If you’re looking for a cozy side dish that will impress your family without taking up all your time, then this Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing is just the ticket! This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home, especially during the holidays. The sweet and tangy cranberries paired with crunchy pecans create a delightful contrast that everyone loves. Plus, it’s made in the slow cooker, freeing up your oven for other delicious dishes.

This stuffing is perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings when you want to enjoy good food without stress. You can simply toss everything into the Crock Pot, let it cook slowly, and then sit back and relax while the mouthwatering aroma fills your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious stuffing ready to go.
Family-friendly flavors: The combination of cranberries and pecans makes this stuffing appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Perfect for meal prep: Make this dish ahead of time; it reheats beautifully!
Versatile side dish: Great for holidays or any dinner table throughout the year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking with wholesome ingredients makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing:

For the Stuffing Base

12 oz. bag Sage & Onion cubed stuffing
1 cup leeks (chopped) or substitute green onions
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup golden raisins
1/2 cup chopped pecans

For the Mixture

3 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup butter (melted)
1 egg (beaten)
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1 tsp. ground mustard

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize your stuffing:

Add more veggies: Toss in diced carrots or celery for extra crunch and flavor.
Go nut-free: Skip the pecans if you have nut allergies; sunflower seeds are a great alternative!
Use different fruits: Swap out cranberries and raisins for chopped apples or pears for a fresh twist.
Spice it up: Add some herbs like thyme or sage to enhance the flavor profile.

How to Make Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients

Start by tossing your cubed stuffing, leeks (or green onions), dried cranberries, golden raisins, and chopped pecans in a sprayed 5-quart Crock Pot. This base is where all those wonderful flavors come together, so mix them gently but thoroughly.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Liquid Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, ground mustard, salt, and pepper. This mixture adds moisture and richness to the stuffing as it cooks. Pour it over the bread mixture in the Crock Pot and gently fold everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Cook Slowly and Enjoy

Cook on low for 3-4 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Cooking on low allows all those flavors to meld beautifully while keeping your kitchen nice and cozy! When it’s done cooking, serve warm at your next gathering or alongside a comforting weeknight meal.

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing as much as I do! It’s bound to become a staple in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

Making stuffing in your Crock Pot can be a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh leeks and high-quality broth will enhance the flavors of your stuffing. Freshness makes a noticeable difference in taste and texture.
Let the bread mixture soak: Allowing the cubed stuffing to soak in the broth mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking helps it absorb all those delicious flavors, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish.
Stir gently: When combining the ingredients, stir gently to avoid breaking up the bread cubes too much. This keeps the texture light and fluffy!
Check doneness with a thermometer: To ensure food safety, use a meat thermometer to check that your stuffing reaches an internal temperature of 165°. This guarantees that it’s cooked thoroughly.
Customize with add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or celery for added depth of flavor. Personalizing your stuffing can make it even more special!

How to Serve Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

Serving Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing is a joy—its delightful colors and textures make it an inviting addition to any table. Here are some ideas to present this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that brightens up the dish.
Cranberry sauce: A small dollop of cranberry sauce on top not only looks appealing but also complements the stuffing’s flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes bring warmth and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the stuffing.
Green salad: A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast that enhances your meal’s overall appeal.
Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that adds comfort and heartiness alongside your stuffing, making for an unforgettable holiday feast.

With these serving suggestions, you can create not just a meal, but an experience filled with warmth and joy. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones during the holidays.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the stuffing to cool completely before storing.
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

For long-term storage, freeze the stuffing in a freezer-safe container.
Make sure to label the container with the date and contents.
It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

Thaw frozen stuffing overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through (165°F).
If using the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out and bake at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers might have about this recipe!

Can I make Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.

How long does Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing take to cook?

The stuffing cooks on low for approximately 3-4 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I add other ingredients to my Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like celery or mushrooms, or even using different nuts or dried fruits according to your taste.

What can I serve with Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing?

This stuffing pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, chicken, or any holiday main dish. It’s also great alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing as delightful as I do! Its combination of sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans makes it a standout side dish that will surely impress your guests. Enjoy making this recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on it. Happy cooking!