready to elevate your Thanksgiving game (or any weeknight dinner!) with this healthy meal, perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 cups cubed bread (day-old bread works best!)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin. This simple step ensures your muffins bake beautifully and release easily.
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. Stir in the mushrooms, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the mushrooms have released their moisture and are tender. This step builds a flavorful base for your stuffing.
Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, bread cubes, chicken broth, parsley, and beaten egg. Gently toss to ensure everything is evenly moistened. Don't overmix; a few slightly dry spots are okay. Homemade cooking often involves a bit of intuition – trust your senses!
Fill the muffin tins: Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full with the stuffing mixture. This leaves room for expansion during baking.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and heated through. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Tips for the Best Stuffing Muffins:
- Bread choice matters: Day-old bread is ideal because it absorbs the liquid better than fresh bread. Experiment with different types of bread for variations in flavor and texture.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing can make the stuffing dense. Gently toss the ingredients until just combined.
- Customize your herbs: Feel free to add other herbs and spices to your liking. Rosemary, marjoram, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes would be delicious additions.
- Add some crunch: Toasted nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, would add a delightful crunch to your stuffing muffins.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the stuffing mixture a few hours ahead of time and bake it when ready. Store leftover muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Cranberry Stuffing Muffins: Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries to the stuffing mixture for a sweet and tart twist.
- Sausage Stuffing Muffins: Brown 1 pound of sausage before adding the vegetables for a heartier stuffing.
- Vegetarian Stuffing Muffins: Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the sausage.
Nutritional Information (per muffin, approximate):
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fat: 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
These delicious and easy-to-make stuffing muffins are perfect for any occasion. They offer a fun and convenient way to enjoy this classic Thanksgiving side dish. Enjoy!