Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

If you’re looking for a delicious side dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then look no further than this Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing. This recipe has become a favorite in my home because it’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The sweet bursts of cranberries combined with the crunchy pecans create a delightful contrast that complements any meal, especially during the holidays or family gatherings.

What I love most about this stuffing is how effortless it is to throw together. You can let your trusty Crock Pot do all the work while you focus on other dishes or simply enjoy time with loved ones. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive celebration, this stuffing is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful stuffing ready to go, perfect for even novice cooks!
• Family-Friendly: The taste of sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans will win over even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it in advance and let the slow cooker do the magic while you tackle other tasks.
• Versatile Side Dish: This stuffing pairs beautifully with turkey, chicken, or vegetarian meals, making it suitable for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some wholesome ingredients that come together to make this delightful stuffing. These are all simple items you can find at your local grocery store.

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 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add More Nuts: Swap in walnuts or almonds for an extra crunch and different flavor profile.
• Go Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based option.
• Herb It Up: Sprinkle in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added aroma and taste.
• Fruit Swap: Try using dried cherries or apricots instead of cranberries for a different twist!

How to Make Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

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

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, ground mustard, salt, and pepper. This mixture binds everything together and adds moisture to your stuffing—so don’t skip this step! Pour it over the bread mixture in the Crock Pot and gently fold it all together.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Now comes the best part! Set your Crock Pot to low and let it cook for 3-4 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°. This slow cooking allows all those wonderful flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day—like magic!

Enjoy serving this delightful Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing as part of your next meal! It’s sure to become a cherished part of your family traditions too.

Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

Creating the perfect stuffing can be a breeze with a few helpful tips!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh leeks and high-quality broth will enhance the flavor of your stuffing, making it more delicious and aromatic.

• Adjust moisture levels: If you prefer a drier stuffing, reduce the amount of broth slightly. Conversely, if you like it moister, feel free to add a splash more broth to achieve your desired consistency.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add in your favorite herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for an extra layer of flavor that complements the sweetness of the cranberries and the crunch of the pecans.

• 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 scoop out and serve.

• Utilize leftovers creatively: If you have any leftover stuffing, consider using it as a filling for stuffed peppers or even mixing it into an omelet for a delightful breakfast option.

How to Serve Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

This festive stuffing can be presented in various delightful ways that will impress your family and guests alike!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing the rich flavors beautifully.
• Cranberry sauce: A dollop of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce on top provides an additional touch of sweetness and pairs perfectly with the stuffing.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These caramelized little gems offer a crispy contrast and their slight bitterness balances out the sweetness from the stuffing.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that complements the stuffing’s texture without overpowering its flavors.
• Green bean almondine: The crispiness of green beans sautéed with almonds adds both elegance and crunch to your plate, enhancing the overall meal experience.
• Herbed quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with seasonal vegetables and fresh herbs adds a nutritious element while being refreshing alongside the hearty stuffing.

With these serving suggestions, your Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing will not only shine as a star dish but also fit seamlessly into your holiday spread!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time, making your holiday gatherings 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 fully before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffing overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the stuffing in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that may arise while preparing this comforting dish.

Can I make Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this delicious stuffing a day or two in advance. Just store it properly in the fridge and reheat when needed.

How long does Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing last?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will last for up to 3 days. If you freeze it, it can be kept for about 2 months.

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Yes! Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds, depending on your preference.

Is it necessary to use chicken broth?

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can easily swap chicken broth with vegetable broth without losing flavor!

Can I add more fruits to my stuffing?

Definitely! Dried apricots or figs would complement the cranberries beautifully and add an extra layer of sweetness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making this Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing as I am! It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will surely impress your family and friends at any gathering. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe, and I can’t wait for you to try it out! Happy cooking!

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