These Thanksgiving Leftover Stuffing Muffins are a fun and tasty way to use up your holiday leftovers! They’re packed with savory stuffing, veggies, and a touch of cheese.
Imagine having a cute muffin that’s easy to grab and enjoy! I love adding some cranberry sauce on top—it’s the perfect sweet-tart combo! Who knew leftovers could be this exciting? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Leftover Stuffing: This is the star of the show! Use whatever stuffing you made for Thanksgiving, whether it’s homemade or store-bought. If you’re out, you can make a quick version using stale bread, sautéed vegetables, and herbs.
Eggs: They help bind everything together. If you need a substitute, consider using flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg) or chia eggs for a vegan version.
Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice sharp flavor, but feel free to swap in other cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or even pepper jack if you prefer a little heat!
Dried Cranberries: They give a sweet touch. You could use raisins or chopped dried apricots as alternatives. Fresh chopped apples also work, giving extra crunch and freshness.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Stuffing Muffins?
The key to achieving muffins that are cooked through but still moist is managing the baking time and temperature. Here are some tips:
- Be sure to preheat the oven to the right temperature to ensure even cooking.
- Pack the stuffing mixture gently but firmly in the muffin tin, so they hold their shape while baking.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready!
- Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before removing. This helps them stay intact.
These tips will help you create delicious stuffing muffins that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Enjoy your holiday leftovers in a whole new way!
Thanksgiving Leftover Stuffing Muffins
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups leftover stuffing (homemade or store-bought), crumbled
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup cooked turkey, diced (optional for extra protein)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, plus extra for garnish
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, plus sprigs for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or butter, for greasing the muffin pan
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 25-30 minutes for baking. In total, you’re looking at around 45-50 minutes to enjoy these delightful muffins that make the most of your Thanksgiving leftovers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tin:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until they are fully combined. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper to the mixture to season it nicely.
3. Combine the Stuffing Mixture:
Now, it’s time to add in the fun ingredients! Stir in your crumbled leftover stuffing, diced turkey (if you’re using it), shredded cheese, dried cranberries, and chopped parsley. Mix gently until everything is well combined.
4. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Using a spoon, fill each muffin cup evenly with the stuffing mixture. Press down gently to pack the stuffing well so that they hold their shape while baking.
5. Add Garnishes:
For a pretty touch, top each muffin with a few extra dried cranberries and a little sprig of fresh parsley.
6. Bake the Muffins:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. They should be set and golden on top. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin—it should come out clean!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once they’ve baked perfectly, take the muffins out of the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, gently remove them from the tray.
8. Enjoy Your Delicious Muffins:
These scrumptious Thanksgiving stuffing muffins are best served warm. They pair wonderfully with a drizzle of cranberry sauce or a side of gravy. Enjoy this tasty way to relive your Thanksgiving meal!
These muffins are a delightful treat that transforms your Thanksgiving leftovers into something new and exciting. Happy baking!
Can I Use Different Types of Stuffing?
Yes! Feel free to use any type of stuffing you have on hand, whether it’s cornbread, herb, or even a wild rice stuffing. Just make sure it’s crumbled for the best texture in your muffins.
Can I Make These Muffins Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just fill the muffin tin and bake when you’re ready to enjoy them. If you’re baking them from cold, add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffing Muffins?
Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave for a quick snack or warm them in the oven to restore some crispness.
Can I Freeze These Muffins?
Yes, these muffins freeze well! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.