Okay, grab a seat at my kitchen table, friend! Let’s talk Crockpot Stuffing. Mmm, just the thought of it brings back so many memories. I can almost smell that savory, comforting aroma filling the house, a sure sign that Thanksgiving (or any cozy Sunday supper!) is just around the corner. I can practically taste the buttery bread, the fragrant herbs, and the perfectly moist texture… Oh, I’m getting hungry already!

You know, for years, I was terrified of making stuffing. It always seemed like such a complicated, high-stakes dish. I’d picture my Grandma’s perfect stuffing, a masterpiece baked in the oven, and feel completely inadequate. My early attempts were either dry as a bone or a soggy, mushy mess. It was a total kitchen disaster! Then, one year, completely overwhelmed by everything else going on for Thanksgiving, I had an “aha!” moment: the crockpot! I figured, why not try making Crockpot Stuffing? I could free up oven space, and maybe, just maybe, it would turn out okay.

Well, let me tell you, it was a game-changer! The slow, gentle cooking of the crockpot kept the stuffing incredibly moist and flavorful, and it was SO much easier than baking it. No more worrying about the top getting burnt or the inside being undercooked. It was perfect! And that’s how my family’s love affair with Crockpot Stuffing began. It’s become a staple, not just for Thanksgiving, but for any time we crave that cozy, comforting flavor. Even my picky eater, Leo, devours it! It’s honestly a lifesaver on busy weeknights when I want a hearty side dish without a ton of fuss. It really is the most easy crockpot stuffing recipe.

It fits perfectly into my cooking philosophy: delicious, family-friendly food that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Because let’s be honest, who has time for that? I believe in making good food accessible to everyone, even the busiest among us. And this Crockpot Stuffing? It’s the epitome of that. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a complete beginner, I promise you can make this. So, are you ready to ditch the oven and try the easiest, most delicious Crockpot Stuffing you’ve ever had? Let’s get started! This thanksgiving crockpot stuffing will amaze everyone.

What You’ll Need for This Crockpot Stuffing

Okay, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make my family’s favorite Crockpot Stuffing:

1 loaf (about 1 pound) of day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes I always use a good-quality sourdough or Italian bread for my Crockpot Stuffing. I find that they hold their shape well and have a great flavor.
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter The butter is essential for flavor and moisture.
1 large onion, chopped A yellow or white onion works perfectly.
2 celery stalks, chopped Celery adds a nice crunch and savory flavor.
1 teaspoon dried sage Sage is a classic stuffing herb.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme Thyme adds a warm, earthy note.
1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary Rosemary provides a subtle, piney aroma.
1/2 teaspoon salt Adjust to your taste.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper Freshly ground is best!
3 cups chicken broth I prefer low-sodium so I can control the saltiness.
2 large eggs, lightly beaten The eggs help bind the stuffing together.
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley For a pop of freshness and color.

When making Crockpot Stuffing, you can often find day-old bread at a discount at your local bakery. It’s a great way to save a little money! If you don’t have day-old bread, you can cube fresh bread and toast it in a low oven (about 200°F) for about an hour to dry it out.

Here’s a Crockpot Stuffing trick I learned from my mom: sauté the onion and celery in the butter before adding them to the crockpot. It really brings out their flavor and adds another layer of deliciousness to the stuffing. You can also use pre-cut veggies if you are in a rush, making this the easy crockpot stuffing recipe. This recipe can be ready in no time!

As for storage, leftover bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Chicken broth can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage. Speaking of chicken broth, have you tried making my Crockpot Potato Soup? It uses similar ingredients, and it’s another family favorite!

And don’t forget, if you’re looking for another great stuffing recipe, Spend with Pennies has a fantastic Crock Pot Stuffing recipe that’s worth checking out!

Let’s Make This Crockpot Stuffing Together

Alright, let’s get cooking! Here are the step-by-step instructions to make this delicious Crockpot Stuffing:

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Bread: If you haven’t already, cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. If using fresh bread, toast it lightly in a low oven (200°F) for about an hour to dry it out. This will help prevent the stuffing from becoming too soggy.
Sauté the Vegetables: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the dried sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, and chicken broth. Toss gently to combine, making sure the bread is evenly moistened.
Add the Eggs: Pour the lightly beaten eggs over the bread mixture and toss gently to combine.
Transfer to the Crockpot: Grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter or cooking spray. Pour the stuffing mixture into the crockpot and spread it out evenly.
Cook the Stuffing: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. The stuffing is done when it is heated through and the bread is tender. Cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker, so keep an eye on it. Don’t worry if your Crockpot Stuffing looks a little wet at first; it will continue to absorb the moisture as it cooks.
Garnish and Serve: Once the stuffing is cooked through, stir in the chopped fresh parsley (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!

I learned the hard way with Crockpot Stuffing that it’s important not to overcook it. Overcooked stuffing can become dry and crumbly. Start checking it after about 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high. I highly suggest that when making this Easy Crockpot Stuffing Recipe for Thanksgiving | The Kitchn, you really keep an eye on it.

In my kitchen, Crockpot Stuffing usually takes about 5 hours on low to cook perfectly. But every slow cooker is different, so it’s always best to check it periodically. While the Crockpot Stuffing is cooking, I like to get the rest of my meal prepped. Maybe I’ll start on the mashed potatoes or get the turkey ready for the oven. Multitasking is key when you’re cooking a big meal!

Your Crockpot Stuffing should smell like a warm, savory combination of bread, herbs, and vegetables. It’s a truly comforting aroma that will make your mouth water! If you’re short on time, you can prepare the stuffing mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the eggs right before transferring it to the crockpot. That’s what makes this a great make ahead crockpot stuffing. This Thanksgiving crockpot stuffing is a lifesaver!

How I Love to Serve This Crockpot Stuffing

My family loves this Crockpot Stuffing when I serve it alongside a roasted chicken or turkey, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole. It’s the perfect comfort food meal! And of course, a generous drizzle of gravy is a must.

This Crockpot Stuffing is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday gathering. It’s also great for potlucks and weeknight dinners. I even make it sometimes just because we’re craving it!

For presentation, I like to transfer the stuffing to a pretty serving dish and garnish it with fresh parsley or cranberries. It adds a festive touch to the table.

If you have extra Crockpot Stuffing, you can use it to make stuffing muffins or add it to breakfast casseroles. It’s also delicious served cold with a dollop of cranberry sauce. One of my favorite things to do is make turkey and stuffing sandwiches the day after Thanksgiving. So good!

As for seasonal variations, you can add dried cranberries and chopped pecans for a festive fall flavor. Or, for a more savory twist, try adding cooked sausage or bacon to the stuffing mixture. Friends always ask for this Crockpot Stuffing recipe, and they’re always amazed at how easy it is to make. It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser! If you want a moist crockpot stuffing, this recipe will make the magic happen!

And don’t forget to check out The Country Cook for another fantastic Crock Pot Stuffing recipe!

Your Crockpot Stuffing Questions Answered

Okay, let’s tackle some common Crockpot Stuffing questions I’ve gotten over the years:

“My stuffing is too dry. What did I do wrong?” You know what I do when my Crockpot Stuffing is too dry? I add a little extra chicken broth, a few tablespoons at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. It’s also possible that your bread was too dry to begin with. Make sure to use day-old bread or toast it lightly to prevent it from drying out too much.
“My stuffing is too soggy. How can I fix it?” Ah, we’ve all been there! If your Crockpot Stuffing is too soggy, try removing the lid for the last hour of cooking to allow some of the moisture to evaporate. You can also add a little extra toasted bread cubes to absorb the excess liquid.
“Can I use a different type of bread?” Absolutely! While I prefer sourdough or Italian bread, you can use any type of bread you like. Just be sure to adjust the amount of chicken broth accordingly, as different types of bread absorb liquid differently.
“Can I add meat to this recipe?” Definitely! Cooked sausage or bacon are great additions to this Crockpot Stuffing. Just brown the meat before adding it to the stuffing mixture.
“Can I make this vegetarian?” Of course! Simply substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables, such as mushrooms or carrots, for added flavor and texture.
“How long can I store leftover stuffing?” Leftover Crockpot Stuffing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container.
“Can I freeze this stuffing?” Yes, you can! Allow the stuffing to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

One time, I forgot to add the eggs to my Crockpot Stuffing, and it turned out a little crumbly. But you know what? It still tasted delicious! My family didn’t even notice. My son, Leo, loves it with extra sage, while my husband prefers it with dried cranberries. We all have our own preferences!

My Final Thoughts on This Crockpot Stuffing

This Crockpot Stuffing recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s a reminder of how simple, comforting food can bring people together. It’s a dish that I know my family will always love, and it’s one that I’m proud to share with you.

Crockpot Stuffing Pro Tips:

Don’t overcook it! Start checking the stuffing after about 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high to prevent it from drying out.
Use good-quality bread! It makes a big difference in the flavor and texture of the stuffing.
Don’t be afraid to experiment! Add your favorite herbs, vegetables, or meats to customize the recipe to your liking.

Here are a few Crockpot Stuffing variations I’ve tried with my family:

Cranberry Pecan: Add dried cranberries and chopped pecans for a festive fall flavor.
Sausage and Apple: Add cooked sausage and diced apples for a savory-sweet twist.
Mushroom and Herb: Add sautéed mushrooms and extra herbs for a vegetarian option.

My son, Leo, loves the sausage and apple version, while my daughter, Mia, prefers the cranberry pecan. My husband is a fan of the classic version with extra sage.

I encourage you to make this Crockpot Stuffing your own. Add your own personal touch and create a recipe that your family will love for years to come. This thanksgiving crockpot stuffing recipe is the ultimate way to celebrate. My moist crockpot stuffing is always a crowd pleaser.

I hope you enjoy making this Crockpot Stuffing as much as my family and I do. It’s a simple, delicious, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking! And remember, don’t be afraid to make mistakes. That’s how we learn and grow in the kitchen. Just have fun and enjoy the process! Let me know how your Crockpot Stuffing turns out! I’d love to hear about your experiences and any variations you try. Happy cooking, friends!

Crockpot Stuffing

Print Recipe

This Crockpot Stuffing recipe is a game-changer for holiday dinners! Perfectly moist and flavorful, it frees up oven space and is incredibly easy to make.

Author: Liliana
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Category: Side Dish
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 loaf (1 pound) day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon dried sage
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Place bread cubes in a large bowl.
In a skillet, sauté celery and onion in melted butter until tender.
Add sage, thyme, and pepper to the skillet; cook for 1 minute more.
Pour the celery mixture over the bread cubes.
Add chicken broth and parsley; toss gently to combine.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 5-6 quart slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, or until heated through and bread is tender.

Notes

For a richer flavor, brown Italian sausage in the skillet with the celery and onion.