Are you ready to elevate your holiday feast with a side dish that will leave your guests raving? Look no further than this Traditional Bread Stuffing made effortlessly in a crock pot! With its savory blend of buttery bread, aromatic sage, and the perfect touch of veggies, this recipe is not only simple to prepare but also yields a mouthwatering stuffing that will complement any main course. Imagine the delightful aroma wafting through your home as it cooks to perfection while you focus on other holiday preparations. Ready to discover the secret to the ultimate comfort food? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the bread by cutting it into 1-inch cubes. Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and let them air dry for 1-2 hours to ensure they're slightly stale, which helps absorb the flavors better.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and celery, sautéing until the vegetables become soft and translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the crock pot. Add the dried bread cubes, sage, salt, and pepper. Gently mix the ingredients to distribute evenly.
- Slowly pour the chicken broth over the bread mixture, ensuring all bread cubes are moistened but not completely saturated. Gently stir to combine.
- Cover the crock pot and set to low heat. Cook for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Check the stuffing's moisture level periodically. If it seems too dry, add a little more chicken broth. If too wet, leave the lid slightly ajar during the last hour of cooking.
- The stuffing is ready when it's heated through, the edges are slightly crispy, and it has a moist, tender texture.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Fluff with a fork and serve hot as a side dish.
Tips
- Stale Bread is Key: For the best texture, make sure to let your bread cubes dry out for 1-2 hours before cooking. This helps them absorb the delicious flavors without becoming mushy.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or mushrooms to enhance the flavor profile. You can also experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.
- Monitor Moisture Levels: Keep an eye on the stuffing as it cooks. If it seems too dry, add a splash more chicken broth; if it’s too wet, leave the lid slightly ajar during the last hour to allow some moisture to escape.
- Stir Occasionally: Gently stir the mixture every hour to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking to the sides of the crock pot.
- Taste Test Before Serving: Always taste your stuffing before serving to adjust the seasoning. A pinch more salt or pepper can make a world of difference!
- Perfect Pairing: This stuffing pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, chicken, or even a hearty vegetarian main dish, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
