Thanksgiving Day should be a day for both the cook and the family to relax, but oftentimes, the cook spends the better part of the day in the kitchen. At least, that’s what used to happen in my house until I realized that so many of the Thanksgiving dishes could be prepared ahead of time. After all, that’s what the stores do that sell Thanksgiving side dishes. This Thanksgiving is the first one that we will cooking gluten-free. Last year, I had no idea that one of my sons had a wheat allergy. So, I have been a bit stressed about making sure I can continue our Thanksgiving traditions without sacrificing flavor, but making it completely gluten-free.
The past few weeks, I’ve been experimenting with our family favorites for Thanksgiving side dishes. Although I like to mix things up, I’ve found that my kids really like to have the same thing year after year. It’s the one time of year that they want to be served the same thing all the time. Dressing or stuffing is one of their favorites. After all, I don’t think I know anyone who doesn’t like stuffing. There are so many variations on stuffing, almost anything can be added. I like to keep it pretty simple since there are so many other side dishes to enjoy.
I decided to make Mushroom Cornbread Stuffing this year. Since I’d never made stuffing with gluten-free cornbread or bread, I wasn’t sure how it would turn out, so I made a batch of stuffing the other day. For fun, I made a few of them into muffins, simply baking the stuffing in muffin tins. That way, the inside would stay moist, but there would be plenty of crust for everyone. Just pour a little gravy on top and you’re all set.
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juniakk @ mis pensamientos says
ahhh another bookmarked recipe. honestly, i have yet to make a stuffing recipe that was a hit. it’s always the dish that is barely touched! maybe putting it in little bite sized muffins will make it more appetizing. maybe its a korean thing – our family and friends don’t really like the traditional casseroles, mac and cheese, nor stuffing! :T i usually stick with roasted veggies, a turkey, creamed corn, mashed potatoes, creamcheese pumpkin pie, and a nice assortment of appetizers! oh and some korean soup hahah.
Jeanette says
So funny – my mom used to make glutinous rice stuffing and the traditional stuffing because she didn’t like the American stuffing. Your Thanksgiving menu sounds yummy! – would love to know what Korean soup you’re making.
Kalyn says
What a great idea for Gluten-Free stuffing. I made stuffing muffins last year and everyone really liked them!
Jeanette says
I do think the stuffing muffins are a fun idea, and great for entertaining since the portions are already set.
Lydia (The Perfect Pantry) says
I’ve turned leftover stuffing into muffins, but never served them as part of the Thanksgiving meal. What a great idea — I think our grandkids would love having their own little stuffing muffin!
Pretend Chef says
What a unique way to make the stuffing. I bet I would love these. Great for Thanksgiving.
Kristina says
such a great idea – I love the alternative to a big bowl of stuffing! looks like a delicious recipe…
Alison @ Ingredients, Inc. says
omg what a great idea!!
marla says
Such a fun way to prepare stuffing! Cornbread always adds a nice twist.
Jeanette says
Thanks Marla – it is fun, especially for kids and for portion control 😉
EA-The Spicy RD says
Fabulous idea to turn stuffing in to muffins! Although, I probably only have it once a year at Thanksgiving, stuffing is my favorite part of the meal 🙂 Can’t wait to try this recipe out!
Jeanette says
It was fun making muffins out of stuffing – my kids really enjoyed them. Lots of crust for everyone!
Diane {Created by Diane} says
I love stuffing muffins 🙂 cute and delicious these look GREAT!
Joanne says
I MUCH prefer the idea of stuffing in muffins instead of a huge casserole…portion control! I’ll also take cornbread over regular bread anyday. This sounds amazing! A tradition I think you’ll definitely want to continue.
Jeanette says
Stuffing muffins are definitely a good way to control portions!
Shirley @ gfe says
Brilliant, Jeanette! Individually sized, moist, cute … just irresistible really. 😉
Off to share …
Shirley
Jeanette says
Thanks Shirley – you are sweet. Appreciate the share!
brenda says
These look great!! Can’t wait to try them!! I have a cornbread mix from Bob’s Red Mill that makes a 9×9″ pan. Do you think the amount would be about the same as the 12 muffins from the Pamela’s Mix? I’d love for you to share the rice stuffing recipe your mom made as well!!
Jeanette says
Bob’s Red Mill doesn’t make as much as Pamelas, so you might need more depending on how many muffins you’re trying to make. This recipe is super flexible. You can also mix in some gluten-free bread that’s been cut into cubes and toasted. Wish I had my mom’s rice stuffing mix – it’s made with glutinous rice (sticky rice), dried shitake mushrooms and chestnuts.
France @ Beyond The Peel says
My first Thanks Giving I hosted I made cornbread stuffing. It was delicious. I love these little muffins. Too cute and ready to serve. The only thing better than stuffing is stuffing you can eat with your hands!
Kathy says
Genius idea!! My aunt’s family loves to celebrate Thanksgiving, however, some or most of the dishes aren’t exactly healthy. Making this would be awesome and healthy for a day of hearty eating!
Jeanette says
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday of the year. There is so much food, that even if you can lighten up a few of the dishes, it’s healthier. This time of year, it is so easy to over indulge, so my plan is to lighten up as much of the holiday fare as possible and indulge in foods that I really love.
Jeffie says
this is perfect!
Roxana GreenGirl {A little bit of everything} says
Since I don’t cook turkey I may have no reason to make stuffing but i think your muffin would make a great breakfast also. Hubby doesn’t eat mushroom, I guess I have to divide the recipe and make just for me and Tiffany.
Jeanette says
This dressing is super versatile. If your husband doesn’t like mushrooms, just add your favorite stuffing ingredients – chestnuts would be nice too (I meant to add them but forgot ;)).
Curt says
What an awesome recipe. Cornbread stuffing in a muffin form. I’ll have to pin this one for memory!
Jeanette says
Thanks Curt – and Happy Thanksgiving!
Adrienne says
Loved the idea but my family requested sausage. I added a half pound of sweet Italian sausage and a half pound of turkey sage sausage from Whole Foods. I also increased the broth to a full cup. I think the muffins would have been a bit dry without these additions. I made them a day ahead; hopefully they will reheat well tomorrow!
Jeanette says
Adrienne – glad to hear you tried this – the muffin idea is fun and I think your family will enjoy it. It is a super versatile recipe, so you can add your family favorites, and adjust the liquid depending on whether you like your stuffing on the dryer or wetter side. I did not think they were dry, but our tastes may be a bit different than other families. I figure the gravy will moisten the stuffing 😉
Jane says
Can these be made without eggs? What would you substitute??? Thanks, they look amazing.
Jeanette says
Jane, the eggs help bind the muffins together. You could try a flaxseed gel by mixing ground flaxseed and water.
Liz says
I love this recipe. Thank you, Jeanette.
Jeanette says
Thanks Liz – it’s a fun way to serve stuffing.