Description
This easy stovetop stuffing recipe, Sage Cranberry Jewels, is a comforting and special side dish, perfect for busy weeknights. It combines aromatic sage with sweet cranberries, offering beloved crispy edges and a moist, flavorful center.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 box (6 oz) stovetop stuffing mix
- 4 tbsp (57 g) unsalted butter (or olive oil for a dairy-free option)
- 1 medium (about 1 cup / 160 g) yellow onion, diced
- 2 large (about 1 cup / 100 g) celery stalks, diced
- 1.5 cups (360 ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp (about 8 g) fresh sage, chopped
- 0.5 cup (60 g) dried cranberries (dried cherries or golden raisins can also stand in)
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Sauté Aromatics: Melt 4 tbsp (57g) butter in a large 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and celery stalks. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and become wonderfully fragrant.
- Add Broth: Pour in 1.5 cups (360ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle simmer, just until small bubbles appear around the edges.
- Combine Ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the stovetop stuffing mix, 2 tbsp (8g) chopped fresh sage, and 0.5 cup (60g) dried cranberries. Mix gently until just combined (do not overmix, as this can lead to a gummy texture).
- Cover and Absorb: Cover the skillet tightly and let it stand undisturbed for 5 minutes, allowing the liquid to absorb fully into the stuffing mix. If it looks dry, splash in 1-2 Tbsp (15-30ml) more broth before fluffing to achieve ideal moisture.
- Fluff and Serve: Fluff the stovetop stuffing with a fork to separate the grains and release steam. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter or olive oil. Swap fresh sage for dried (use 2 tsp) or a blend of thyme and rosemary. Consider adding a pinch of poultry seasoning for extra holiday flavor. Don’t overmix to avoid a gummy texture; gently fold ingredients. For an extra crispy topping, transfer to a baking dish and bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 150 g)
- Calories: 280 calories
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: easy stovetop stuffing, sage, cranberries, side dish, quick meal, family favorite, comfort food, speedy prep, aromatic, savory