Instant Pot Stuffing

Instant Pot Stuffing — This recipe will blow your mind. It’s the best stuffing ever, and it takes less than 10 minutes to make in an Instant Pot!

The ingredients are simple, but the outcome is out of this world. It’s rich in flavor and so satisfying. This recipe will be a staple for me throughout the holidays!

I have been cooking for a long time and still love experimenting with new dishes. One of my favorite cooking things is delicious turkey stuffing, but finding the right balance between moistness and crunchiness can be hard.

I recently learned about this great new gadget, Instant Pot, which has made my life much easier! It cooks food faster than any other method on the market today and has many other functions that make cooking even more fun. Check this straightforward and foolproof recipe for Instant Pot Stuffing below!

The Instant Pot is one of those inventions you never knew you needed until you had it in your kitchen. This is a great time saver for Thanksgiving dinner, and you don’t even need to pull out your frying pan. Saving you precious oven space.

I loved my new Instant Pot, which has many effortless recipes. Some of my favorites are INSTANT POT HOMEMADE HAMBURGER HELPER, INSTANT POT COLLARD GREENS, and INSTANT POT CRANBERRY SAUCE.

The Best Instant Pot Stuffing Recipe

Elevate your holiday feast with The Best Instant Pot Stuffing Recipe, a culinary masterpiece that delivers unparalleled flavor and convenience. This recipe takes the classic stuffing, infuses it with rich aromatics, and cooks it to perfection in the Instant Pot, yielding results that will leave your guests craving seconds. The Instant Pot streamlines the cooking process and ensures that each bite is a harmonious blend of moist and fluffy textures enveloped in a symphony of herbs, vegetables, and savory goodness. Whether serving it alongside a Thanksgiving turkey or as a side for any festive gathering, this Instant Pot stuffing will undoubtedly steal the spotlight and become a cherished addition to your holiday traditions.

Why Cook Stuffing In The Pressure Cooker?

Cooking stuffing in the pressure cooker offers a game-changing approach to preparing this beloved holiday side dish. The pressure cooker, often exemplified by the Instant Pot, brings several advantages. First and foremost, it significantly reduces the cooking time, turning a typically lengthy and oven-dependent process into a quick and convenient one. This means you can enjoy the savory goodness of stuffing in a fraction of the time, making it a lifesaver for busy holiday meal preparations.

Furthermore, the pressure cooker’s sealed environment locks in moisture, ensuring your stuffing is perfectly moist and flavorful. Each ingredient, from the aromatic vegetables to the stale bread, absorbs the delicious broth and herb-infused flavors, resulting in a harmonious and delectable blend. Additionally, cooking stuffing in the pressure cooker frees up valuable oven space, a precious commodity during the holidays when multiple dishes vie for attention. In essence, the pressure cooker revolutionizes the way we approach stuffing, making it faster and more consistently delicious, leaving everyone at the table craving more.

Ingredients Needed For Instant Pot Stuffing

Creating the perfect Instant Pot stuffing begins with assembling the finest ingredients. These carefully chosen elements are the building blocks of a delectable side dish that embodies the essence of holiday comfort food. Let’s explore the simple ingredients that transform your Instant Pot stuffing into a savory masterpiece.

​Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Bread Cubes: This forms the heart of your stuffing, providing a hearty and satisfying base. Choose your favorite bread, white, wheat, or a rustic artisan loaf, for a delightful texture.
• Butter: Butter adds richness and flavor, helping to achieve that perfect balance of moistness and crispness in your stuffing.
• Onion: Diced onions contribute a savory and aromatic element to the stuffing, infusing it with layers of flavor.
• Celery: Celery provides a refreshing crunch and earthy undertones that complement the other ingredients in the stuffing.
• Parsley: Fresh or dried parsley lends a touch of herbaceous brightness and color to your stuffing, enhancing its visual appeal.
• Sage: Sage is the quintessential herb for classic stuffing, imparting a warm and earthy essence that embodies the holiday spirit.
• Thyme: Thyme adds complexity with its slightly minty and citrus notes, elevating the overall flavor profile of your stuffing.
• Kosher Salt: Salt is essential for seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors of all the ingredients and making them sing harmoniously.
• Black Pepper: Pepper adds a subtle but necessary kick of warmth and spiciness to your stuffing.
• Chicken broth or Chicken stock: Chicken broth or stock provides moisture, allowing the stuffing to absorb rich, savory flavors while maintaining its desired texture. It’s the secret ingredient that ensures your stuffing is moist and delightful. For a vegan option, use vegetable broth.

These carefully selected ingredients combine to create an Instant Pot stuffing bursting with flavor and texture, making it the perfect accompaniment to your holiday feasts.

How To Make Stuffing In Instant Pot

To prepare the stuffing in your Instant Pot, begin by arranging the bread cubes on a large baking sheet and toasting them until they turn a beautiful golden brown, which should take roughly 5 minutes at 350 degrees F. Using dry bread or dried bread cubes, gives you a more flavorful dressing. 

Next, prepare the stuffing mixture: Place the room-temperature butter, diced onions, and celery inside your Instant Pot. Select the “saute” function and cook these ingredients until they become tender, which will typically take an additional 5 minutes.

Add the toasted bread cubes directly into the Instant Pot and thoroughly mix everything together. Follow this by incorporating the chicken broth, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.

If you plan to stuff your bird with the stuffing, refer to the specific instructions based on your turkey’s weight. Fill the stuffing into the pan using a greased baking pan, springform pan, or bundt pan. Alternatively, place the stuffing in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit and set cook time for 25-30 minutes if you intend to cook the stuffing separately.

Finally, plate your delectable stuffing, serve it alongside your holiday feast, and savor every flavorful bite. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this classic dish!

Recipe Variations

Elevate your Instant Pot stuffing game with these delightful recipe variations, each offering a unique twist on this classic side dish:

• Sausage and Apple Stuffing: Add cooked crumbled sausage and diced apples for a sweet and savory flavor combination that complements the traditional elements.
• Wild Mushroom Stuffing: Incorporate a variety of sautéed wild mushrooms for an earthy and umami-rich stuffing that’s perfect for mushroom lovers.
• Cranberry Pecan Stuffing: Introduce dried cranberries and toasted pecans to the mix for stuffing with a delightful balance of tartness and nutty crunch.
• Chestnut and Herb Stuffing: Roasted and peeled chestnuts, along with a medley of fresh herbs like rosemary,  poultry seasoning, celery salt, thyme, and sage, create a stuffing bursting with aromatic and nutty goodness.
• Cornbread Stuffing: Swap out traditional bread for cornbread to achieve a slightly sweet and more crumbly texture, perfect for those who adore cornbread.
• Bacon and Cheddar Stuffing: Add crispy bacon bits and shredded cheddar cheese for a decadent twist to infuse your stuffing with smoky, cheesy goodness.
• Vegan Stuffing: Create a vegan-friendly version using vegetable broth, dairy-free butter, and a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, onions, and carrots. Opt for plant-based sausage for added flavor.
• Cajun-Style Stuffing: Spice things up with Cajun seasoning, diced andouille sausage, and chopped bell peppers for a zesty and bold stuffing.
• Lemon and Herb Stuffing: Zest up your stuffing by adding fresh lemon zest and a blend of fresh herbs, such as parsley, dill, and tarragon, for a refreshing and aromatic twist.
• Rice Stuffing: Substitute bread with cooked rice for a gluten-free alternative. You can still include all your favorite stuffing ingredients for flavor.
• Quinoa and Nut Stuffing: Incorporate cooked quinoa and a mix of toasted nuts like almonds, pecans, and walnuts for a wholesome and protein-packed stuffing.
• Fruit and Nut Stuffing: Include a medley of dried fruits like apricots, raisins, and cherries, along with an assortment of nuts, to create a sweet and savory stuffing with a delightful texture.

These stuffing variations allow you to tailor this classic side dish to your taste preferences and the theme of your meal, ensuring that your Instant Pot stuffing is a standout hit at your holiday feasts.

Pro Tips

Achieving the perfect Instant Pot stuffing requires attention to detail and a few pro tips to ensure it turns out flavorful and moist. Here are some expert suggestions:

• Choose the Right Bread: Opt for day-old or slightly stale bread for the best texture. Fresh bread can become too mushy when mixed with the other ingredients.
• Size Matters: Cut the bread cubes into uniform sizes, typically around 1/2 inch, to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture.
• Sauté for Flavor: Don’t rush the sautéing step with onions and celery. Allow them to cook until they’re tender and translucent to build a strong flavor base for your stuffing.
• Butter or Oil: While butter imparts rich flavor, you can use olive oil or a combination of both for a slightly different taste.
• Customize Herbs: Experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to tailor the stuffing’s flavor to your liking. Common choices include sage, thyme, rosemary, and parsley.
• Adjust Liquid Carefully: The chicken broth, turkey broth or turkey stock amount can vary depending on your bread type and preference. Start with a conservative amount and gradually add more if needed. Remember, adding liquid is easier than correcting an overly soggy stuffing.
• Add Mix-Ins at the End: If you’re incorporating ingredients like cooked sausage, dried fruits, or nuts, add them to the mixture after sautéing and before pressure cooking to maintain their texture and flavor.
• Natural Release for Moisture: After pressure cooking, allow a natural release for a few minutes before manually releasing the pressure. This helps retain moisture and prevents dry stuffing.
• Fluff with Care: When fluffing the stuffing after cooking, use a fork or spatula rather than a spoon to avoid mashing the bread cubes.
• Serve with Garnish: For added visual appeal, consider garnishing your finished stuffing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
• Reheat Gently: If reheating leftovers, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
• Customize to Dietary Needs: Adjust the recipe to accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions, such as using gluten-free bread, dairy-free butter, or vegetable broth for vegan or gluten-free options.

With these pro tips, your Instant Pot stuffing will surely be a crowd-pleaser, whether serving it for a holiday feast or as a comforting side dish for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious flavors and comforting aroma!

Faq’s

Can I use a different type of bread for stuffing? Yes, depending on your preference, you can use various types of bread, such as white, whole wheat, cornbread, or even sourdough.

How can I make stuffing gluten-free? To make gluten-free stuffing, use gluten-free bread cubes and ensure that all other ingredients, including broth and spices, are gluten-free.

Can I prepare stuffing in advance and reheat it later? Yes, you can make stuffing in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat it gently in the microwave or oven with extra broth to retain moisture.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for vegetarian stuffing? Absolutely. Vegetable broth works well for vegetarian or vegan stuffing and imparts a delightful flavor.

Can I cook the stuffing in the Instant Pot inside the turkey? No, the Instant Pot is unsuitable for cooking stuffing inside the turkey. It’s recommended to cook stuffing separately to ensure food safety.

Can I freeze leftover stuffing? Yes, you can freeze leftover stuffing in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

How do I adjust the recipe for a smaller or larger group? You can easily scale the recipe up or down by proportionally adjusting the ingredients’ quantities. Use the same ratio of bread to other ingredients for consistent results.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs? Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for fresh herbs. Use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs called for in the recipe.

Can I make stuffing without using the sauté function in the Instant Pot? While sautéing adds flavor, you can skip this step if you prefer. Add the toasted bread cubes and other ingredients directly into the Instant Pot.

How do I prevent the stuffing from becoming too dry?– To prevent dry stuffing, use enough chicken broth to moisten the bread cubes without making them overly soggy. You can always add more broth if needed.

More Instant Pot Recipes

• INSTANT POT HOMEMADE HAMBURGER HELPER
• INSTANT POT QUINOA
• HOW TO COOK A WHOLE BUTTERNUT SQUASH IN THE PRESSURE COOKER
• INSTANT POT CARAMELIZED ONIONS
• INSTANT POT GROUND BEEF AND PASTA
• EASY INSTANT POT VEGETARIAN CHILI
• INSTANT POT MAC AND CHEESE

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