Welcome to your go-to guide for creating the most delectable and effortlessly prepared stuffing (or dressing, as some prefer to call it!) right in your Crock Pot. This slow cooker recipe is a true holiday game-changer, promising a side dish that’s not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to make, freeing up precious oven space during bustling festive seasons like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter.
Easy Crock Pot Stuffing Recipe: Your Holiday Hero
Say goodbye to juggling multiple dishes in a crowded oven and hello to a perfectly cooked, consistently moist stuffing every single time. This Crock Pot stuffing recipe is so remarkably simple, you might wonder why you ever made it any other way. The most demanding part of the process involves nothing more than a bit of chopping. Once your ingredients are prepped, your slow cooker takes over, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your holiday feast or, better yet, enjoy more time with loved ones.
A common misconception when making stuffing from scratch is underestimating the volume of bread needed, or perhaps, overestimating. In my own experience, I once bought four loaves of bread, fully expecting to use them all. To my surprise, a single loaf filled my Crock Pot to the brim after being cubed! We ended up with plenty of extra bread for sandwiches, much to my family’s amusement. This anecdote serves as a friendly reminder: one good-sized loaf of bread typically yields enough cubes for a standard slow cooker, but always measure the cubes for precision.
While this recipe was initially crafted using classic white bread, at the request of family and neighbors who love its traditional flavor, I highly encourage experimenting with different bread types to elevate your stuffing. Combining white bread with sourdough or wheat bread, for instance, not only introduces a delightful medley of textures and nuanced flavors but also adds a beautiful visual depth to your dish. The subtle tang of sourdough, the hearty chew of wheat, or even the richness of brioche can transform a simple stuffing into an extraordinary culinary experience.
For those who frequently rely on the convenience of slow cookers, especially during the holidays, this Crock Pot dressing is a must-add to your repertoire. It’s an indispensable tool for time-saving and streamlining your holiday kitchen operations. If you’re looking to maximize your slow cooker’s potential this holiday season, be sure to explore our comprehensive list of Thanksgiving Crock Pot Recipes. Using your slow cooker ensures that your stuffing is not only perfectly cooked but also ready when you are, taking one major task off your plate on a busy holiday.
Key Ingredients for Your Perfect Slow Cooker Stuffing
Crafting an epic Crock Pot dressing begins with a selection of simple, yet flavorful ingredients. Below is a quick overview of what you’ll need to create this holiday classic. For precise measurements and detailed, step-by-step instructions, please refer to the complete recipe card located at the bottom of this article.
- Dry Bread Cubes: The foundation of any great stuffing. Using dry or slightly stale bread is crucial as it absorbs the broth better without becoming soggy, yielding a stuffing with ideal texture. You can use pre-packaged dried bread cubes or dry your own by leaving cubed bread out overnight or toasting it lightly in the oven.
- Celery: Adds a crucial aromatic base and a pleasant, subtle crunch. Its mild flavor complements the other ingredients beautifully.
- Onions: Another essential aromatic, providing depth of flavor and sweetness once softened in butter. Yellow or white onions work wonderfully.
- Sage: The quintessential herb for stuffing. Its earthy, slightly peppery notes are synonymous with holiday flavors and provide that classic, comforting aroma.
- Salt: Enhances all the other flavors, bringing them into balance. Always taste and adjust as needed.
- Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth: The liquid that moistens the bread and infuses the stuffing with rich flavor. Choose chicken broth for a traditional taste, or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness, moisture, and helps carry the flavors of the herbs and vegetables throughout the stuffing. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
Optional Flavor Enhancers and Add-ins:
Feel free to customize your stuffing with these delicious additions to suit your taste:
- Dried Cranberries: For a touch of tartness and sweetness, adding a festive burst of color.
- Fresh Rosemary, Fresh Sage, Parsley, Thyme: Using fresh herbs amplifies the aromatic profile significantly. Chop them finely and add them with the dry spices.
- Poultry Seasoning: A convenient blend of classic stuffing herbs, perfect if you don’t have individual spices on hand.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add an umami depth and a tender texture.
- Sausage: Cooked and crumbled sausage (pork, turkey, or plant-based) can turn your stuffing into a more hearty and protein-rich side.
- Pepper to Taste: A simple addition to round out the seasoning.
Essential Equipment for Slow Cooker Stuffing Success
Making Crock Pot stuffing is truly a breeze, and you won’t need an arsenal of specialized kitchen tools. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand to ensure a smooth and successful cooking experience:
- Crock Pot (Slow Cooker): The star of the show! We highly recommend using a slow cooker equipped with a digital timer. This feature allows you to set the cooking duration, and once the time is up, the unit automatically switches to a “warm” setting. This prevents overcooking and ensures your stuffing is perfectly moist and ready to serve without you needing to constantly monitor it – a true lifesaver on busy holiday mornings! A 6-quart oval slow cooker is often ideal for this recipe size.
- Sharp Knife or Kitchen Scissors: Essential for efficiently cutting your bread into uniform cubes and chopping vegetables. Kitchen scissors can be surprisingly quick and effective for bread.
- Large Mixing Bowl: You’ll need ample space to combine all your ingredients thoroughly before transferring them to the slow cooker.
- Non-Stick Cooking Spray: To lightly grease the inside of your Crock Pot, preventing the stuffing from sticking and making cleanup a breeze.
- Kitchen Spoon/Spatula: For mixing ingredients and serving the finished stuffing.
- Serving Dish: To beautifully present your golden-brown stuffing at the dinner table.
How to Master Crock Pot Dressing: A Simple Process
This recipe truly exemplifies the beauty of slow cooking – minimal effort for maximum flavor. While the comprehensive, printable recipe card at the end of this post provides all the detailed steps and exact measurements, here’s a quick overview to demonstrate just how straightforward it is to prepare this delicious holiday side.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, start by combining your dry bread cubes, chopped celery, onions, sage, and salt. Toss everything together until it’s thoroughly mixed. This ensures that the savory flavors and aromatic vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the bread.
- Introduce Broth and Butter: Pour in your chicken or vegetable broth, then add the melted unsalted butter. Gently fold these wet ingredients into the bread mixture until all the bread cubes are moistened. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to a dense stuffing. The goal is just to evenly coat everything.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Transfer the entire mixture into your prepared Crock Pot. Cover with the lid and cook on the LOW setting for 4 to 5 hours. The low, slow heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the stuffing to cook through evenly, achieving that ideal moist and tender texture without drying out. You’ll know it’s ready when the vegetables are tender and the stuffing is fragrant and heated through.
It’s truly that simple! With these few easy steps, you’ll have a delightful, homemade Crock Pot stuffing ready to complement your holiday meal.
Preparation and Storage Tips for Your Crock Pot Stuffing
Thoughtful preparation and proper storage are key to enjoying your Crock Pot stuffing safely and conveniently. Here’s what you need to know:
Make-Ahead:
While some recipes allow for mixing uncooked stuffing ahead of time and refrigerating it, the USDA advises against this practice. Raw dressing can be a breeding ground for bacteria if kept in the refrigerator for extended periods after mixing. To safely prepare ahead, you can chop your vegetables (celery, onions) the day before and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also cube your bread a day or two in advance and let it air dry or lightly toast it. Combine all ingredients just before you plan to cook the stuffing in the Crock Pot.
Storage:
Once cooked, your Crock Pot dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It’s crucial to refrigerate leftovers promptly. The USDA recommends that cooked food, including stuffing, should not be left unrefrigerated for more than two hours. Always ensure your stuffing cools quickly before refrigerating to inhibit bacterial growth.
Freezing / How to Freeze:
If you have leftover portions that you won’t consume within four days, freezing is an excellent option. Place the cooled stuffing in an airtight, freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Label with the date. Frozen stuffing maintains its quality for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How to Reheat:
The USDA does not recommend reheating your Crock Pot stuffing leftovers directly in the slow cooker, as it may not reach a safe internal temperature quickly enough. For best results and food safety, reheat leftovers using your microwave, oven, or stovetop, depending on the quantity and desired texture. You may find it beneficial to add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth, or a dab of butter, to moisten the stuffing before reheating, helping to restore its tender texture.
- Microwave: For individual servings, microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
- Oven: For larger quantities, place stuffing in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to prevent drying, and bake at 300-325°F (150-160°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until thoroughly heated.
- Stovetop: For a slightly crispy texture, warm stuffing in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. Add broth if it seems dry.
Recipe Variations to Personalize Your Stuffing
This Crock Pot stuffing recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing for numerous adaptations to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own!
- Bread Substitutions: The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. While a mix of white, sourdough, and wheat bread offers a fantastic flavor profile, the “best” bread is truly what you have available or prefer. You can use French bread, challah, cornbread, or even rye bread for different textures and flavors. Day-old bread works best as it absorbs moisture without becoming mushy.
- Vegetarian Option: Easily transform this into a vegetarian delight by simply swapping out chicken broth for an equally flavorful vegetable broth. Ensure all other ingredients, like butter, are vegetarian-friendly.
- Vegan Option: For a delicious vegan stuffing, use plant-based bread (check labels, as some contain dairy or eggs) and substitute unsalted butter with a high-quality vegan butter. Again, opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Gluten-Free: Gluten-free eaters can absolutely enjoy this holiday staple! Simply use your favorite brand of gluten-free bread. Ensure it’s sufficiently dry to achieve the right texture. The rest of the ingredients are typically naturally gluten-free.
- Adjusting Serving Size: This recipe is designed to yield 12 generous servings, making it perfect for most holiday gatherings. If you need a smaller batch, halve all the ingredients. For a larger crowd, you can double or triple the recipe, but you may need to use a larger slow cooker or cook in batches to ensure even cooking. Always ensure your slow cooker isn’t overfilled, typically no more than two-thirds full.
- Make It Spicy: For those who enjoy a little kick, incorporate a teaspoon or two of red pepper flakes into the mixture. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a bolder, spicier profile.
- Sugar-Free Considerations: The base recipe contains approximately 3 grams of sugar per serving, primarily from the bread itself. If you are strictly monitoring sugar intake, pay close attention to the nutritional labels of the bread you choose, as sugar content can vary widely between brands and types. Opt for low-sugar bread varieties if this is a concern.
Expert Tips for the Best Crock Pot Dressing Ever
Achieving the perfect Crock Pot stuffing is straightforward, but a few insider tips can elevate your dish from good to unforgettable:
- Optimal Mixing: If you have a generously sized mixing bowl, it’s highly recommended to combine all your ingredients—bread, vegetables, herbs, and broth—in it before transferring to the Crock Pot. This ensures everything is thoroughly and evenly coated. Only add the melted butter right before you pour the mixture into the slow cooker, or drizzle it over the top once the mixture is in the Crock Pot.
- Perfectly Dry Bread: The secret to stuffing that isn’t soggy is dry bread. If your bread isn’t already a day or two old and somewhat stale, you can dry the bread pieces ahead of time. Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet in a single layer and let them sit out at room temperature for a day. Alternatively, you can lightly toast them in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crisp but not browned.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: For even cooking and to prevent the stuffing from becoming dense or mushy, avoid overfilling your slow cooker. It’s generally best to fill it no more than two-thirds of the way to the top.
- Prevent a Dry Top Layer: Sometimes the top layer of slow cooker stuffing can dry out. To prevent this, you can lay a sheet of parchment paper directly on top of the stuffing before placing the lid. This creates a barrier that traps moisture.
- Crispy Top (Optional): If you prefer a slightly crispy top to your stuffing, you can transfer the cooked stuffing from the Crock Pot to a baking dish and broil it for a few minutes until golden brown, or bake it uncovered in a hot oven (around 400°F/200°C) for 10-15 minutes after it’s done in the slow cooker. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before the final cook, taste a small amount of the unbaked mixture (if it doesn’t contain raw meat or egg) to check the seasoning. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs as needed. Remember, flavors intensify during cooking.
What to Serve with Your Delicious Crock Pot Dressing
No festive holiday dinner featuring turkey, ham, or roast beef as the star protein is truly complete without a generous serving of dressing (or stuffing, depending on your family’s tradition)! This versatile Crock Pot version pairs beautifully with a wide array of side dishes, main courses, and even drinks and desserts to complete your holiday menu. Here are some menu planning suggestions for your next Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special holiday meal:
Delectable Sides:
- Pineapple Stuffing (for a sweet and savory contrast)
- Carrot Soufflé
- Creamed Corn Casserole
- Crock Pot Mashed Cauliflower
- Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
- Jiffy Cornbread with Sour Cream
- CrockPot Sweet Potato Casserole
- Classic Gravy (essential for moistening and enriching the stuffing)
- Green Bean Casserole (another holiday favorite)
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Magnificent Main Dishes:
- CrockPot Turkey (a fantastic way to utilize your slow cooker for the main event too!)
- Crock Pot Bourbon Maple Pork Loin
- Crock Pot Guinness Corned Beef & Cabbage
- Crock Pot Chicken & Stuffing Casserole (if you want stuffing *in* your main!)
- Crock Pot Orange Glazed Ham
- Crock Pot Coke Glazed Ham
- Bourbon Baked Ham
- Traditional Roasted Turkey
- Prime Rib Roast
Delightful Desserts:
- Eggnog Cookies
- 4 Ingredient Christmas Crack
- Easy Holiday Reindeer Chow
- Church Window Cookies
- No Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dip
- Easy Eggnog Cake with Eggnog Glaze
- Ambrosia Salad
- Chocolate Chip Cheese Ball
- Cranberry Fluff Salad
- Pumpkin Pie or Apple Pie
Festive Drinks:
- Eggnog White Russian
- Spiced Cranberry Cocktail
- Cranberry Moscow Mule
- RumChata Pudding Shots
- Pomegranate Breeze Martini
- Mulled Cherry Cider Cocktail
- Non-alcoholic Sparkling Cranberry Punch
When to Serve This Incredible Slow Cooker Stuffing
This Crock Pot stuffing is not just for Thanksgiving; its ease and deliciousness make it suitable for a variety of occasions throughout the year. It’s the ultimate versatile side dish!
- Holiday Dinners: The obvious choice! Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter feasts.
- Family Gatherings: A comforting and crowd-pleasing addition to any large family meal or Sunday supper.
- Potlucks: Easy to transport and keeps warm beautifully, making it an ideal dish to bring to a potluck.
- Dinner Parties: Impress your guests with a homemade side that tastes complex but was simple to prepare.
- Meal Prep: While best fresh, leftovers are fantastic, making it a good option for delicious weekday meals following a holiday.
More Great Slow Cooker Holiday Recipes to Explore
Unlock the full potential of your slow cooker this holiday season with these additional hassle-free recipes. They complement our Crock Pot Stuffing perfectly and will help you create a memorable meal with minimal stress.
- CrockPot Turkey
- CrockPot Corn Pudding
- CrockPot White Hot Chocolate
- Crock Pot Ham
- Crock Pot Candied Sweet Potatoes
- Crock Pot Glazed Carrots
- CrockPot Sweet Potato Casserole
Don’t forget to check out all of our dedicated Crock Pot Thanksgiving Recipes and our extensive collection of vegetarian Crock Pot meals for even more inspiration!
If you love discovering new recipes, explore our copycat recipes, indulge in our dessert recipes, and find more convenient dishes in our main Crock Pot Recipes section.
Stay connected with Tammilee Tips for all our latest recipe posts by following us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter.
Should your Crock Pot be in use, or if you simply fancy a change, delightful oven or stovetop options include the always delicious Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole and the comforting Cracker Barrel Carrots.
Crock Pot Stuffing Recipe
20
4
4 20
12
271kcal
Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 14-15 cups Bread Cubes (about 1 loaf of bread)
- 3 cups Celery (chopped)
- 1 ½ cups Onions (chopped)
- 1 ½ Teaspoon Sage Spice
- 1 Teaspoon Salt
- 1 ½ cup Chicken Broth
- 1 ¼ cup Butter (melted)
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients minus the butter until well mixed.
- Toss with melted butter.
- Cook on low for 4-5 hours.
Kitchen Tools
- Slow cooker
- Vegetable Chopper
- Large Mixing Bowl
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 180
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Recipe originally shared on September 7, 2015. Updated October 2020, November 2022.