There’s something irresistibly cozy about the aroma of stuffing and gravy wafting through your kitchen. It transports me to family gatherings filled with laughter and warmth. Just the other day, as I was reminiscing about those cherished moments, an idea sparked: why not capture that nostalgia in a single bite? Enter my Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins—a delightful twist on a classic dish that elevates your dinner table without any fuss.
These muffins are not just a game-changer; they’re an invitation to creativity. Perfectly portioned, they blend the comforting flavors of traditional stuffing with a warm, gooey center of savory gravy. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a special gathering, these muffins will impress even the pickiest eaters. Best of all, they come together in just 45 minutes, making them an easy yet satisfying option to break the monotony of everyday meals. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a standout dish!
Why You'll Love This Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins
- These Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and festive gatherings.
- The delightful combination of savory stuffing and rich gravy creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Their versatile nature allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand, ensuring they can fit any meal plan or occasion.
- With their appealing golden color and muffin shape, these treats also add a fun and beautiful touch to your table that guests will adore.
Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to whip up these cozy delights!
For the Muffins
- Stuffing mix – A 6 oz box works perfectly, bringing that classic flavor.
- Low-sodium chicken broth – 1 cup to keep the muffins moist and flavorful!
- Unsalted butter – 4 tbsp, melted for that rich, buttery base.
- Celery – 1 cup chopped adds a delightful crunch and aroma.
- Onion – 1 cup chopped for a sweet, savory taste that complements the stuffing.
For the Gravy
- Gravy – 1 cup, homemade or store-bought; adds a deliciously gooey center to these gravy-stuffed muffins!
How to Make Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin with nonstick spray to ensure easy removal of your delightful muffins. A well-greased pan is key to that beautiful golden crust!
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Sauté chopped celery and onion in a skillet over medium heat with melted butter. Allow them to cook until tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This step is where the magic of aroma begins!
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Combine the stuffing mix and chicken broth in a large bowl. Stir in your sautéed veggies and mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should feel moist but still hold together; this is how you’ll form those gorgeous muffins.
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Fill each muffin cup with the stuffing mixture, ensuring you leave some space at the top to prevent overflow during baking. A heaping tablespoon works wonders here!
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Pour gravy over each muffin until just filled. Be generous but don’t let it spill over the sides! The gravy will soak into the stuffing during baking, enhancing every bite.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes until the muffins are golden brown and the tops have a lovely crispness. Allow cooling slightly in the tin before serving to help set their shape perfectly.
Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weekdays! You can prepare the stuffing mixture and fill the muffin cups up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them covered in the refrigerator. To maintain their quality, it’s best to pour the gravy over the muffins just before baking. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven and bake them straight from the fridge for about 30-35 minutes, adjusting the time as needed since they’ll be colder. This way, you’ll enjoy a warm, flavorful dish without the fuss — just as delicious and comforting as when they’re freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins
Room Temperature: Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 2 days. They taste best warm, so consider reheating before serving!
Fridge: Keep the muffins in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for about 30 seconds for a deliciously fluffy treat.
Freezer: Freeze individual muffins for up to 3 months. Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, simply place in a microwave for 30 seconds or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Enjoy your Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins just like the first day!
What to Serve with Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins?
A comforting meal is always more delightful with the perfect pairings to enhance the flavors and textures.
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Herbed Roasted Chicken: Juicy, tender chicken seasoned with fresh herbs complements the savory stuffing muffins beautifully, creating a complete meal.
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Garlic Green Beans: Their crisp texture and bright flavor provide a refreshing contrast to the rich muffins, making every bite enjoyable.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, smooth texture of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with gravy-stuffed muffins, inviting you to indulge in comfort on your plate.
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Cranberry Sauce: A sweet-tart cranberry sauce offers a burst of freshness that cuts through the savory flavors, adding a delightful twist to your meal.
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Garden Salad: Crisp greens and seasonal veggies drizzled with a light vinaigrette add a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the muffins.
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Pumpkin Spice Muffins: For a sweet finish, these muffins echo the warm spices found in stuffing, creating a heartwarming seasonal conclusion to your dinner.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: This refreshing drink adds a touch of celebration to your meal, with its sweet notes perfectly complementing the savory dishes.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm stuffing muffins, leading to a cozy dessert experience.
Gravy-Stuffed Variations
Get ready to make these delightful muffins your own with simple twists and swaps that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Vegetarian: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and use your favorite plant-based gravy for a meat-free option. It’s just as comforting!
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Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the stuffing mix for an aromatic lift. These herbs complement the gravy perfectly, adding depth of flavor.
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Cheesy: Add shredded cheese to the stuffing before baking for a gooey, cheesy surprise. Cheddar or mozzarella works wonderfully for that melty goodness.
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Spicy Twist: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the stuffing for a kick of heat. This adds an exciting zing that’s sure to satisfy spice lovers.
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Savory Mushroom: Replace half the stuffing mix with sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Their umami notes meld beautifully with the gravy, enhancing every bite.
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Nuts for Crunch: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. They bring an unexpected texture and richness!
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Whole Grain: Use whole grain stuffing mix instead of traditional to increase fiber and nutrients while still enjoying the same comforting taste.
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Sweet Surprise: Add dried cranberries or raisins to the stuffing mix for a sweet contrast against the savory gravy. This delightful combination will surprise and please your palate!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best results with your Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins, ensure that you don’t overmix the stuffing mixture after adding the chicken broth; this can make the muffins dense instead of fluffy.
- Be sure to sauté the celery and onion until they are tender to bring out their natural sweetness and enhance the overall flavor of the muffins.
- When filling the muffin cups, leave about a quarter inch of space at the top to allow for rising without overflow during baking.
- Maintain an oven temperature of 350°F to achieve that perfect golden brown finish on top without burning the bottoms.
Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best stuffing mix for these muffins?
The best stuffing mix balances flavor with texture. Look for a mix that contains whole grains for added nutrition and flavor. Consider using a herb-based mix for an extra burst of savory goodness, or even a gluten-free option if dietary restrictions are a concern!
How should I store leftover Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins?
Absolutely! You can store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, pop them in the fridge where they will stay fresh for about 3 days. Just be sure to reheat them—30 seconds in the microwave works wonders!
Can I freeze these muffins for later use?
Very much so! To freeze, wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the microwave or a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins?
For optimal warmth and texture, heat them in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Either way, you’ll be treated to that delightful warm, gooey center all over again!
What if my stuffing mixture is too dry?
If you find your stuffing mix is a little dry, here’s a trick: Add a bit more chicken broth to moisten it up, about 1-2 tablespoons should do it! Mix gently until the moisture is evenly distributed, ensuring it holds together without turning mushy.
Are there any dietary considerations if I want to share these muffins with pets?
While these muffins are delicious for humans, be cautious sharing them with pets. The onion and garlic can be harmful to dogs and cats, so it’s best to enjoy these Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins yourself and stick to pet-safe treats for your furry friends!
Equipment
- muffin tin
- skillet
- Large bowl
Ingredients
For the Muffins
- 6 oz Stuffing mix A 6 oz box works perfectly.
- 1 cup Low-sodium chicken broth To keep the muffins moist.
- 4 tbsp Unsalted butter Melted for a rich base.
- 1 cup Celery Chopped for crunch and aroma.
- 1 cup Onion Chopped for savory taste.
For the Gravy
- 1 cup Gravy Homemade or store-bought for gooey center.
Instructions
How to Make Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin with nonstick spray.
- Sauté chopped celery and onion in a skillet over medium heat with melted butter until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine the stuffing mix and chicken broth in a large bowl. Stir in sautéed veggies and mix thoroughly.
- Fill each muffin cup with the stuffing mixture, leaving some space at the top.
- Pour gravy over each muffin until just filled, being careful not to let it spill over.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and allow cooling slightly in the tin before serving.
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