If you’re looking for an effortless, flavorful stuffing recipe for your holiday meals, Mom’s Crockpot Stuffing Recipe is the perfect solution. This dish combines the traditional savory flavors of homemade stuffing with the convenience of the slow cooker. No more fussing over the oven while trying to juggle other dishes—just set it and forget it! The result is a stuffing that is crispy on the edges, tender inside, and packed with incredible flavor.
This recipe has been passed down through generations, and it’s easy to see why. It’s simple to prepare, has a perfect balance of texture, and delivers the kind of comfort food we all crave during the holidays. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or preparing a Sunday roast, this crockpot stuffing is a side dish you’ll make year after year.
Why You’ll Love Mom’s Crockpot Stuffing Recipe
Making stuffing in the crockpot might sound unconventional, but trust me—it’s a game changer! Here are a few reasons why you should try this recipe for your next holiday meal:
- Saves Oven Space: Traditional stuffing requires space in the oven, which can be hard to come by when you’re making a full holiday meal. Using a crockpot frees up valuable oven space for other dishes, making meal prep more efficient.
- Effortless Cooking: This stuffing recipe takes the stress out of meal preparation. After a quick sauté of the vegetables and seasoning, everything else just goes into the slow cooker and cooks on its own.
- Crispy Edges: A hallmark of good stuffing is the crispy edges, and the crockpot does a great job of achieving this. The heat from the slow cooker allows the stuffing to crisp up along the sides and bottom, creating the perfect contrast between crunchy and soft textures.
- Great for Feeding a Crowd: If you’re feeding a large group, this recipe makes enough to serve a crowd. You won’t have to worry about running out of stuffing!
Ingredients for Mom’s Crockpot Stuffing
Before we dive into the instructions, let’s take a look at the ingredients that make this recipe so special. These are all essential for creating the ultimate stuffing.
Butter: Adds moisture and richness to the stuffing. It also serves as the base for sautéing vegetables.
Onion: A classic ingredient in stuffing, onions bring sweetness and depth of flavor.
Celery: Celery adds crunch and a fresh, earthy note to balance the richness of the other ingredients.
Fresh Mushrooms: Mushrooms lend an earthy, savory flavor that elevates the overall taste of the stuffing.
Bread Cubes: Choose a sturdy bread, like day-old French bread or a pre-packaged stuffing mix, to provide the right texture. The bread will soak up the broth and seasonings, becoming soft but still holding its shape.
Herbs: A combination of poultry seasoning, rubbed sage, fresh thyme, and parsley adds that signature stuffing flavor. These fresh and dried herbs bring a fragrant, savory aroma to the dish.
Eggs: Eggs help to bind the ingredients together, giving the stuffing structure and texture.
Chicken Broth: Provides the liquid necessary to soften the bread cubes and create the perfect moist stuffing. You can use store-bought or homemade chicken broth.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate the flavor of the stuffing without overpowering the other ingredients.
Instructions for Making Mom’s Crockpot Stuffing Recipe
Now that you’re familiar with the ingredients, let’s break down how to make this stuffing in just a few simple steps.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, melt 1 cup of butter over medium heat until bubbly. Add the chopped onion, celery, and fresh mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté the vegetables for 7-10 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms have released their moisture.
- Stir in the fresh parsley and remove from heat.
- Prepare the Bread Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes, poultry seasoning, rubbed sage, fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together to evenly distribute the herbs and spices.
- Combine the mixtures:
- Pour the sautéed vegetable mixture over the bread cubes and stir to combine. Add the chicken broth and beaten eggs to the mixture, tossing lightly to ensure that the bread absorbs the liquid evenly.
- Transfer to the Crockpot:
- Grease your crockpot with a little butter or non-stick spray. Transfer the stuffing mixture to the slow cooker. Be sure not to pack the stuffing too tightly, as this will allow it to cook more evenly and maintain its light texture.
- Cook the Stuffing:
- Cover the crockpot and cook the stuffing on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours. Halfway through cooking, stir the stuffing once or twice to redistribute the crispy edges throughout the mixture. If you want extra crispiness, remove the lid for the final hour of cooking.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the stuffing is golden and crispy on the edges, it’s ready to serve. Dish it out and enjoy the comforting, flavorful side dish!
Tips for Perfect Crockpot Stuffing
- Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work in a pinch, fresh herbs deliver the best flavor. Fresh thyme, sage, and parsley will bring an aromatic touch to your stuffing.
- Don’t Use Canned Mushrooms: While canned mushrooms are convenient, they often have a metallic taste. Fresh mushrooms add a much better flavor to the stuffing.
- Let the Stuffing Crisp Up: If you prefer extra crispy stuffing, remove the crockpot lid during the last hour of cooking to let the moisture evaporate. Stir the stuffing a few times to bring up the crispy bits to the top.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to cook, pop it into the slow cooker and let it cook as usual.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Stuffing
If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely, considering how good this recipe is), you can store it easily.
Store: Place any leftover stuffing in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freeze: If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze the stuffing in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat: To reheat, simply warm it in the crockpot on low for an hour, or place it in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes to restore its crispiness.
Variations for Mom’s Crockpot Stuffing Recipe
While the classic version of Mom’s Crockpot Stuffing is a favorite in many households, there are plenty of ways to customize it to your tastes or dietary needs. Below are a few variations that add new flavors or cater to different preferences.
1. Gluten-Free Crockpot Stuffing
If you or your guests are gluten-sensitive, making a gluten-free version of this stuffing is simple. Just substitute the regular bread cubes with gluten-free bread. Make sure to select a gluten-free stuffing mix or use homemade gluten-free bread. You can also enhance the flavor by adding some extra fresh herbs or roasted vegetables to balance the texture.
2. Sausage Crockpot Stuffing
For an extra boost of savory flavor, consider adding sausage to your stuffing. Use either pork or turkey sausage, or even plant-based sausage if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Brown the sausage in a skillet before adding it to the stuffing mix. The sausage will infuse the stuffing with its rich, hearty flavor, making it even more comforting.
3. Vegan Crockpot Stuffing
To make this stuffing recipe vegan, simply swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative, such as olive oil or vegan butter. You can also replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Skip the eggs or substitute them with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water). This vegan version will still offer a delicious, herb-packed stuffing without any animal products.
4. Apple and Cranberry Crockpot Stuffing
For a touch of sweetness and fruitiness, try adding diced apples and dried cranberries to the stuffing. These ingredients will complement the savory flavors with a hint of sweetness, making this stuffing ideal for a holiday meal. The combination of apples, cranberries, and fresh herbs adds a festive, colorful twist to the dish.
5. Mushroom and Leek Crockpot Stuffing
If you love mushrooms, why not add more variety? Along with the standard mushrooms, you can also sauté leeks with the onions and celery for an additional layer of flavor. The combination of earthy mushrooms and sweet leeks creates a rich stuffing base that’s perfect for gourmet holiday meals.
6. Cheesy Crockpot Stuffing
If you’re a fan of melty cheese, consider incorporating cheese into the stuffing. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even parmesan are great choices. Simply sprinkle cheese between the layers of the bread mixture or mix it into the stuffing before cooking. The result will be a cheesy, creamy stuffing that’s sure to please cheese lovers.
Troubleshooting Tips for Perfect Crockpot Stuffing
Even though this recipe is designed to be easy and foolproof, here are a few tips to ensure it turns out perfect every time. These are common issues people may encounter and how to fix them.
1. Stuffing Too Dry
If your stuffing turns out too dry, there are a few things you can do. First, make sure you’re using enough broth—if the stuffing mixture feels too dry when you combine everything, add a little extra chicken broth to moisten it. Stir the stuffing during the last hour of cooking to make sure the edges don’t dry out too much. If you’re still having trouble, try adding some extra butter to make it richer and moister.
2. Stuffing Too Wet
If your stuffing ends up too soggy, it means there’s too much liquid in the mixture. This could happen if the bread was too fresh or if too much broth was added. The best way to fix this is to remove the lid of the slow cooker in the last hour of cooking. This will allow the moisture to evaporate and help the stuffing firm up. You can also add more bread to soak up the liquid if needed.
3. Stuffing Not Crispy Enough
Crispy edges are one of the highlights of a great stuffing. If your stuffing is not getting crispy, you can increase the heat by removing the lid during the final hour of cooking. This will allow the steam to escape and help the edges become golden and crispy. Stir the stuffing occasionally to make sure every piece gets some of that crispy texture.
4. Not Enough Flavor
If your stuffing lacks flavor, consider adding extra seasoning. Fresh herbs, like thyme, sage, and rosemary, can be added during the cooking process for extra depth. If you feel like it needs more punch, a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of soy sauce can enhance the savory profile. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed until it’s just right.
Why Crockpot Stuffing is a Game Changer
Incorporating the slow cooker into your stuffing recipe not only saves you time but also enhances the flavors. The slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully. Here are a few reasons why cooking stuffing in the crockpot is a great choice for busy cooks:
- Set it and Forget it: Once everything is combined and placed in the crockpot, you don’t need to babysit the stuffing. You can focus on preparing other dishes while the stuffing cooks itself.
- Maintains Moisture: The slow cooker traps moisture inside, making sure your stuffing doesn’t dry out. It also ensures that the bread soaks up all the delicious seasonings and broth.
- No Stress Over Oven Space: If you’re preparing a large holiday meal, the oven is often at full capacity. By using the crockpot, you can free up space for your main dish, like turkey or ham, and other sides.
- Perfect for Large Gatherings: If you’re feeding a crowd, the crockpot can hold a large amount of stuffing, making it perfect for big family gatherings or holiday dinners.
How to Serve Mom’s Crockpot Stuffing
Now that you’ve made this incredible stuffing, you’ll need to serve it! Crockpot stuffing is versatile and can accompany nearly any dish. Here are a few ideas for what to pair it with:
- Roast Turkey: The traditional pairing, turkey and stuffing are a match made in heaven. The stuffing soaks up the delicious turkey juices, enhancing the flavors.
- Glazed Ham: The sweetness of ham pairs wonderfully with the savory stuffing, creating a balanced meal.
- Vegetarian Casseroles: If you’re serving a vegetarian main course, stuffing is a great side dish to add heartiness and texture.
- Mashed Potatoes: A plate of creamy mashed potatoes alongside stuffing is the ultimate comfort food combination.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the stuffing, making it a great addition to your plate.
The Secret to Perfect Crockpot Stuffing
As with all recipes, the secret to making the best possible version lies in a few key techniques. While this Crockpot Stuffing recipe is already easy and flavorful, here are a few tips to help you perfect it and impress your guests.
1. Use Day-Old Bread for the Best Texture
The texture of your stuffing plays a major role in the final dish. Fresh bread can become overly soggy when combined with broth, so it’s best to use day-old bread. If you don’t have time to let your bread sit out, you can dry it in the oven. Simply cut it into cubes, spread it on a baking sheet, and bake it at 300°F for 15-20 minutes, turning it halfway through. Drying the bread helps it absorb the flavors of the broth without becoming too mushy.
2. Don’t Overmix the Ingredients
When combining the bread with the vegetable and broth mixture, be careful not to overmix. Gently toss everything together to allow the bread to absorb the flavors. Overmixing can result in a dense stuffing, so be sure to stir lightly and only until everything is combined. The key is allowing the bread to maintain its structure while soaking up the broth and seasoning.
3. Add a Touch of Stock or Broth at the End
If your stuffing looks too dry during the last hour of cooking, feel free to add a little more chicken or vegetable broth. The slow cooker can sometimes dry out some ingredients, and adding a bit more liquid at the end will ensure that your stuffing stays moist without becoming too soggy.
4. Create More Crispy Edges
If you’re someone who loves crispy stuffing edges (and who doesn’t?), make sure to remove the lid during the last hour of cooking. This allows steam to escape, which results in a crispier texture. Stir occasionally to redistribute the crispy bits, ensuring they make their way to the top. You can also spread the stuffing evenly to create an even crispier top layer.
5. Let the Stuffing Rest Before Serving
After your stuffing has finished cooking, let it rest in the crockpot for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to set and the stuffing to firm up slightly, making it easier to scoop out. If you’re serving it at a gathering, letting it rest a bit ensures that it holds together better when you scoop out portions.
Crockpot Stuffing for Any Occasion
Although Crockpot Stuffing is commonly associated with holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas, it’s an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, a special meal for friends, or even a weekday meal, this stuffing fits perfectly with a wide variety of dishes.
Perfect for Holiday Feasts
There’s no denying that stuffing is one of the most beloved side dishes at holiday meals. Crockpot Stuffing ensures that you have more room in the oven for your turkey, ham, or roasted vegetables. Plus, the slow-cooked stuffing is just as flavorful, with the added bonus of crispy edges that everyone will fight over.
Weeknight Comfort Food
Even on a regular weeknight, Mom’s Crockpot Stuffing can add a comforting touch to your dinner table. Pair it with a simple roast chicken, grilled vegetables, or a hearty soup. It’s an easy, no-fuss dish that brings warmth to any meal.
Family Gatherings and Potlucks
If you’re invited to a family gathering or a potluck, this stuffing recipe will be an instant hit. It’s easy to transport in the slow cooker and holds up well for serving in large groups. Everyone will be asking for the recipe once they taste the crispy, flavorful stuffing.
How to Adjust the Recipe for Smaller or Larger Servings
One of the best aspects of this Crockpot Stuffing recipe is its flexibility. It can easily be adjusted to suit your needs, whether you’re cooking for two or twenty.
For Smaller Batches:
If you’re making a smaller batch of stuffing, simply cut the recipe in half. Use a smaller slow cooker (3 to 4 quarts) and adjust the cooking time accordingly. For a smaller amount, you may only need 3-4 hours on high or 6 hours on low.
For Larger Batches:
If you’re expecting a big crowd or just want extra stuffing, you can double the recipe and use a larger slow cooker (6-quart or more). The cooking time will stay about the same, but it’s a good idea to check the stuffing towards the end to ensure it doesn’t overcook. Adding more bread and liquid will make the stuffing bulkier, so just keep an eye on the texture.
Pairing Mom’s Crockpot Stuffing with Main Dishes
Stuffing is often served as a side dish, but it can also elevate the main course of your meal. Here are some main dishes that pair perfectly with this savory stuffing:
1. Roast Turkey
This is the classic pairing for stuffing, especially during Thanksgiving. The stuffing absorbs the rich turkey juices and complements the bird’s savory flavors. The crispy edges of the stuffing are the perfect contrast to the tender turkey.
2. Honey Glazed Ham
The sweet, salty flavors of glazed ham and the savory stuffing create a balanced meal. The stuffing soaks up the flavors of the ham, while the crispy bits add extra texture to each bite.
3. Grilled Chicken
For a lighter meal, serve this stuffing alongside grilled chicken. The crispy stuffing and the smoky flavor of the chicken make a perfect match. You can also serve it with some roasted vegetables or a light salad to balance out the richness of the stuffing.
4. Vegetarian Main Course
If you’re serving a vegetarian meal, stuffing makes a great side dish to roasted vegetables, veggie casseroles, or even a hearty mushroom or vegetable stew. Its texture and flavor pair well with the earthy tones of vegetables.
FAQs On Mom’s Crockpot Stuffing Recipe
How to make stuffing in the slow cooker?
Making stuffing in the slow cooker is easy! Start by sautéing your vegetables (like onion, celery, and mushrooms) in butter until they’re soft. Then, mix them with dry bread cubes, seasonings, and chicken broth in a large bowl. Add beaten eggs to help bind the ingredients together. Transfer the mixture into the slow cooker and cook on high for about 4 hours or low for 8 hours. Stir occasionally during cooking for crispy edges.
Can you prepare uncooked stuffing ahead of time and refrigerate?
Yes! You can prepare uncooked stuffing ahead of time and refrigerate it. Simply assemble all the ingredients, but don’t cook it yet. Cover the stuffing tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just transfer the stuffing to the slow cooker and cook as usual. This makes it perfect for busy holiday meal prep!
Can you cook stuffing balls in a slow cooker easily?
Yes, you can cook stuffing balls in a slow cooker. Form the stuffing into balls and place them in the crockpot, making sure they’re spaced out for even cooking. Cook on low for about 4 hours or until the stuffing balls are golden and crispy on the outside. You can also drizzle them with a little extra broth or butter for added moisture and flavor.
What does adding egg to stuffing do?
Adding egg to stuffing helps bind the ingredients together. It provides structure and ensures that the stuffing holds its shape while cooking. The egg also adds richness and flavor to the stuffing, making it more cohesive and less likely to fall apart when served.
Can I make stuffing in a slow cooker without broth?
While broth is commonly used in stuffing to keep it moist and flavorful, you can technically make stuffing without it. If you prefer a drier stuffing or want to reduce sodium, you can use water as a substitute. However, using broth will enhance the flavor and make the stuffing more savory, so consider adding herbs or a splash of butter to compensate for the lack of broth.
Mom’s Crockpot Stuffing Recipe Card
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butter (for sautéing vegetables)
- 2 cups onion, chopped
- 2 cups celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 16 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 12 cups dry bread cubes (use day-old or toasted bread)
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 1/2 teaspoons rubbed sage
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Instructions:
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt 1 cup of butter over medium heat until bubbly. Add chopped onions, celery, and fresh mushrooms. Sauté for 7-10 minutes or until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms have released their liquid. Stir in the fresh parsley and remove from heat.
- Prepare Bread Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry bread cubes with poultry seasoning, rubbed sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together to evenly coat the bread with seasonings.
- Combine the Mixtures: Pour the sautéed vegetable mixture over the bread cubes and toss gently to combine. Add the chicken broth and beaten eggs to the bread mixture and stir lightly until the bread absorbs the liquid.
- Transfer to the Crockpot: Grease the inside of your slow cooker with a bit of butter or non-stick spray. Transfer the stuffing mixture to the crockpot and spread it out evenly. Do not pack the stuffing tightly to allow it to cook more evenly.
- Cook the Stuffing: Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking and help achieve crispy edges. For extra crispiness, remove the lid during the last hour of cooking.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, the stuffing should be golden and crispy on the edges. Serve alongside your favorite holiday dishes or enjoy as a hearty side for any meal.
Notes:
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the stuffing mixture a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to cook, just place it in the crockpot and cook as directed.
- For Extra Crispy Stuffing: Remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to allow some of the moisture to evaporate and create crispier edges.
- Substitute: You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version, and swap the butter for olive oil for a dairy-free option.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 282 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 63mg
- Sodium: 854mg
- Potassium: 277mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Vitamin A: 620 IU
- Vitamin C: 5mg
- Calcium: 87mg
- Iron: 2mg
- Net Carbohydrates: 24g
