If you’re craving a clever way to transform your holiday leftovers into something absolutely irresistible, the Muffin Tin Turkey & Stuffing Cups with Gravy Recipe is your new best friend. These bite-sized delights take stuffing and turkey, combine them with a touch of egg for binding, bake them to golden perfection in a muffin tin, and then get beautifully smothered in rich turkey gravy. The result is a cozy, comforting snack that’s crispy on the edges, tender inside, and packed with all those beloved fall flavors you want to savor long after the big feast is over. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be making them year-round whenever you have any turkey and stuffing to spare!
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how just a handful of simple ingredients can come together to create such a satisfying dish. Each item plays a vital role, delivering texture, flavor, and moisture that makes these cups so delightful to bite into.
- Stuffing (1 package or 2-3 cups cooked): This forms the hearty base filled with herbs and seasoning that define the classic taste.
- Turkey (1-2 cups cooked and chopped): Adds tender, savory protein that brings the meal to life.
- Egg (1, whisked): Acts as a binder to keep your cups perfectly shaped and moist inside.
- Turkey gravy (1 cup prepared): The luscious finishing touch for dipping or drizzling, delivering comforting warmth.
- Non-stick spray: Ensures easy release from your muffin pan and keeps the bottoms crispy.
How to Make Muffin Tin Turkey & Stuffing Cups with Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Begin by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray your muffin pan with non-stick spray so your stuffing cups will come out clean and crisp without sticking to the sides. This small step makes a big difference when it’s time to unmold your bites.
Step 2: Mix Your Filling
Grab a bowl and toss together the cooked stuffing, chopped turkey, and whisked egg. The egg is key here—it binds all the ingredients so your stuffing cups hold their shape while baking. Make sure everything is combined well for an even flavor and texture in every cup.
Step 3: Fill the Muffin Cups
Spoon the mixture into each prepared compartment of the muffin tin, pressing firmly to compact it. This helps create a solid yet tender base that browns nicely on top. Don’t be shy with your pressing—it really helps the structure once baked.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place your muffin pan in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for beautifully golden tops with a slightly crispy edge. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage is something you’ll want to bottle up and save forever.
Step 5: Cool and Release
Once baked, let the cups cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This rest time helps them firm up just enough so they hold together when removed. Run a sharp knife around each cup to loosen it from the pan edges, then gently lift them out and plate up.
Step 6: Add the Gravy
Warm up your turkey gravy just before serving. Drizzle it generously over each cup or serve on the side for dipping. The rich, savory gravy enhances every bite, tying all those flavors into pure indulgence.
How to Serve Muffin Tin Turkey & Stuffing Cups with Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or sage leaves on top of your muffin cups for a burst of color and fresh herbal fragrance. A small dollop of cranberry sauce on the side also adds a lovely tang that lifts the savory notes of the turkey and stuffing.
Side Dishes
These cups are fantastic as an appetizer or snack on their own, but if you want to turn them into a fuller meal, serve with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables. Think bright green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple mixed greens salad tossed in vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or holiday gatherings, line a rustic wooden board with parchment paper and arrange the muffin cups in a tight cluster, then drizzle with gravy and garnishes right before serving. Alternatively, offer mini ramekins of gravy on the side to let everyone personalize their dipping experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After cooling completely, place any leftover muffin tin turkey and stuffing cups in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick snack or second helpings during the next couple of days.
Freezing
If you want to stash some for longer, wrap each cup individually in plastic wrap, then place them all in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
Warm your leftovers in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 to 15 minutes. This method crisps them up nicely without drying out the turkey or stuffing. You can also microwave them briefly, but the oven is the way to keep that satisfying texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade stuffing for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade stuffing works beautifully and adds a personal touch. Just make sure it’s cooked and cooled before combining with turkey and egg to ensure your cups hold together perfectly.
What if I’m out of gravy? Can I make a substitute?
If you don’t have gravy on hand, a quick pan sauce made by simmering turkey drippings with a bit of flour and broth can work wonderfully. Or a rich mushroom gravy provides a tasty vegetarian-friendly alternative.
Can I add other ingredients to the stuffing cups?
Definitely get creative—add chopped veggies like sautéed mushrooms or cranberries for sweetness, or a sprinkle of cheese for extra richness. Just keep proportions balanced so the cups still set properly when baked.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes! These cups are perfect for making ahead and enjoying during the week. They reheat well and make for a nutritious, hearty snack or light meal anytime you want a comforting bite.
What’s the best way to make sure the cups don’t stick to the pan?
Using a good coating of non-stick spray is essential. Also, letting the cups cool sufficiently in the pan before trying to remove them helps prevent breakage or sticking. Running a knife around the edges is a handy tip too!
Final Thoughts
If you love finding new ways to celebrate your leftovers, the Muffin Tin Turkey & Stuffing Cups with Gravy Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s fun, simple, and delivers so much flavor in a neat little package that feels like a hug from your favorite holiday meal. Give it a go and watch these tasty morsels become your new go-to snack whenever you want a little comfort and joy from your kitchen.
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Muffin Tin Turkey & Stuffing Cups with Gravy Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffin cups
Description
Transform your leftover turkey and stuffing into delightful muffin tin cups that are perfect for appetizers or snacks. These turkey and stuffing cups are baked until golden and served with warm turkey gravy for an irresistible bite that makes the most out of your holiday leftovers.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 package or 2–3 cups cooked stuffing
- 1–2 cups cooked and chopped turkey
- 1 egg, whisked
- 1 cup prepared turkey gravy
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and prepare a muffin pan by spraying it thoroughly with non-stick spray to ensure easy removal later.
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, stir together the cooked stuffing, chopped turkey, and whisked egg until the mixture is well combined. This ensures the egg binds the ingredients together during baking.
- Fill Muffin Pan: Press the mixture firmly into each cup of the prepared muffin pan, ensuring the cups are evenly filled to create uniform baking and a golden crust.
- Bake: Bake the cups in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the tops turn golden brown, which indicates they are cooked through and crispy on top.
- Cool and Release: Allow the muffin cups to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully run a sharp knife around each cup to loosen and release them from the pan without breaking.
- Serve: Plate the turkey and stuffing cups, generously top each with warm turkey gravy, and serve immediately for a comforting and delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Make sure the turkey and stuffing are both fully cooked before starting.
- Pressing firmly into the muffin pan is key for the cups to hold their shape.
- Allow the cups to cool slightly before removing to prevent crumbling.
- Leftover mashed potatoes can be added to the mixture for extra moisture and flavor.
- Use homemade gravy or a quality store-bought gravy depending on convenience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
