Discover Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins for Your Holiday Feast

As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves begin to turn, our thoughts naturally drift towards the warm, comforting flavors of the holiday season. And what could be more quintessentially “comfort food” than a classic Thanksgiving stuffing? Well, get ready to elevate this beloved dish to new heights with our Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins – a delightful fusion of savory, herb-infused stuffing and rich, velvety gravy.

These Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins are the perfect addition to any festive spread, from Thanksgiving dinner to holiday potlucks and beyond. With their golden, crisp tops and decadent gravy-filled centers, they’re sure to delight your guests and have them coming back for seconds (or thirds!). So, let’s dive in and explore the secrets to crafting these irresistible morsels that will become a new tradition in your household.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins

To create these flavor-packed Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Let’s break down the components and their importance:

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons butter – Provides a rich, creamy base for the gravy.
• ½ pound sausage (Italian or breakfast sausage) – Adds a savory, seasoned element to the gravy.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Acts as a thickening agent to create the desired gravy consistency.
• 1½ cups milk – Brings creaminess and smoothness to the gravy.
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper – Adds a subtle kick of heat to balance the richness.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – Enhances the overall flavor profile.

For the Stuffing Muffins:

• 5 tablespoons butter, divided – Used for sautéing the vegetables and brushing the muffin tops.
• 1 onion, chopped – Provides aromatic depth and sweetness.
• 2 stalks celery, chopped – Adds a delightful crunch and freshness.
• ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning – Infuses the stuffing with classic Thanksgiving flavors.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – Enhances the overall seasoning.
• 1½ cups chicken or turkey broth – Keeps the stuffing moist and flavorful.
• 6 cups bread cubes or stuffing mix – The star of the show, providing the perfect base for the dish.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – Adds a touch of freshness and color.
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh sage – Lends an earthy, herbal note.
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme – Complements the other herbs beautifully.
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten – Helps to bind the stuffing mixture together.

With these carefully selected ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a showstopping dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Preparing the Gravy

The key to making this Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins recipe a success is the homemade gravy. By taking the time to prepare this flavorful accompaniment, you’ll elevate the entire dish to new heights.

Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the all-purpose flour to create a roux, and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

Now, it’s time to gradually whisk in the milk. Continue stirring until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens, creating a rich, velvety gravy. Season with the cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to taste. Once the gravy has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until it’s thick and chilled.

Preparing the Stuffing Mixture

With the gravy taken care of, it’s time to turn our attention to the stuffing muffin base. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter.

In a pan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté the vegetables until they’re translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Now, pour in the chicken or turkey broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, chopped parsley, sage, and thyme. Pour the hot broth mixture over the bread mixture and stir well to ensure the bread is evenly coated. Finally, gently stir in the lightly beaten eggs until everything is fully incorporated.

Assembling the Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins

It’s time to bring all the components together and create these delightful Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins. Scoop the stuffing mixture into the prepared muffin cups, pressing down slightly to compact it. Using your finger, create a hole in the center of each muffin, leaving about 1 inch from the bottom. Carefully spoon 2 tablespoons of the chilled gravy into each hole, then mold additional stuffing over the top to cover the gravy.

Finish by brushing the tops of the muffins with the remaining melted butter. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color and an extra layer of flavor.

Baking and Serving the Muffins

Place the muffin tin on the middle rack of your preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the muffins are firm to the touch.

Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help them hold their shape and prevent the gravy from spilling out. Serve these Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins warm, with any extra gravy drizzled over the top or on the side for dipping.

These delightful morsels are sure to be the star of your holiday spread, offering a unique and irresistible twist on a classic Thanksgiving favorite. Enjoy the perfect combination of savory, herb-infused stuffing and rich, creamy gravy in every bite!

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine with Garlic Cajun Butter
• Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potato Pancakes
• BBQ Bacon Ranch Loaded Fries Casserole
• Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf Bites

FAQs

Can I use store-bought stuffing mix instead of making my own?

Yes, you can definitely use store-bought stuffing mix for this recipe! Just make sure to adjust the amount of broth you add according to the instructions on the package, as some mixes may require more or less liquid. This can save time and still yield delicious and flavorful Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins. You can also customize the store-bought mix by adding sautéed vegetables or fresh herbs to enhance the flavor.

What are some creative ways to serve Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins?

Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience. Consider placing them on a bed of mixed greens for a fresh contrast, drizzling extra gravy on top, or pairing them with cranberry sauce for a sweet-tart balance. They also make excellent appetizers; just serve them warm with toothpicks for easy handling at parties or gatherings. For a more festive touch, garnish with fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, before serving.

How can I adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions, such as vegan or gluten-free diets?

To make Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins vegan, substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage and use a non-dairy milk for the gravy. For a gluten-free version, ensure that you use gluten-free bread cubes and check that the broth is gluten-free as well. Additionally, consider using gluten-free all-purpose flour for the gravy to maintain the desired texture and consistency. These adjustments allow everyone to enjoy this comforting dish without compromising their dietary needs.

What can I do if my stuffing muffins are too dry after baking?

If you find that your stuffing muffins are too dry, it’s often due to insufficient moisture in the mixture before baking. To prevent this, ensure you’re adding enough broth to the stuffing mixture and evenly distributing it. If they are already baked, you can remedy the dryness by drizzling additional gravy over the muffins before serving or reheating them with a splash of broth in the oven to restore moisture. Keeping them covered while reheating can also help retain moisture.

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