Are you ready to elevate your meatloaf game? Forget dry, bland stuffing – we're diving into the world of delicious, stovetop stuffing that's perfectly complemented by juicy meatloaf. This recipe is not only incredibly flavorful but also surprisingly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that tastes far better than anything store-bought. This recipe is one of the best recipes for adding that extra layer of comfort and deliciousness to your classic meatloaf. Let's get started!
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 black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 4 cups bread cubes (day-old bread works best!)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Mushrooms and Herbs: Add the sliced mushrooms, sage, thyme, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released their moisture and softened.
- Incorporate Bread Cubes: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the bread cubes, stirring gently to ensure they are evenly moistened. Reduce heat to low.
- Simmer and Fluff: Cover the skillet and simmer for about 5-10 minutes, or until the bread cubes have absorbed most of the liquid and are tender. Remove the lid and fluff the stuffing with a fork.
- Finishing Touches: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Stove Top Stuffing:
- Bread Choice: Day-old bread is ideal as it absorbs the liquid better than fresh bread. If using fresh bread, consider lightly toasting it before adding it to the skillet.
- Liquid Adjustment: If the stuffing seems too dry, add a little more chicken broth, a tablespoon at a time. If it's too wet, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs! Rosemary, marjoram, or even a little bit of garlic powder would be delicious additions.
- Make it Ahead: This stovetop stuffing can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Variations for Your Stove Top Stuffing:
- Spicy Stuffing: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Cheesy Stuffing: Increase the Parmesan cheese or add other cheeses like cheddar or Gruyere.
- Sausage Stuffing: Brown 1/2 pound of sausage before adding the onions and celery for a heartier stuffing. Make sure to drain off any excess grease.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
- Protein: Around 5-7 grams
- Carbohydrates: Around 25-30 grams
- Fat: Around 5-8 grams
This delicious and easy stove top stuffing recipe is perfect for adding a flavorful and satisfying element to your next meatloaf. It's a great way to turn a classic dish into a truly memorable meal. Enjoy!