Crock-Pot Dressing
A comforting and savory stuffing perfect for holiday meals or family dinners. Rich with butter, herbs, mushrooms, and tender bread crumbs, it offers warm flavors and moist texture. Suitable for oven baking or slow cooking, this versatile dish can be tailored to your taste and schedule.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter or margarine ⓘ
- 2 cups chopped onion ⓘ
- 2 cups chopped celery ⓘ
- 1/4 cup parsley ⓘ
- 2 (8 oz) cans mushrooms, drained ⓘ
- 12 to 13 cups dried bread crumbs ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning ⓘ
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sage ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon thyme ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon marjoram ⓘ
- 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 cups chicken broth ⓘ
- 2 well beaten eggs ⓘ
Instructions
- Melt butter in a skillet.
- Saute onion, celery, parsley, and mushrooms.
- Pour the sautéed mixture over bread crumbs in a large mixing bowl.
- Add seasonings and toss to mix well.
- Pour enough chicken broth over the mixture to moisten.
- Add water and well-beaten eggs and mix thoroughly.
- Pack the mixture lightly into the crock-pot.
- Cover and cook on high for 45 minutes, then on low for 4 to 8 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. You can substitute the butter with olive oil for a lighter version or use gluten-free bread crumbs for a gluten-free option. If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes. Feel free to mix in other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This Crock-Pot Dressing pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or chicken and is perfect for holiday meals. Consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes and gravy for a comforting feast. For a complete dinner, offer a fresh salad or steamed vegetables on the side. It also complements dishes like Turkey Lasagna or Savory Chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the dressing in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Dressing contains roughly 704 calories, with 17g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (92% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (87% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 852mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day in advance. Just combine all the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator. On the day of serving, pack the mixture into the crock-pot and cook according to the recipe. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works well as a substitute for chicken broth in this recipe. Additionally, you can use water with added seasonings to enhance the flavor, though using broth is recommended for the best taste.
Is it possible to freeze the dressing?
Yes, you can freeze the dressing before cooking. Pack it in an airtight container or freezer bag, leaving some space for expansion. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then cook it as directed. The texture may change slightly but it will still be delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).