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Cheater Stuffing – How to Jazz Up Boxed Stuffing

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A quick and flavorful way to elevate boxed stuffing mix with fresh ingredients and savory seasonings.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 box (6 oz) chicken-flavor stuffing mix
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (~1 cup)
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped (~1 cup)
  • 1 apple, diced (sweet-tart variety)
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and celery; sauté 5–7 minutes until softened.
  2. Add diced apple, dried fruit, thyme, pepper, and garlic powder; cook 2–3 more minutes to soften apples.
  3. In a saucepan, bring chicken broth and water to a simmer.
  4. Remove skillet from heat; stir in stuffing mix until combined.
  5. Pour hot broth mixture over stuffing mixture; gently toss to moisten.
  6. Cover skillet or baking dish; let stand 5 minutes to absorb liquid.
  7. Fluff with fork; garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use turkey or vegetable broth instead if preferred.
  • Substitute pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
  • Add cooked sausage or diced cooked chicken for a heartier dish.
  • For a deeper flavor, bake at 350°F for 10 minutes after fluffing.
  • Adjust dried fruit sweetness to taste: try apricots or cherries.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://easy-tapas-recipes.com/cheater-stuffing-how-to-jazz-up-boxed-stuffing/