Introduction

Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins are a delightful twist on traditional stuffing. These muffin-sized portions offer not only convenience but also maximum flavor, making them an irresistible addition to any meal.

Imagine soft, savory stuffing combined with rich, flavorful gravy all baked into a fun, portable muffin shape. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, ensuring that every bite is bursting with taste.

Whether you serve them alongside a holiday roast or as a unique side dish for weeknight dinners, these stuffing muffins are sure to impress both family and guests alike.

Ingredients

4 cups bread cubes
The base of your stuffing, bread cubes provide structure. A mix of stale bread enhances texture, creating a fluffy interior while absorbing flavors.
1 cup celery, diced
Celery adds crunch and a fresh, earthy flavor. It balances the richness of the gravy and stuffing, improving the overall taste and texture.
1 cup onion, diced
Onions lend a sweet, aromatic base to the stuffing. When sautéed, they caramelize slightly, enhancing the flavors and adding depth.
1/2 cup unsalted butter
Butter enriches the stuffing with moisture and flavor, helping to bind the ingredients together while adding a creamy taste.
2 teaspoons dried sage
Sage introduces a warm, herbal note, which is traditional in stuffing. It pairs beautifully with the gravy and enhances the overall flavor profile.
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Thyme adds a subtle earthy essence, balancing the other herbs and spices. It enhances the savory notes of the stuffing.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Black pepper provides a hint of spice, enhancing the savory flavor without overpowering the dish.
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Broth moisten the bread crumbs and imbues flavor throughout the stuffing muffins, ensuring they are neither dry nor bland.
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Eggs act as a binding agent, holding the muffin together. They add structure and a richer flavor, enhancing the overall texture.
1 cup gravy (prepared or store-bought)
Gravy adds a luscious, savory filling to each muffin. Its richness infuses the stuffing with flavor, creating a delicious surprise in every bite.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Preheating the oven ensures that your stuffing muffins cook evenly. This step is crucial for achieving a golden-brown exterior and a well-cooked interior.

Step 2: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and celery, sautéing until softened, about 5–7 minutes.

Sautéing the onions and celery develops their flavors and textures. This step releases their natural sweetness, which will enhance the overall taste of your muffins.

Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, sage, thyme, and black pepper.

This mixture forms the flavorful base of your stuffing muffins. Combining the ingredients ensures that the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the bread, enhancing each bite.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and broth. Pour this mixture over the bread cube mixture, mixing well to combine.

This step binds the ingredients together, creating a cohesive mix that will hold its shape as it bakes. Ensuring the bread is well moistened prevents dry muffins.

Step 5: Fold in the gravy gently until evenly distributed, taking care not to overmix.

Incorporating the gravy adds the delicious, rich filling to your muffins. Be gentle to maintain the bread's texture; overmixing can result in dense muffins.

Step 6: Grease a muffin tin and spoon the stuffing mixture into each cup, filling them about three-quarters full.

Properly greasing the tin ensures easy removal of the muffins after baking. Filling the cups generously allows for a nice rise and the opportunity for a delightful crust.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Baking until golden ensures a crispy exterior while achieving a moist, flavorful interior. The toothpick test is a reliable method to check for doneness.

Step 8: Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Cooling in the pan allows the muffins to firm up slightly, making them easier to handle. The wire rack helps air circulate around them so they stay crisp.

Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins step photo

Personalize Your Stuffing Muffins

One of the joys of making gravy-stuffed stuffing muffins is how customizable they are. You can incorporate ingredients like diced apples for a touch of sweetness, or crumbled sausage for added heartiness. Consider mixing in roasted herbs or vegetables to match your personal taste and the season. The combination of flavors can turn a simple dish into something uniquely yours.

Perfect Pairings for Gravy-Stuffed Muffins

These stuffing muffins shine when paired with a variety of main dishes. They complement roasted meats beautifully, adding a sweet and savory balance to dishes like turkey or pork. For a vegetarian option, serve them alongside sautéed greens or a hearty vegetable stew, creating a satisfying meal full of contrasting flavors and textures.

Adapting for Dietary Preferences

If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, these muffins can be easily adapted. For gluten-free diners, substitute the bread with gluten-free options, ensuring to maintain the recommended bread texture. Likewise, using vegetable broth and plant-based gravy opens this delightful dish to those avoiding animal products, without sacrificing taste.

FAQs

What if my stuffing muffins come out too dry?

If the muffins are dry, it may be a sign that they did not absorb enough moisture. Consider adding a bit more broth or gravy to the mixture before baking next time, ensuring the bread cubes are fully soaked.

Can I use leftover stuffing for this recipe?

Yes, if you have leftover stuffing, simply add gravy, eggs, and any extra moistening liquid as needed to adapt it for muffin baking.

How do I prevent the bottoms from burning?

To prevent burning, ensure you're using a well-greased muffin tin and check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer. Lowering the temperature slightly may also help if your oven runs hot.

What can I do if my gravy is too thick?

If your gravy is too thick, you can thin it out by whisking in a little broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency before adding it to the muffins.

Is there a specific type of bread I should use?

While any bread works, day-old bread or a loaf with a denser texture, like sourdough or whole grain, tends to hold up better for stuffing.

Should I use homemade or store-bought gravy?

Both options work beautifully. Homemade gravy tends to be fresher and more flavorful, but store-bought offers convenience. Choose based on your time and preference.

Can I add vegetables to the stuffing muffins?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like carrots, peppers, or mushrooms can enhance flavor and texture. Just ensure they are cooked first and add them to the mixture.

Conclusion

Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins are more than just a convenient side; they are a culinary experience in each bite. The combination of flavors, textures, and the hidden gravy surprises everyone at the table.

With endless possibilities for customization and pairing, these muffins can become a cherished recipe in your home. Embrace the creativity and enjoy them as part of your next gathering or family meal.

Recipe Card