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Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins

Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins

Gravy-Stuffed Stuffing Muffins are a unique and comforting twist on classic stuffing, featuring moist, flavorful stuffing with a rich, creamy gravy center baked into convenient muffin-sized portions. Perfect as a cozy meal or elegant holiday appetizer, these muffins offer savory herbs, tender bread, and a luscious gravy surprise inside every bite. Easy to make and highly customizable, they deliver comforting flavors that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Stuffing Base

  • 3 cups breadcrumbs or cubed bread (fresh or day-old)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 large egg
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Gravy Filling

  • 1 cup rich, smooth gravy (turkey, chicken, or vegetarian mushroom gravy)

Optional Additions

  • 1/2 cup cooked breakfast sausage (for meat version)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries or chopped apples (for sweet and savory twist)
  • Alternative herbs: fresh parsley, tarragon, or marjoram (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Stuffing Mixture: Begin by sautéing diced onions and celery in butter or olive oil over medium heat until soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes or breadcrumbs with the sautéed vegetables, dried herbs (sage, thyme, rosemary), broth, egg, salt, and pepper. Toss gently until evenly moistened. Add optional ingredients like cooked sausage, cheese, or dried fruit if desired.
  2. Prepare the Gravy Filling: Make a rich gravy from scratch using pan drippings or thin store-bought gravy with a splash of broth until smooth and thick enough to hold its shape inside the muffins without leaking during baking. Let the gravy cool slightly to prevent soaking the stuffing excessively.
  3. Assemble the Muffins: Thoroughly grease a muffin tin. Press a portion of the stuffing mixture into the base of each muffin cup, pressing firmly and creating a small well in the center. Spoon a generous amount of gravy into the well, then cover with more stuffing mixture to seal the gravy inside, smoothing the top.
  4. Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled muffins for 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top and heated through. The stuffing should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape when removed from the tin.
  5. Let Cool Slightly and Serve: Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the tin. Serve warm, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or thyme for a bright, herbal contrast.

Notes

  • Use slightly stale bread to ensure the stuffing absorbs broth without becoming mushy.
  • Do not overfill muffin cups to allow sealing of gravy and prevent spills.
  • Cool the gravy slightly before filling to avoid soggy stuffing.
  • Grease the muffin tin thoroughly for easy removal and shape retention.
  • Add broth gradually to achieve moist but not soggy stuffing consistency.
  • Let muffins rest after baking to let gravy set inside for a neat center.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffing muffins, gravy stuffed muffins, comfort food, holiday appetizer, savory muffins