Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy side dish to impress your family or friends, then this Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing is just what you need! This recipe combines the sweetness of dried cranberries with the crunchy texture of pecans, creating a delightful balance that pairs perfectly with any holiday meal or cozy dinner. The best part? You can toss everything into your Crock Pot and let it do all the work for you. It’s a wonderful choice for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, ensuring you have more time to enjoy the company around the table.

This stuffing has become a beloved staple in my home. Its comforting flavors and simple preparation make it a go-to dish that everyone always asks for. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it deserves a spot on your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this stuffing ready in no time!
• Family-friendly flavors: The combination of sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans is sure to win over both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance! Just pop it in the Crock Pot while you focus on other dishes.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this stuffing fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is half the fun! They are all simple, wholesome items that create an irresistible flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need for your Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing:

For the Stuffing

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

For the Mixture

• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup butter (melted)
• 1 egg (beaten)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have at home or what flavors your family enjoys. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add some herbs: Toss in freshly chopped parsley or thyme for an extra burst of flavor.
• Incorporate veggies: Try adding diced celery or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.
• Switch up the nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts or almonds would work wonderfully too!
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread cubes instead of traditional stuffing to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients

Start by tossing together your cubed stuffing, leeks, dried cranberries, golden raisins, and chopped pecans in a sprayed 5-quart Crock Pot. Mixing these ingredients first ensures every bite will be packed with flavor and texture.

Step 2: Mix the Liquid Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, ground mustard, salt, and pepper. This mixture binds everything together while adding moisture. Pour this over your bread mixture in the Crock Pot and gently fold everything together so that each piece of bread gets coated well.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your Crock Pot and cook on low for 3-4 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°. Cooking it slowly allows all those flavors to meld beautifully together—trust me; the wait will be worth it!

Now you’re ready to serve up this delicious side dish! Enjoy every flavorful bite of your Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing!

Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

Making this stuffing is a breeze, but a few simple tips can elevate your dish to new heights!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh leeks and quality broth enhances the flavor profile of your stuffing, making it more aromatic and delicious.

• Let It Soak: Allowing the bread mixture to sit for about 10-15 minutes before cooking helps the flavors meld together and ensures every bite is moist and flavorful.

• Cook on Low: Cooking on low for 3-4 hours allows the stuffing to develop a rich flavor and perfect texture. Avoid cooking on high, as it may dry out the dish.

• Add More Crunch: If you love texture, consider adding chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds along with the pecans for an extra layer of crunch!

• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the mix. They will bring an aromatic brightness that complements the cranberries beautifully.

How to Serve Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

This stuffing is not only delicious but also versatile! It’s perfect as a side dish at holiday gatherings or any time you want to impress your guests. Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.

• Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of cranberry sauce on top can enhance the sweetness and make for a lovely presentation.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized Brussels sprouts or roasted carrots provide a sweet and savory balance, complementing the stuffing perfectly.

• Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds offer a crunchy contrast and add elegance to your meal.

• Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potatoes are not only comforting but their sweetness pairs wonderfully with the tartness of cranberries in the stuffing.

Feel free to mix and match these serving suggestions to create a hearty, festive meal that everyone will enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of the holidays without the last-minute stress. You can prepare it a day in advance or store leftovers for a quick side dish later.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cool the stuffing completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the crock pot on low until heated through, about 1-2 hours.
• Alternatively, heat in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this delicious stuffing, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

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

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for Sage & Onion cubed stuffing, feel free to experiment with other bread types such as cornbread or whole wheat bread. Just ensure they are cubed and dried out slightly for the best texture.

How long can I keep leftover Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing?

Leftover stuffing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Just remember to cool it completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.

Can I make Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing without butter?

Yes! You can substitute melted coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative to keep this dish vegan-friendly while maintaining its rich flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing as much as I do! It’s a delightful addition to any holiday table, bringing together sweet and savory flavors that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients, and remember that cooking is all about joy and sharing good food with those we care about. Happy cooking!