Irresistible Slow Cooker Cranberry Pecan Stuffing Recipe

As the holiday season approaches, the aroma of savory stuffing wafts through homes, bringing feelings of warmth and camaraderie. This Slow Cooker Cranberry Pecan Stuffing not only boasts a delightful medley of flavors but also embodies the spirit of togetherness, creating memories around the dinner table.

Inspired by family traditions, this recipe combines classic stuffing elements with a twist—tart cranberries and crunchy pecans. Perfect for Thanksgiving or a cozy family gathering, it’s a dish that captures the essence of festive feasting. With its easy preparation and unique flavor profile, this stuffing will quickly become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the standout features of this stuffing is its convenience. Toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and let it do its magic while you focus on other holiday preparations. Beyond the ease of preparation, the combination of sweet, tart, and nutty elements creates a filling that is rich in flavor yet not overwhelming. The textures—soft bread mingling with crunchy pecans and chewy cranberries—add an engaging contrast your taste buds will love.

What Does The Recipe Taste Like

This stuffing presents a delightful play of flavors and textures. The earthy notes of the bread intermingle beautifully with the sweetness of dried cranberries, which pop with a tangy burst in each bite. The pecans add a nutty richness and a satisfying crunch that balances the softness of the bread. Every mouthful is a refreshing twist on the traditional stuffing that packs a delightful surprise, making it a standout side dish at any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 package of cubed bread (about 12 cups): The base of our stuffing. Use a hearty loaf for best results.
• 1 cup of chopped pecans: Adds a nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
• 1 cup of dried cranberries: Introduces a sweet and tangy element.
• 1 onion, chopped: Provides savory depth and aromatic flavor.
• 2 celery stalks, chopped: Adds a crisp texture and subtle flavor.
• 2 cups of vegetable broth: Ensures the stuffing stays moist and flavorful.
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme: Infuses an earthy herbaceous note.
• 1 teaspoon of dried sage: Contributes a warm, slightly peppery flavor.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essentials for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
• 1/4 cup of melted butter: Adds richness and binds the flavors together.

Optional Additions

• Chopped apples: For an added sweetness and freshness.
• Sauteed mushrooms: To introduce an earthy taste.
• Cranberry juice: A splash can increase the tartness and depth of flavor.

Special Garnishes

To take your stuffing to the next level, consider garnishing it with:

• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Extra toasted pecans: For an extra crunch on top.
• Whole dried cranberries: For a festive touch and deeper flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by chopping the onion, celery, and pecans. Make sure your cubed bread is dry; if it’s fresh, toast it lightly in the oven to enhance texture.
2. Sauté vegetables: In a skillet, melt a bit of butter and sauté the onion and celery until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
3. Combine the stuffing ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, chopped pecans, dried cranberries, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and melted butter. Toss everything until the bread is evenly moistened.
5. Transfer to the slow cooker: Grease the interior of your slow cooker with cooking spray. Pour the stuffing mixture into the slow cooker. Spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
6. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the stuffing is heated through and cooked to your desired texture. Stir occasionally, if possible, to ensure even cooking.
7. Serve: Once cooked, fluff the stuffing with a fork and serve hot. Garnish as desired.

Recipe Variations

If you’d like to switch things up, consider adding cooked sausage for a heartier version, or substitute different nuts like walnuts for a unique twist. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread. Experimenting with different herbs like rosemary or adding citrus zest can also give this recipe a refreshing yet fragrant edge. The possibilities are endless!

Serving and Storage Tips

This scrumptious stuffing can be served alongside roasted turkey, baked ham, or as an elegant standalone dish. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results or warm up in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Helpful Tips

For the best flavor, opt for day-old bread, which absorbs the broth better. Additionally, feel free to prepare the stuffing a day ahead; just assemble everything in the slow cooker, refrigerate, and simply heat it on the day of serving. Taste before serving; this will allow you to adjust seasonings as needed and achieve the perfect flavor balance.

Special Equipment

While a slow cooker is the main tool for this recipe, you’ll also need a large mixing bowl for combining ingredients and a skillet for sautéing vegetables if you choose to go that route. Additionally, having a spatula or large wooden spoon on hand will ease the mixing process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing the day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just heat it in the slow cooker on the day you plan to serve it, adjusting cooking times as necessary since it will start off cold.

What type of bread works best?

A rustic or sourdough bread typically works best for stuffing, as it has a good density and holds up well when moist. Avoid soft sandwich breads as they can become mushy after cooking.

Can I freeze this stuffing?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffing before cooking it. Just assemble the mixture, place it in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Cranberry Pecan Stuffing is not just a dish; it’s a heartfelt experience that captures the warmth of home-cooked meals and the joy of family gatherings. With its harmonious blend of flavors and easy preparation, it is destined to be a favorite during the holiday season and beyond.

We invite you to try this recipe and share your stories or personal twists in the comments. This stuffing is more than a side dish—it’s a chance to create memorable moments with loved ones, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys a taste of tradition with a delightful twist!

Irresistible Slow Cooker Cranberry Pecan Stuffing Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: souzanfood
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Discover an irresistible slow cooker cranberry pecan stuffing recipe perfect for your holiday feast Easy delicious and a crowdpleaser

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 package of cubed bread (about 12 cups)

1 cup of chopped pecans

1 cup of dried cranberries

1 onion, chopped

2 celery stalks, chopped

2 cups of vegetable broth

1 teaspoon of dried thyme

1 teaspoon of dried sage

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/4 cup of melted butter

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

Prepare the ingredients: Start by chopping the onion, celery, and pecans. Make sure your cubed bread is dry; if it’s fresh, toast it lightly in the oven to enhance texture.

Sauté vegetables: In a skillet, melt a bit of butter and sauté the onion and celery until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.

Combine the stuffing ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, chopped pecans, dried cranberries, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Add broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and melted butter. Toss everything until the bread is evenly moistened.

Transfer to the slow cooker: Grease the interior of your slow cooker with cooking spray. Pour the stuffing mixture into the slow cooker. Spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking.

Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the stuffing is heated through and cooked to your desired texture. Stir occasionally, if possible, to ensure even cooking.

Serve: Once cooked, fluff the stuffing with a fork and serve hot. Garnish as desired.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 200 calories
• Sugar: 4 grams
• Fat: 10 grams
• Saturated Fat: 10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 25 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Protein: 5 grams