Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

If you’re looking for a delightful side dish that can bring warmth and joy to any gathering, you’ve come to the right place! This Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing is not just an ordinary stuffing; it’s a celebration of flavors with sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this recipe fits perfectly on your table.

The best part? You can whip this up in just a few minutes and let your trusty Crock Pot do the hard work for you. It’s light enough for those busy weeknights but special enough to impress at family gatherings. Get ready to share this cherished recipe with your loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy preparation: Just toss everything into your Crock Pot and relax while it cooks!
• Family-friendly: The combination of cranberries and pecans makes this stuffing a hit with both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance, so you have one less thing to worry about during busy occasions.
• Delicious flavor: The medley of sweet and savory ingredients creates a comforting dish that pairs perfectly with any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this delicious stuffing!

For the Stuffing

• 12 oz. bag Sage & Onion cubed stuffing
• 1 c. leeks (chopped, or substitute green onions)
• 1/2 c. dried cranberries
• 1/2 c. golden raisins
• 1/2 c. chopped pecans

For the Liquid Mixture

• 3 c. chicken broth
• 1/2 c. butter (melted)
• 1 egg (beaten)
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. pepper
• 1 tsp. ground mustard

Variations

One of the best things about this Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing is how flexible it is! Feel free to play around with the ingredients based on what you have or your taste preferences.

• Add some spice: Toss in some chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra flavor boost.
• Go nut-free: If nuts aren’t your thing, simply leave out the pecans or substitute them with sunflower seeds.
• Make it veggie-friendly: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version!
• Try different fruits: Swap out cranberries or raisins for dried cherries or apricots for a unique twist.

How to Make Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by tossing your cubed stuffing, leeks, dried cranberries, golden raisins, and chopped pecans together in a sprayed 5-quart Crock Pot. Mixing these ingredients well ensures every bite is loaded with flavor!

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, ground mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. This mixture adds moisture and richness to the stuffing, making it irresistible.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Pour your liquid mixture over the bread mixture in the Crock Pot and gently fold everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated. This step is crucial as it allows the bread to absorb all those lovely flavors.

Step 4: Cook It Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°. The slow cooking process allows all those wonderful flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring that every bite is tender and delicious.

Enjoy making this delightful Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing! It’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home just like it has in mine.

Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

Creating the perfect stuffing in your Crock Pot is easier than you think! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh leeks and high-quality broth can make a significant difference in flavor, adding depth and richness that dried or pre-packaged ingredients may lack.
• Don’t skip the egg: The beaten egg helps bind the ingredients together, resulting in a lovely texture that keeps everything cohesive rather than crumbly.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak the salt, pepper, or even add herbs like thyme or rosemary based on your personal preference. This customization enhances the overall flavor profile to suit your family’s tastes.
• Cook low and slow: Cooking on low for 3-4 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives you that comforting texture. Rushing it on high might dry out the stuffing.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the stuffing to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking helps it firm up slightly, making it easier to serve without falling apart.

How to Serve Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

Serving your Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing can be as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to present this scrumptious side dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Cranberry sauce: A small dollop of cranberry sauce on top enhances both presentation and flavor, complementing the cranberries in your stuffing.
• Chopped pecans: A sprinkle of extra chopped pecans on top not only looks appealing but also provides an additional crunchy texture.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes provide a colorful and nutritious balance alongside your stuffing.
• Green bean casserole: This classic dish adds creaminess and flavor complexity that pairs wonderfully with the sweet and savory notes of your stuffing.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and a great vehicle for any gravy you might want to serve alongside, enhancing the meal’s heartiness.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’ll create a memorable dining experience that everyone will love! Enjoy your holiday gathering with this delightful Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing as a star attraction.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make this stuffing ahead of time, making your holiday cooking a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the stuffing cool down fully.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffing overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Stir occasionally and add a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I use different types of bread for the Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of bread. Just ensure they are cubed and dried out a bit to hold up well during cooking.

How long does it take to cook Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing?

This stuffing cooks on low for about 3-4 hours. Just keep an eye on it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°.

Can I make this Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any animal-derived ingredients like butter or egg, using plant-based alternatives instead.

Can I add more ingredients to my Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing?

Definitely! Feel free to add more vegetables like celery or carrots, or even additional spices and herbs for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this warm and comforting Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing as much as I do! It’s a wonderful addition to any holiday meal, bringing together sweet and savory flavors that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your own variations, and remember: cooking is all about sharing joy with those you love. Happy cooking!