The Perfect Thanksgiving Side Dish
Thanksgiving is knocking on the door, and you know what that means? The aroma of roasting turkey, the crunch of cranberries, and… the magical warmth of a slow cooker stuffing, ready to soak up every last bit of deliciousness. Now, I’m not talking about some run-of-the-mill stuffing; we’re going for Mrs. Cubbison’s version, a recipe that has been passed down through generations and perfected over time.
Imagine this: your kitchen is filled with the comforting warmth of the slow cooker, its gentle hum a soundtrack to the entire Thanksgiving celebration. A fragrant cloud of herbs and spices hangs in the air – thyme, sage, rosemary – all mingling together like an old-timey symphony. You take a deep breath, and suddenly you’re transported back to your grandma’s kitchen, surrounded by her warm smiles and the comforting sounds of family gatherings.
Mrs. Cubbison’s stuffing recipe isn’t just about blending flavors; it’s about creating memories. It’s about the sense of warmth and familiarity that accompanies every bite, a taste that takes you back to childhood and makes you feel like you’re right at home. It’s about shared laughter, stories told over the dinner table, and the undeniable magic of a perfectly cooked meal.
This recipe isn’t just about following instructions; it’s about understanding the layers of flavor that make this stuffing so special. It’s a symphony of textures – the fluffy bread, the savory sausage, the tangy cranberry sauce, and the rich celery and onion flavors. Each element plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance.
The beauty of Mrs. Cubbison’s slow cooker stuffing lies in its simplicity: Just throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do its thing for a few hours. No need to fuss with complicated techniques or multiple steps – this recipe is all about ease, comfort, and pure indulgence.
Let’s dive deeper into the heart of this classic stuffing recipe:
**Ingredients:**
1 loaf crusty bread (about 6 cups cubed)
1 lb. ground beef or sausage
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 box of dried stuffing mix (like Uncle Ben’s)
1 can of chicken broth
1 can of cranberry sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 bay leaf (optional, for extra flavor)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until cooked through; drain any excess grease.
3. Add the chopped celery and onion to the skillet with the meat. Cook for about 5 minutes, until softened.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, sausage/beef mixture, stuffing mix, chicken broth, cranberry sauce, salt, pepper and bay leaf (optional). Stir it all together well.
5. Pour the stuffing mixture into your slow cooker.
6. Cover and cook on low for at least 3 hours or high for 2-1/2 hours. Check in about halfway through to stir it around, just to make sure everything is cooked evenly.
You’ll know your stuffing is ready when the mixture is heated through, the bread is golden brown on top, and it smells divine; a true testament to comfort food magic.
**Serving:**
Serve this warm, with gravy (if desired) on the side. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of elegance to your presentation. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete Thanksgiving meal.
**Tips:**
* For an even richer flavor, add some chopped dried herbs like sage and thyme to the stuffing mixture.
* If you want a slightly crispier texture, add a tablespoon of butter to the top of the stuffing mixture before cooking.
* Try adding different varieties of sausage – Italian-style, chorizo, or even breakfast sausage – for added flavor and versatility.
Mrs. Cubbison’s slow cooker stuffing is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to gather with loved ones. It’s a reminder of the warmth and togetherness that Thanksgiving represents, and a delicious way to celebrate this beloved holiday.
