Go Back
A golden-brown baked stuffing in a casserole dish, fresh out of the oven.

Quick way to grow 4 stuffing variations

This recipe offers four quick and easy stuffing variations, perfect for any occasion. Each variation is designed to be flavorful and simple to prepare, using common ingredients for delicious results.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 2 celery ribs chopped
  • 1 onions chopped
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 10 oz dried bread crumbs
Variation 1: Classic Herb
  • 1 tsp dried sage
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/4 cup parsley fresh, chopped
Variation 2: Apple Sausage
  • 1 lb bulk sausage
  • 1 apple chopped
  • 1 tsp poultry seasoning
Variation 3: Mushroom Thyme
  • 8 oz mushrooms sliced
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
Variation 4: Cranberry Pecan
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup pecans chopped
  • 1 tsp orange zest

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking dishes

Method
 

Base Stuffing Instructions
  1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add celery and onions, cooking until softened for about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Stir in chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  3. Remove from heat and add dried bread crumbs, mixing well until thoroughly combined and moist.
  4. Divide the base stuffing mixture into four equal portions, preparing each for a different variation.
Variation 1: Classic Herb
  1. To one portion of the base stuffing, mix in dried sage, dried thyme, and fresh chopped parsley.
  2. Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Variation 2: Apple Sausage
  1. In a separate skillet, cook bulk sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon; drain any excess fat.
  2. Stir the cooked sausage, chopped apple, and poultry seasoning into the second portion of the base stuffing.
  3. Bake in a separate dish at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, until heated through and lightly browned.
Variation 3: Mushroom Thyme
  1. Sauté sliced mushrooms and minced garlic in a small amount of butter until mushrooms are tender and liquid has evaporated, about 7-10 minutes.
  2. Fold the sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and fresh chopped thyme into the third portion of the base stuffing.
  3. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crisp.
Variation 4: Cranberry Pecan
  1. Combine dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and orange zest into the final portion of the base stuffing.
  2. Bake in its own dish at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until warm and fragrant.

Notes

Adjust broth amount to achieve desired moisture for stuffing. For crispier stuffing, bake uncovered; for a softer stuffing, cover with foil for part of the baking time. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in each variation based on your preference.