If you’re looking for a cozy side dish to elevate your holiday table, look no further than this delightful Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it combines sweet and savory flavors in the most comforting way. Plus, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something special without the fuss.

The best part? You can set it and forget it! Just toss everything in the Crock Pot, and let it work its magic while you focus on other dishes (or enjoy a little downtime). Trust me, this stuffing will bring smiles to your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious stuffing ready to go!
Family Favorite: The sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans make this dish a hit with both kids and adults.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time; it fits seamlessly into any holiday spread or weeknight dinner.
Versatile Flavors: This stuffing pairs well with turkey, chicken, or even as a standalone dish at a vegetarian feast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating that delicious flavor profile we crave during the holidays.

For the Stuffing Mixture

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

For the Liquid Mixture

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

Variations

This recipe is flexible! Feel free to switch things up based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

Add Fresh Herbs: Toss in some chopped fresh parsley or thyme for an extra flavor boost.
Try Different Nuts: Replace pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
Incorporate Veggies: Add diced carrots or celery for more texture and flavor.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread cubes instead of regular stuffing.

How to Make Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Start by tossing your cubed stuffing, leeks, dried cranberries, golden raisins, and chopped pecans in a sprayed 5-quart Crock Pot. This step is crucial because mixing these dry ingredients ensures that every bite is full of flavor and texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Liquid Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, melted butter, beaten egg, ground mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour this mixture over the bread mixture in the Crock Pot and gently fold everything together to ensure that all the bread cubes soak up that tasty liquid.

Step 3: Cook Until Perfectly Done

Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until your stuffing reaches an internal temperature of 165°. This slow cooking allows all those wonderful flavors to meld beautifully while maintaining that comforting texture we love.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing! It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

Making the perfect stuffing can be a breeze with just a few handy tips! Here are some suggestions to enhance your Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing experience.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh leeks and high-quality broth can elevate the flavors, making your stuffing more vibrant and delicious. Fresh ingredients also add a lovely texture to the dish.
Customize your mix-ins: Feel free to add other nuts or dried fruits based on your preference. Walnuts or almonds can complement the pecans, while cherries or apricots can bring additional sweetness and variety.
Don’t skip the egg: The beaten egg helps bind the stuffing, giving it a delightful texture that’s moist without being mushy. It also helps achieve that perfect golden color when cooked.
Check for doneness: Using a thermometer is key! Ensure your stuffing reaches an internal temperature of 165° for food safety, so you can enjoy every bite without worry.
Let it rest before serving: Allowing the stuffing to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste and texture.

How to Serve Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

Serving your Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing in an inviting way can make all the difference during mealtime. Here are some ideas to present this delightful dish beautifully!

Garnishes

Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
Cranberry sauce drizzle: A light drizzle of cranberry sauce on top provides an extra burst of flavor that complements the stuffing perfectly.
Toasted pecans: Scatter some toasted pecans over the top just before serving for added crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Roasted vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes adds earthy flavors that pair wonderfully with the sweetness of your stuffing.
Green bean almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with slivered almonds bring a nice crunch and a touch of elegance to your meal.
Creamy mashed potatoes: Velvety mashed potatoes provide comfort and balance out the textures in this festive meal, making every bite enjoyable.
Simple mixed greens salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast that enhances your holiday spread.

Enjoy serving this heartwarming dish at your next gathering! Your guests will appreciate the thoughtful combination of flavors and textures.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and store it, making your holiday cooking a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

Let the stuffing cool completely after cooking.
Place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

Thaw the stuffing in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
Reheat in the microwave or place in a baking dish covered with foil, warming it in an oven set at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans in the Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing?

Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just chop them up similarly and mix them into your stuffing.

How long can I keep Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing in the fridge?

You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness!

Can I make Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing without egg?

Yes, you can omit the egg if you’re looking for an egg-free version. The stuffing will still hold together nicely thanks to the broth and melted butter.

What can I serve with Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing?

This stuffing pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, turkey, or chicken. It also makes a delightful addition to any festive meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Crock Pot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing as much as I do! It’s a wonderful blend of sweet and savory flavors that will surely impress your family and friends during the holidays. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients, and remember—cooking is all about joy and sharing. Happy cooking!