Buzz
Stuffing is a Thanksgiving favorite—always the star side dish, and often made in large quantities to ensure there are leftovers for days to come. When it’s time to reheat it after the feast, doing so the right way can ensure it maintains its flavor and texture without turning dry.
This guide walks you through the best ways to reheat stuffing, whether in the oven, on the stovetop, or in the microwave. Additionally, it covers how to prepare the stuffing ahead of time so you can focus more on enjoying the day with your family. Don’t forget to try out these creative recipes for leftover stuffing afterward.
How to Reheat Stuffing in the Oven
If your stuffing has already been baked—whether by you or a local restaurant providing a pre-made version—there’s no need to worry. Allow the stuffing to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes for even reheating. Preheat your oven to 350°F, cover the dish, and warm it for 30 to 40 minutes. For a crispy top, uncover the dish during the last 10 minutes of reheating. If it seems too dry, add a splash of stock or turkey drippings to bring back moisture.
Reheating Frozen Stuffing in the Oven
Reheating your stuffing straight from the freezer is straightforward, and it doesn't need to thaw. Start by preheating your oven to 350 °F. Once it's hot, take the stuffing out of the freezer and, if necessary, place it in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil and bake until it's heated through, which could take up to an hour. Once warmed, remove the foil and let the stuffing crisp up for 10 to 15 minutes.
How to Reheat Stuffing on the Stovetop
If you prefer a quicker method than the oven, reheat your stuffing on the stovetop. Take out the portion you want and add it to a pan. For added moisture, consider adding a little oil or butter to the pan. Cook the stuffing over medium heat for about 5 minutes until it's evenly heated, with a golden-brown, crispy texture.
How to Reheat Stuffing in the Microwave
Though it's the quickest option, we suggest using the microwave to reheat your stuffing only when you're in a rush, as it won't achieve a crispy texture. To microwave the stuffing, place your desired portion in a microwave-safe dish. If it seems a bit dry, add some broth to restore moisture. Microwave at medium power, stirring occasionally to ensure the stuffing heats evenly.
Prepare Stuffing in Advance
You can prepare the stuffing a day ahead, but be sure not to bake it until you're ready to serve. Get all the prep work done—cube and dry the bread, cook the vegetables and aromatics, and mix everything with the eggs and broth. Rather than baking immediately, cover the stuffing tightly with foil and refrigerate it. On Thanksgiving morning, let it come to room temperature, then bake as directed.
Drying Bread For Stuffing in Advance
It's essential to dry out the bread to avoid soggy stuffing, especially if you plan to refrigerate it overnight. You have two options: After cutting the bread into 1/2-inch cubes, spread it in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet and leave it uncovered at room temperature overnight. Alternatively, toast the bread in a 350 °F oven for about 25 to 30 minutes, until it just begins to brown. Let it cool before continuing with the recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How can you restore moisture to dry leftover stuffing?
If your leftover stuffing has become dry, you can bring it back to life by adding a little chicken, turkey, or vegetable broth. Stock works well too, as does a nice dollop of butter. After adding the liquid, make sure to stir the stuffing thoroughly before reheating it for the best result.
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What’s the best way to keep stuffing warm without it drying out?
To keep your stuffing warm and moist without it drying out, add some warm chicken or turkey stock, then give it a good stir. This will help retain both the warmth and moisture of your stuffing.
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Can you microwave cold stuffing?
Yes, microwaving cold stuffing is an option if you're looking for a quick reheat. Just keep in mind that it won’t create that crispy top you might love. For crispy stuffing, it's better to reheat it in the oven, air fryer, or on the stovetop instead.
