Welcome to a culinary delight that combines the festive flavor of Thanksgiving with the convenience of individual servings—Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins! These flavorful muffins are not just visually appealing; they’re crispy on the outside and boast a surprisingly creamy, gravy-filled center. As you bite into these delectable morsels, the rich, savory sausage gravy gives way to a fluffy stuffing made from bread cubes and fresh herbs. This recipe transforms traditional stuffing into a fun and unique presentation that makes it perfect for any holiday gathering or family dinner. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time with loved ones rather than being trapped in the kitchen!
What makes these stuffing muffins truly special is the ‘hidden’ element of gravy that sets them apart from regular stuffing. This delightful twist not only enhances their flavor but also adds a creamy richness that complements the spices and delicate textures of the stuffing mix. With the holidays approaching, these muffins can be the star of your feast, functioning as a side dish or even finger food that will impress your guests. They also allow everyone to enjoy stuffing without having to pass around a large bowl. Instead, every guest gets their own beautifully-shaped muffin, perfectly portioned and ready to enjoy. Read on to discover why you’ll absolutely love making these Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins.
Why You’ll Love This Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins
- Unique Presentation: These muffins make stuffing more interactive and visually appealing, ideal for any festive occasion.
- Flavorful Gravy Surprise: The hidden sausage gravy inside adds a wonderful burst of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
- Easy to Prep Ahead: Make the gravy in advance and assemble the muffins right before baking, saving you time on the big day.
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite ingredients or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
- Kid-Friendly: These muffins are a hit with kids and adults alike, making them a perfect dish for family gatherings.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
To create these delicious Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins, start by gathering your ingredients and preparing your kitchen workspace. A clean and organized kitchen is the key to an enjoyable cooking experience. Make sure to have a large mixing bowl for combining the bread cubes, herbs, and broth mixture as well as a skillet for sautéing the vegetables. You will need a 12-cup muffin tin, which should be greased generously to prevent sticking. A whisk is handy for beating the eggs, and a ladle can be useful for evenly distributing the gravy into the muffin wells.
Before you begin, take the time to chop the celery and onion, and set all your ingredients within arm’s reach. This not only speeds up the cooking process but also keeps you organized. Having your oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) allows for immediate baking, which is crucial after the assembly step to maintain the muffins’ texture. To ensure the gravy is perfectly crafted, it’s best to chill it for at least 2 hours before you start assembling the muffins. This ensures it thickens appropriately, providing that delightful surprise with each bite.
Ingredients
- 6 cups bread cubes or stuffing mix
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 ½ cups chicken or turkey broth
- 5 tbsp butter, divided
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tsp chopped fresh sage
- ½ tsp poultry seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ lb sausage (Italian or breakfast)
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Gravy
Begin by making the delicious sausage gravy that will take these muffins to the next level. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the sausage and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally. This process not only imparts flavor but also helps to create a nice texture. After the sausage is nicely browned, sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes. This helps to eliminate the raw flour taste and gives your gravy a roux-like base. Gradually pour in the milk while continuously stirring to create a smooth mixture. Let it thicken, season with cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Once done, transfer your gravy to a bowl, cover it, and chill it for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
While the gravy chills, it’s time to begin prepping the stuffing mix. Using the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbly, add the chopped onion and celery. Cook until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the poultry seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of your stuffing. Afterward, pour in the chicken or turkey broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. This adds moisture and richness to your stuffing, which is essential for that perfect muffin texture.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes or stuffing mix with the sautéed onion and celery mixture. Add the chopped parsley, thyme, sage, and the beaten eggs, mixing everything until all the ingredients are well coated. The key here is to ensure that the bread cubes absorb all the flavorful broth, which will help bind the muffins together. When mixed thoroughly, the stuffing should be moist but not soggy.
Step 4: Assemble the Muffins
Now it’s time to fill the muffin tins! Grease your 12-cup muffin pan generously to prevent sticking. Fill each muffin cup with the stuffing mixture until it’s about halfway full, pressing down gently to form a solid base. Using your thumb or index finger, create a deep well in the center of each muffin cup. This is where you’ll add the chilled gravy. Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of the chilled gravy into each well. Make sure to cover with additional stuffing to seal in the gravy completely, creating a delicious surprise for when you bite into the muffin. Finish this step by brushing the tops of the muffins with the remaining melted butter for a beautiful golden finish.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Place the muffin tin into your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and crisp. The smell of these muffins baking will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma! Once done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for approximately 5 to 10 minutes. This cooling period is essential as it helps solidify the muffins, making them easier to remove. Gently lift them out of the muffin pan using a fork or spatula, and serve warm as a delightful side dish or snack.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute the sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or add cooked bacon for a smoky flavor.
- Vegetables: Enhance the flavor by adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the sautéed vegetables.
- Spices: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or oregano for a unique flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- For a crispier outside, consider baking the muffins for an additional 5 minutes at a higher temperature.
- If using gluten-free bread, ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free to accommodate dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
- These muffins pair wonderfully with cranberry sauce on the side for a festive touch.
- Serve them alongside roasted meats such as turkey or pork for a complete holiday meal.
Tips
- Chilling the gravy is essential for the best texture and to keep it from spilling out during baking.
- Feel free to prepare the ingredients a day in advance; assemble the muffins just before baking for maximum freshness.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes (including chilling)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 180 per muffin
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
FAQs
Can I make these muffins in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the muffins up to the point of baking and refrigerate them. Just ensure to add the gravy right before baking for best results.
What can I use instead of sausage?
You can substitute the sausage with ground turkey or even a meat alternative for a vegetarian option.
Can I freeze stuffing muffins?
Absolutely! These muffins freeze very well. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven before serving.
What other fillings can I use?
Feel free to get creative! Try adding different types of cheese, vegetables, or even dried fruits for a unique twist.
Conclusion
These Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins are not only delicious but also a fantastic way to elevate your holiday meals. Their delightful combination of crispy edges and creamy centers will surely win over both family and friends. As you prepare for your next gathering, make sure to add these muffins to your menu for an unforgettable treat. I encourage you to share your experiences with this recipe in the comments below, try out variations that suit your taste, and don’t forget to pass this recipe along to others. Happy cooking and enjoy the flavors of the season!
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Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
Description
Deliciously crispy on the outside with a creamy gravy surprise inside, perfect for holidays!
Ingredients
- 6 cups bread cubes or stuffing mix
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 ½ cups chicken or turkey broth
- 5 tbsp butter, divided
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tsp chopped fresh sage
- ½ tsp poultry seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ lb sausage (Italian or breakfast)
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Begin by making the delicious sausage gravy: melt 2 tablespoons butter, add sausage, cook until browned, sprinkle in flour, gradually pour in milk. Chill for at least 2 hours.
- While gravy chills, sauté chopped onion and celery in 4 tablespoons butter until soft, stir in poultry seasoning, and add broth; simmer.
- In a bowl, mix stuffing ingredients with sautéed vegetables until combined.
- Grease muffin tin, fill halfway with stuffing, make a well, add gravy, top with stuffing, and brush with melted butter.
- Bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes until golden; cool before serving.
Notes
Chilling the gravy is essential for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 kcal per muffin
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Protein: 5 g