Brown Butter Stuffing
Prep Time
7 minsCook Time
18 minsFree Time
to watch the Thanksgiving Day parade
According to our founder, Steph, figuring out this brown-butter twist on stovetop stuffing was game-changing! Now that this family-favorite stuffing recipe can be made in the microwave, Steph’s Thanksgiving feast now includes double — sometimes even triple — the stuffing that it used to.
All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work— and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.
What You’ll Need
What You’ll Need
The Large Deep Dish
The Anyhand Mitts
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, diced
- ⅓ cup (40g) diced carrot (optional)
- ⅓ cup (40g) diced celery (optional)
- ⅓ cup (40g) diced onion (optional)
- 1 12-ounce package store bought stuffing (such as Pepperidge Farm)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
Preparation
- Place the butter in a Large Deep Anyday dish. Cover with the lid slightly ajar. (Note: you don’t want to fully cover the Anyday because otherwise the lid won’t allow the moisture in the butter to evaporate and therefore it won’t brown! But you also don’t want butter to splatter all over your microwave, so having the lid ajar is a happy medium.)
- Cook in the microwave for about 7-8 minutes, or until butter smells fragrant and nutty and turns golden brown. You will definitely hear popping sounds while the water in the butter bubbles and evaporates — that is normal! The lid should prevent any butter from escaping.
- Add carrot, celery, and onion (if using) to the brown butter and cover. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the veggies are soft and fragrant. (If omitting, skip to the next step.)
- Add the chicken or vegetable stock and rosemary and cook in the microwave for 5-6 minutes, or until the stock is hot.
- Stir in the stuffing mix. Fluff with a fork and serve.
Serving suggestions & tips
- Elegant twist: Add diced apple, dried cranberries, and pine nuts for a sweet, nutty, and refined flavor combination.
- Savory and tangy alternative: Mix in cooked sausage, cooked mushrooms, and dried cherries for a balance of savory and tangy flavors.
- Cheesy indulgence: Mix in shredded Gruyère or sharp cheddar for a rich, cheesy version.
- Bacon bliss: Mix in crumbled crispy bacon, for a smoky, savory twist.
Recipe notes
- To prepare this recipe ahead, make our Brown Butter recipe and store it in 2 Tablespoon Anytime Trays! Freeze overnight and pop out a frozen puck when you’re ready to make this dish.
- If you want a toasted top, place in a 500°F preheated oven until the stuffing is toasted.
- Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.
All You Need to Know About Making Brown Butter Stuffing in the Microwave
What is brown butter stuffing?
Brown butter stuffing is a rich and flavorful version of traditional bread stuffing made by browning butter to give it a nutty, caramelized flavor. This microwave version offers all the flavors of stovetop stuffing with the ease and speed of microwave cooking, making it a perfect side dish for perfect for any holiday or weeknight meal.
Can I cook brown butter stuffing in the microwave?
Absolutely! Using an Anyday dish, you can make brown butter stuffing quickly in the microwave. The microwave browns the butter perfectly and allows the stuffing to absorb the stock and flavors, saving time compared to traditional stovetop cooking. Anyday dishes make it easy to cook, serve, store, and reheat, simplifying holiday meals or any meal.
What is mirepoix, and how does it make stuffing better?
Mirepoix is a traditional French mixture of diced onions, carrots, and celery, cooked together to create a flavorful base for many dishes. Adding mirepoix to the stuffing enhances the flavor, bringing a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish. and you can make it super quick in the microwave. The combination of these vegetables adds moisture and texture, making the stuffing more aromatic and delicious. Make a large batch or mirepoix and freeze it in our silicone Anytime Freezer Trays, then use it as needed!
How long can I store brown butter stuffing in the fridge?
Brown butter stuffing can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in an Anyday dish. Once the stuffing is ready, allow it to cool, then cover it with the Anyday lid and refrigerate. The silicone-lined lid helps keep the stuffing fresh and flavorful.
What’s the best way to reheat brown butter stuffing?
The best way to reheat brown butter stuffing is in the microwave using an Anyday dish. Reheat on full power for 2-4 minutes, or until heated through. To check if it's ready, insert a fork into the center and carefully test the heat by touching it to your lips, making sure not to burn yourself. If you prefer a crunchy top, you can finish it in a 500-degree oven for a few minutes to crisp up the surface.
Can I add vegetables to brown butter stuffing?
Yes, you can add vegetables to this stuffing! Add diced parsnips, pumpkin, and mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. Make sure to cook the vegetables in the microwave along with the other vegetables until they’re soft and fragrant before adding them to the stuffing mix.
Why does the butter need to be browned with the lid slightly ajar?
Leaving the lid slightly ajar allows moisture to escape while the butter browns, which is essential for achieving that nutty, caramelized flavor. Fully covering the dish would trap moisture and prevent the butter from browning, while leaving the lid slightly open still protects the microwave from splatters.
