When you think of cozy family dinners, stove top stuffing recipes often comes to mind. This convenient, versatile side dish goes beyond Thanksgiving — it can elevate a simple meal, add a flavorful twist to recipes, and even become the star of the table. In this guide, we’ll explore stove top stuffing recipes that range from classic options to creative twists, showing how it can be used in dishes you might not expect. Whether you’re looking to whip up a quick dinner or experiment with international flavors, these recipes will inspire you to make every meal unforgettable.
Table of Contents
Why Use Stove Top Stuffing?
Stove top stuffing is popular for good reason. Not only is it easy and quick to make, but it also brings hearty flavors to any dish. With pre-seasoned breadcrumbs and herbs, stove top stuffing saves time while ensuring rich flavors. Plus, it’s flexible! You can use it in casseroles, meatloaf, and stuffed vegetables to add texture and taste. For those unfamiliar with stuffing’s origins and traditional ingredients, you can read more about stuffing history here from the Smithsonian, giving you a deeper appreciation of this beloved dish.
Classic Stove Top Stuffing Recipes
For those who appreciate a traditional approach, this classic stove top stuffing recipe is a great starting point. Let’s break down the steps and ingredients to make your stove top stuffing a delicious base for other recipes.
Ingredients
- 1 package of stove top stuffing mix
- 1 1/2 cups of water or broth (for added flavor)
- 1/4 cup butter
Instructions
- Boil the Liquid: Bring water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan.
- Add Butter: Once boiling, add butter and let it melt.
- Combine with Stuffing Mix: Pour in the stove top stuffing mix, stirring well to combine. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Fluff and Serve: Use a fork to fluff the stuffing, and it’s ready to serve!
10 Creative Recipes Using Stove Top Stuffing
If you’re ready to take stove top stuffing to new culinary heights, try these delicious and creative recipes that show just how versatile stove top stuffing recipes can be.
1. Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe
Stove top stuffing in meatloaf? Absolutely! This twist on traditional meatloaf adds texture and seasoning, making it a tasty, crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Stove top stuffing mix | 1 package |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Ketchup | 1/2 cup |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, stove top stuffing mix, water, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a loaf pan.
- Bake: Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
- Serve: Slice and serve with your favorite sides for a comforting meal.
For more creative stuffing recipes, check out this stuffed shells recipe with meat.
2. Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
This casserole is a classic, easy dinner option for busy nights. Using stove top stuffing as a topping makes it flavorful and filling.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 2, cubed
- Cream of chicken soup: 1 can
- Sour cream: 1 cup
- Stove top stuffing mix: 1 package, prepared
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the cubed chicken in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Mix Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and sour cream. Pour over the chicken.
- Top with Stuffing: Spread the prepared stove top stuffing over the top.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
This comforting dish is perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy family meal.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers with Stove Top Stuffing
Stuffed bell peppers are a classic dish that becomes even more flavorful with stove top stuffing.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bell peppers | 4, halved and seeded |
| Ground turkey or beef | 1 lb |
| Stove top stuffing mix | 1 package |
| Tomato sauce | 1 cup |
| Grated cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Instructions
- Prepare the Peppers: Blanch the bell peppers in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain.
- Cook the Meat: In a skillet, cook the ground meat until browned. Add tomato sauce and seasonings.
- Combine with Stuffing: Prepare the stove top stuffing mix and combine it with the cooked meat mixture.
- Stuff the Peppers: Place the meat and stuffing mixture into each bell pepper half.
- Bake: Place in a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Sprinkle cheese on top and bake an additional 5 minutes.
Stuffed bell peppers make a hearty, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.
4. Stuffing-Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are an elegant appetizer that pairs well with any meal. Using stove top stuffing adds a savory depth to the filling.
Ingredients
- Large mushrooms: 12, stems removed
- Stove top stuffing mix: 1/2 package, prepared
- Cream cheese: 1/4 cup, softened
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup
- Fresh parsley: 1 tbsp, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Mushrooms: Clean and remove the stems from the mushrooms.
- Mix Filling: In a bowl, combine the prepared stuffing, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
- Fill Mushrooms: Spoon the stuffing mixture into each mushroom cap.
- Bake: Place on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
These mushrooms make a deliciously bite-sized treat perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion.
5. Thanksgiving Leftover Sandwich
Turn your Thanksgiving leftovers into a delicious sandwich by layering turkey, stove top stuffing, and cranberry sauce on a bun.
Ingredients
- Leftover turkey slices: 4-6
- Prepared stove top stuffing: 1/2 cup
- Cranberry sauce: 2 tbsp
- Bread roll or bun: 1
Instructions
- Layer Ingredients: Spread cranberry sauce on one side of the bun, then layer with turkey slices and stuffing.
- Serve: Close the bun, and enjoy this tasty Thanksgiving-inspired sandwich.
6. Sausage and Apple Stuffing Skillet
Add crumbled sausage, diced apples, and onions to stove top stuffing for a sweet and savory skillet dish.
Ingredients
- Sausage links (crumbled): 4
- Apple, diced: 1
- Onion, chopped: 1/2
- Prepared stove top stuffing: 1 package
Instructions
- Cook Sausage and Vegetables: In a skillet, cook sausage until browned. Add apple and onion and cook until softened.
- Combine with Stuffing: Mix the prepared stuffing into the skillet until well combined.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
7. Broccoli and Cheese Stuffing Bake
Combine cooked broccoli and shredded cheese with prepared stove top stuffing for a cheesy, veggie-packed bake.
Ingredients
- Broccoli florets, steamed: 1 cup
- Shredded cheese: 1/2 cup
- Prepared stove top stuffing: 1 package
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix broccoli, cheese, and stuffing.
- Bake: Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Mexican-Inspired Stuffed Peppers
Replace the ground beef with seasoned ground turkey, and add salsa and shredded cheese to create a Mexican twist on stuffed peppers.
Ingredients
- Bell peppers, halved and seeded: 4
- Ground turkey, cooked: 1 lb
- Salsa: 1/2 cup
- Shredded cheese: 1/2 cup
- Prepared stove top stuffing: 1 package
Instructions
- Prepare Stuffing: In a bowl, mix ground turkey with salsa and stuffing.
- Fill Peppers: Fill each pepper half with the stuffing mixture.
- Bake: Place in a baking dish, sprinkle cheese, and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.
9. Italian Sausage Stuffing
Mix Italian sausage, bell peppers, and marinara sauce into stove top stuffing for an Italian-flavored dish perfect for pasta lovers.
Ingredients
- Italian sausage, crumbled and cooked: 1 lb
- Bell pepper, diced: 1
- Marinara sauce: 1/2 cup
- Prepared stove top stuffing: 1 package
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cooked sausage, bell pepper, marinara sauce, and stuffing.
- Serve: Enjoy as a side or stuffed into pasta shells.
10. Stove Top Stuffing Waffles
Mix prepared stuffing with an egg and cook in a waffle iron for savory stuffing waffles, a unique side or snack.
Ingredients
- Prepared stove top stuffing: 1 cup
- Egg: 1
Instructions
- Combine: In a bowl, mix stuffing with egg until well combined.
- Cook in Waffle Iron: Place in a preheated waffle iron and cook until golden brown.
- Serve: Serve as a side or with gravy for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about stove top stuffing recipes, with answers to guide you in the kitchen:
- Can I make stove top stuffing ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it as usual, and store it in the fridge. Reheat in the oven before serving. - Can I freeze stove top stuffing dishes?
Yes, cooked stuffing can be frozen. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake until warmed. - What are other proteins I can pair with stuffing?
Turkey, chicken, and pork work wonderfully, but stuffing also complements vegetarian options like lentils and mushrooms. - How can I make stove top stuffing healthier?
Add more vegetables, use whole-grain stuffing mix, and replace butter with olive oil for a lighter version. - What dishes can I serve with stove top stuffing?
It pairs well with green beans, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and salads for a balanced meal.
For further inspiration, consider trying this delicious stuffed green pepper recipe with stove top stuffing.
Conclusion
Stove top stuffing recipes offer incredible versatility, transforming simple ingredients into hearty, flavorful meals. Whether you’re preparing a classic dish or experimenting with creative twists like stuffed peppers, casseroles, or meatloaf, stove top stuffing recipes bring convenience and taste to the table. Try these recipes to make your meals more memorable and satisfy family and friends with ease.
