Upgraded Boxed Stuffing for Thanksgiving

Ingredients

• 2 packet Boxed stuffing mix (Any brand (Kroger, Stove Top, etc.), about 12 oz each)
• 0.5 stick Unsalted butter (Half a stick (4 Tbsp, ~57 g), cut into pieces)
• 2 medium Apples (Diced, skin left on for color (Honeycrisp or Fuji work well))
• 1 medium Yellow onion (Finely diced)
• 1 tsp Fresh thyme (Leaves only, roughly chopped)
• 0.5 tsp Black pepper (Freshly ground)
• 3 stalk Scallions (green parts only) (Chopped)
• 1 cup Chicken broth or stock (Low‑sodium preferred; use more if mixture seems dry)
• to taste Salt (Optional; boxed stuffing is already salty)

Instructions

1. Prep the produce

   Dice the apples and onion into uniform bite‑size pieces. Chop the green tops of the scallions. Set everything aside.

   Time: PT10M

2. Melt the butter

   Place half a stick of butter in the skillet over medium heat and melt it, stirring occasionally.

   Time: PT5M

3. Sauté apples and onion

   Add the diced apples and onion to the melted butter. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and the apples have softened, about 10 minutes.

   Time: PT10M

4. Season

   Stir in the fresh thyme leaves and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for another minute.

   Time: PT1M

5. Incorporate the stuffing mix

   Empty both packets of the boxed stuffing into the skillet. Toss thoroughly so every crumb is coated with the butter‑apple mixture.

   Time: PT3M

6. Add liquid and scallions

   Add the chopped scallion greens and the cup of chicken broth. Mix quickly, then press the mixture down gently with the back of a spoon to level it. The stuffing should look moist but not soupy.

   Time: PT3M

7. Transfer to baking dish

   Pour the seasoned stuffing into a 9×13‑inch baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.

   Time: PT2M

8. Bake

   Place the dish in a pre‑heated oven at 375°F. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the top is golden‑brown and crisp.

   Time: PT35M

   Temperature: 375°F

9. Rest and serve

   Remove from the oven and let the stuffing rest for 5 minutes before serving.

   Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

130

Protein

3 g

Carbohydrates

20 g

Fat

5 g

Fiber

2 g

Ingredient Substitutions

• Instead of Boxed stuffing mix: Homemade bread cubes, Seasoned croutons
• Instead of Unsalted butter: Margarine, Olive oil
• Instead of Apples: Pears
• Instead of Yellow onion: Shallots
• Instead of Fresh thyme: Dried thyme (1/3 tsp)
• Instead of Black pepper: White pepper
• Instead of Scallions (green parts only): Chives
• Instead of Chicken broth or stock: Vegetable broth
• Instead of Salt: Sea salt, Kosher salt

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board
• Chef's knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• 9×13‑inch baking dish (casserole dish)
• Oven mitts

Critical Steps — Do Not Skip

• Sauté apples and onion until softened
• Coat the stuffing mix thoroughly with butter
• Add broth and press down to achieve proper moisture
• Bake until the top is crisp and golden

Chef Tips from the Video

• Use crisp, slightly tart apples (e.g., Honeycrisp) for the best texture
• Toast the butter briefly before adding the apples for a nutty flavor
• For extra herb flavor, add a pinch of sage with the thyme

Troubleshooting

Storage

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days

Freezer: Freeze in a freezer‑safe container for up to 2 months; reheat covered at 350°F until hot

Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature for more than 2 hours

Make-Ahead Tips

• Prepare the apple‑onion mixture and combine with stuffing up to 24 hours ahead; keep refrigerated and bake fresh before serving
• The baked stuffing reheats well in a 350°F oven, covered with foil for 15‑20 minutes