I absolutely adore holiday flavors, but I don’t love the oven real estate battle!
This Pepperidge Farm stuffing crockpot recipe for Cranberry Sage Slow Pot is my go-to for perfectly moist, flavorful results. Imagine the incredible aroma of savory sage and sweet cranberries filling your home with this easy dinner idea. It brings warm, hearty comfort to your family table with minimal fuss. This recipe is a godsend for busy weeknights, or for holiday hosts wanting to free up their oven for other dishes.
What You’ll Need (Ingredients & Why They Matter)
- Pepperidge Farm Herb Seasoned Stuffing Mix (Cranberry Sage variety): One (14 oz / 397g) bag – The star, providing classic, convenient, and family-friendly flavor.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: 3 cups (710ml) – Adds essential moisture and rich, savory depth. (Use low-sodium broth for a healthier twist.)
- Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (113g) plus 2 tablespoons (28g) – For luscious flavor and tender texture. (Plant-based butter works for dairy-free!)
- Yellow Onion: 1 medium (about 1 cup / 160g diced) – Provides a sweet and savory aromatic base.
- Celery: 2 stalks (about 1 cup / 100g diced) – Adds a fresh, crisp texture and essential savory notes.
- Culinary Extras for Extra Flair:
- Fresh Rosemary or Thyme: 1 tablespoon chopped – Elevates the aromatic profile for a premium ingredient feel.
- Extra Dried Cranberries: 1/4 cup (35g) – For additional bursts of sweet-tart flavor.
- Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: 1/2 cup (55g) – Adds delightful crunch and richness.
How to Make Pepperidge Farm Cranberry Sage Slow Pot Stuffing Step by Step
- Prep Your Veggies: Finely dice 1 medium onion and 2 stalks of celery. Sauté in 2 tablespoons (28g) butter in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This builds incredible depth of flavor!
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, empty the Pepperidge Farm Cranberry Sage Stuffing mix. Add the sautéed onion and celery. Gently pour in 3 cups (710ml) broth and 1/2 cup (113g) melted butter, stirring until all stuffing pieces are thoroughly moistened.
- Load the Crockpot: Lightly grease your 6-quart slow cooker insert. For easier cleanup, I often line mine with parchment paper. Transfer the moistened Pepperidge Farm stuffing crockpot recipe mixture to the slow cooker, spreading evenly.
- Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 4-5 hours. This Pepperidge Farm stuffing crockpot recipe cooks to perfection when hot throughout with crispy edges. If your stuffing seems too dry, splash in 1-2 tablespoons more broth; if it’s too wet, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes to allow moisture to evaporate.
- Serve Warm: Gently fluff the cranberry sage slow pot stuffing with a fork and serve immediately. This easy, hearty side dish is perfect for any family dinner!
Best Ways to Enjoy This Easy Crockpot Stuffing
This slow-cooked cranberry sage stuffing isn’t just for holidays; it’s incredibly versatile for everyday meals and gatherings too.
- Everyday Uses: It makes a fantastic weeknight side with roasted chicken, a comforting addition to any casual family dinner, or portioned out for quick, satisfying lunches.
- Holiday Feasts: Free up precious oven space during Thanksgiving or Christmas by letting your slow cooker handle this incredible pepperidge farm stuffing crockpot recipe Cranberry Sage Slow Pot! It’s a true holiday lifesaver.
- Potlucks & Gatherings: Easy to transport and keeps warm beautifully, making it an ideal dish for sharing at any event.
- Perfect Pairings: Pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey or chicken, rich gravy, cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, or creamy mashed potatoes.
Nutrition & Everyday Wellness with Cranberry Sage Stuffing
Beyond its incredible flavor, this hearty stuffing offers a balanced addition to your family’s meal plan, supporting healthy eating habits.
- A Hearty, Balanced Side: This delicious stuffing provides satisfying carbohydrates and flavor to complement your main dish, contributing to easy dinner ideas.
- Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with beneficial vegetables like celery and onion, plus the natural sweetness and antioxidants of cranberries.
- Family Meal Prep Ideas: Cook a big batch for easy leftovers, perfect for wholesome meals throughout the week that reduce cooking time on busy nights.
- Comforting & Satisfying: Provides a warm, fulfilling element to any meal, making it an excellent choice for family-friendly, easy healthy recipes for dinner as a substantial side.
How This Recipe Solves Common Needs
This convenient slow cooker recipe addresses several common kitchen challenges, simplifying your cooking process, especially with this pepperidge farm stuffing crockpot recipe Cranberry Sage Slow Pot.
- Time-Saving Convenience: Its “set it and forget it” nature frees up your hands and valuable oven space, especially crucial during busy holidays or hectic weeknights.
- Reliably Delicious: This pepperidge farm stuffing crockpot recipe Cranberry Sage Slow Pot consistently delivers flavorful, perfectly moist results every single time.
- Versatile Side Dish: Easily adaptable to different dietary needs or taste preferences, making it a flexible option for diverse family tables.
- Budget-Friendly Meal: Utilizes readily available and affordable ingredients, providing a satisfying and economical meal solution for any family.
Expert Pointers and Smart Variations
Elevate your cranberry sage stuffing with these simple tips and dietary adjustments tailored for your kitchen.
- Crispier Top: For extra browning, transfer the cooked stuffing to a baking dish (like a 9″x13″ pan) and broil for 5-10 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Make Ahead Tip: You can chop and sauté your vegetables a day or two in advance. Store them covered in the fridge until ready to combine.
- Kid-Friendly Tweaks: Adjust the amount of sage for a milder flavor if your children are sensitive to herbs. My kids love it when I add a little extra sweetness with more dried cranberries, so I always keep a bag handy.
- Dietary Adjustments:
- Gluten-Free: Ensure you use a certified gluten-free stuffing mix for those with sensitivities.
- Dairy-Free: Simply swap in plant-based butter or a good quality olive oil for the dairy butter.
- High-Protein: Stir in 1 cup of cooked, crumbled ground turkey or chicken before cooking for an easy high-protein meal.
Common Questions About Cranberry Sage Slow Pot Stuffing
Can I freeze this Pepperidge Farm Stuffing Crockpot recipe for later?
Yes, cooked stuffing freezes beautifully! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) or microwave in short bursts until heated through. This makes for great meal prep recipes!
What’s the healthiest way to make crockpot stuffing?
To make it even healthier, use low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, reduce the butter slightly, and boost nutrition with extra chopped vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Choosing organic ingredients also adds a premium quality touch.
Which ingredients are best for meal prepping Pepperidge Farm stuffing?
For efficient meal prepping, cook a large batch of your pepperidge farm stuffing crockpot recipe Cranberry Sage Slow Pot. Once cooled completely, portion it into individual containers. These ready-to-heat portions are perfect for quick, healthy lunches or family dinners throughout the week.
How long does it take to cook stuffing in a slow cooker?
Generally, this recipe takes 2-3 hours on HIGH or 4-5 hours on LOW. Cooking time can vary slightly depending on your specific slow cooker model and how moist you prefer your stuffing. It should be piping hot throughout.
Can I make this cranberry sage stuffing ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire stuffing mixture (including the sautéed veggies and broth) and refrigerate it in a covered bowl overnight. The next day, simply transfer it to your slow cooker and proceed with the cooking instructions.
Do I need to soak the stuffing mix first?
No, there’s no need to soak the dry stuffing mix beforehand for this slow cooker method. The mix will naturally absorb the broth and butter, becoming perfectly tender and moist during the extended cooking process.
Can I add meat to this cranberry sage stuffing recipe?
Yes, adding meat is a fantastic way to make this stuffing a more complete meal! Fully cooked crumbled sausage (such as mild breakfast sausage or Italian sausage) or ground turkey adds a wonderful savory depth. I often stir in cooked ground turkey for an easy high-protein meal; it makes this pepperidge farm stuffing crockpot recipe Cranberry Sage Slow Pot even more substantial and a true family favorite.
This pepperidge farm stuffing crockpot recipe Cranberry Sage Slow Pot is a true game-changer for anyone wanting delicious, comforting stuffing with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for holidays, weeknights, or whenever a craving strikes, offering easy healthy meals. Pin it for later, print it for your recipe binder, or share it with a friend who loves convenient home cooking!
pepperidge farm stuffing crockpot recipe Cranberry Sage Slow Pot
- Total Time: 195 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: General
Description
This Pepperidge Farm cranberry sage stuffing recipe for the slow cooker offers perfectly moist, flavorful results, ideal for holidays or busy weeknights to free up oven space and bring warm, hearty comfort to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) bag Pepperidge Farm Herb Seasoned Stuffing Mix (Cranberry Sage variety)
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 0.5 cup plus 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion (about 1 cup diced)
- 2 stalks celery (about 1 cup diced)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary or thyme
- 0.25 cup extra dried cranberries
- 0.5 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Prep Your Veggies: Finely dice 1 medium onion and 2 stalks of celery. Sauté in 2 tablespoons (28g) butter in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This builds incredible depth of flavor!
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, empty the Pepperidge Farm Cranberry Sage Stuffing mix. Add the sautéed onion and celery. Gently pour in 3 cups (710ml) broth and 0.5 cup (113g) melted butter, stirring until all stuffing pieces are thoroughly moistened.
- Load the Crockpot: Lightly grease your 6-quart slow cooker insert. For easier cleanup, I often line mine with parchment paper. Transfer the moistened Pepperidge Farm stuffing crockpot recipe mixture to the slow cooker, spreading evenly.
- Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 4-5 hours. This Pepperidge Farm stuffing crockpot recipe cooks to perfection when hot throughout with crispy edges. (If your stuffing seems too dry, splash in 1-2 tablespoons more broth; if it is too wet, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes to allow moisture to evaporate.)
- Serve Warm: Gently fluff the cranberry sage slow pot stuffing with a fork and serve immediately. This easy, hearty side dish is perfect for any family dinner!
Notes
For easier cleanup, line your slow cooker with parchment paper. Adjust moisture during cooking by adding broth if dry or removing the lid if too wet. Use low-sodium broth for a healthier twist or plant-based butter for dairy-free.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 0.5 cup (125 g)
- Calories: 320 calories
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
Keywords: slow cooker, stuffing, cranberry, sage, holiday, easy, side dish, Pepperidge Farm, crockpot, comfort food