Step 1: Prepare the Bread

1. Choose Your Bread:

The type of bread you use will greatly influence the flavor and texture of your stuffing muffins. A mix of white, whole wheat, and sourdough adds complexity, but you can use whatever bread you prefer.

2. Cube the Bread:

Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. You want enough to make about 10 cups of bread cubes. For best results, use slightly stale or day-old bread, as it absorbs the liquid better.

3. Dry the Bread:

If your bread is fresh, spread the cubes on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to dry them out. This step helps the bread absorb the broth and flavors without becoming too soggy.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Sauté the Onions and Celery:

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, and sauté until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

2. Add the Garlic and Herbs:

Stir in the minced garlic, sage, thyme, and parsley. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning (if using).

Step 3: Assemble the Stuffing Mixture

1. Combine the Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables. Toss everything together to evenly distribute the veggies and herbs throughout the bread.

2. Add the Broth and Eggs:

Pour 1 cup of broth and the beaten eggs over the bread mixture. Gently stir everything together until the bread is evenly moistened. If the mixture seems too dry, add more broth, a little at a time, until the bread is well-saturated but not soggy.

3. Add the Melted Butter:

Drizzle the melted butter over the stuffing mixture, stirring to combine. The butter adds richness and helps bind the stuffing together.

Step 4: Fill the Muffin Tin

1. Prepare the Muffin Tin:

Grease a 12-cup muffin tin generously with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent the muffins from sticking.

2. Spoon in the Stuffing Mixture:

Divide the stuffing mixture evenly among the 12 muffin cups, packing the stuffing down slightly so that it holds together during baking. Each muffin cup should be filled to the top.

3. Optional Toppings:

If desired, top each muffin with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a small pat of butter for extra flavor and crunch.

Step 5: Bake the Stuffing Muffins

1. Bake:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the stuffing muffins for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.

2. Cool Slightly:

Once the muffins are done, allow them to cool in the muffin tin for about 5 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes it easier to remove them from the tin.

3. Remove from the Tin:

Carefully run a knife around the edges of each muffin to loosen it, then gently lift them out of the tin. Transfer the muffins to a serving platter.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Stuffing Muffins warm with your favorite holiday sides like gravy, cranberry sauce, or herbed butter. These muffins are perfect on their own or as part of a full holiday meal.

How to Serve

• As a Side Dish: These muffins make an excellent side for roast turkey, chicken, ham, or beef. Serve them with a ladle of gravy for an extra indulgent touch.
• On a Holiday Buffet: Stuffing muffins are ideal for buffet-style meals, where guests can easily grab an individual portion. They pair beautifully with cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and roasted vegetables.
• For Thanksgiving Leftovers: Use leftover stuffing muffins as the base for a Thanksgiving leftover sandwich. Split the muffins in half and layer them with turkey, cranberry sauce, and gravy between two slices of bread.