🛒 Ingredients
- 🌾 8 cups cubed bread (day-old or toasted)
- 🥓 1/2 cup cooked bacon or sausage, crumbled (optional)
- 🧅 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 🥕 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 🍎 1 small apple, diced (optional, for a sweet twist)
- 🌿 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
- 🌿 1 tsp dried sage
- 🌿 1 tsp dried thyme
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🧈 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 🥣 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 🥚 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 🧂 Salt and black pepper, to taste
🍳 Instructions
Prepare the Stuffing Mixture
- Toast the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until dry and lightly golden. Let cool.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and garlic, and sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened. If using, stir in the diced apple and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix the toasted bread cubes with the cooked vegetables, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the crumbled bacon or sausage, if desired.
- Add the Liquid:
- Pour the broth over the mixture, tossing gently to moisten. Stir in the beaten eggs to help bind the stuffing together.
Bake the Muffins
- Prepare the Muffin Tin:
- Grease a standard muffin tin with non-stick spray or butter.
- Fill and Bake:
- Spoon the stuffing mixture into the muffin tin, packing it lightly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crisp.
Serve and Enjoy
- Cool Slightly:
- Let the muffins cool for 5 minutes before removing them from the tin. Serve warm.
💡 Tips and Variations
- 🥖 Bread Options: Use sourdough, cornbread, or whole-grain bread for different textures and flavors.
- 🌰 Add-Ins: Incorporate dried cranberries, toasted nuts, or shredded Parmesan for festive flair.
- 🌿 Herbal Boost: Add fresh rosemary or chives for an aromatic twist.
- 🧈 Crispier Edges: For extra crispiness, brush the tops with melted butter before baking.
🍹 Serving Suggestions
Pair these stuffing muffins with roasted turkey, gravy, or mashed potatoes for a complete holiday feast. They also make a great addition to brunch or as a snack on their own.
What Makes This Recipe Special
Festive Stuffing Muffins take traditional stuffing to the next level with their individual portions and crispy edges. Perfect for holiday gatherings or potlucks, they’re a fun and easy way to enjoy a beloved classic with a modern twist.
