Savory Turkey & Stuffing Cups with Gravy in Muffin Tins

Introduction

Imagine pulling a muffin tin out of the oven, golden-brown cups sizzling just slightly, their aroma filling the kitchen with the unmistakable comfort of Thanksgiving dinner. That’s exactly what you’ll experience when you make these Savory Muffin Tin Turkey & Stuffing Cups with Gravy! The first time I made these, my family couldn’t believe how something so small could pack in so much flavor. It was an instant hit, and I knew I had found a new holiday favorite.

This recipe is like a mini Thanksgiving feast in every bite. Picture tender turkey pieces tucked into a savory stuffing, all topped with a drizzle of luscious homemade gravy. It’s the kind of dish that gets you excited for seconds before you’ve even finished the first serving. And let me tell you, these cups are dangerously easy to make—you’ll want to whip them up even when it’s not the holidays!

Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering, looking for a creative way to use leftover turkey and stuffing, or simply craving a comforting meal, these muffin tin turkey cups are your answer. Honestly, just writing about them makes me want to head to the kitchen and whip up another batch! Stick with me, and I’ll show you how to create these crowd-pleasers step-by-step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, these turkey and stuffing cups are perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely already have everything you need in your pantry or fridge.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a potluck, or a cozy dinner, these cups are a versatile hit.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids love the bite-sized portions, and adults adore the nostalgic flavors.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of moist turkey, seasoned stuffing, and rich gravy is the epitome of comfort food.

What makes these turkey cups truly special is their clever presentation. By baking them in a muffin tin, you get perfectly portioned bites that look as good as they taste. Plus, they’re so easy to serve—no slicing or dicing required! The texture is spot on: crispy edges of stuffing paired with juicy, flavorful turkey and a silky gravy that ties it all together. It’s like a warm hug in food form. Trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• Cooked turkey: 2 cups, shredded or diced (leftovers work perfectly).
• Stuffing: 4 cups, prepared (homemade or store-bought).
• Eggs: 2 large, beaten (helps bind the stuffing mixture).
• Chicken or turkey broth: 1/4 cup (keeps the stuffing moist).
• Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted (adds richness).
• Gravy: 1 cup, store-bought or homemade (for drizzling over the cups).
• Fresh herbs: 1 tablespoon each of chopped parsley and thyme (optional, but they add a fresh pop of flavor).
• Salt and pepper: To taste.

If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t worry—this recipe is flexible. For example, if you’re out of turkey, cooked chicken works just as well. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can replace traditional stuffing for dietary needs, and dairy-free butter is a great alternative for those avoiding dairy.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy equipment to make these muffin tin turkey cups. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Muffin tin: A standard 12-cup muffin tin is perfect for this recipe.
• Mixing bowls: For combining the stuffing mixture.
• Whisk: To beat the eggs and mix the broth.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision matters for the best results!
• Cooking spray: To prevent sticking.
• Spoon or scoop: Makes portioning the stuffing mixture easier.

If you don’t have a muffin tin, you could use small ramekins as an alternative. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly. And if you’re using a non-stick pan, a gentle scrubber is a great tool for cleaning up afterward without damaging the coating.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or butter.
2. Prepare the stuffing mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared stuffing, shredded turkey, beaten eggs, chicken broth, melted butter, and fresh herbs. Mix until well combined but not overly wet.
3. Fill the muffin tin: Use a spoon or scoop to evenly divide the mixture among the muffin cups. Press gently to compact the mixture but avoid over-packing.
4. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and slightly crisp.
5. Check doneness: Remove the muffin tin and let the cups cool for 5 minutes. They should hold their shape when removed.
6. Serve with gravy: Warm your gravy on the stovetop or microwave. Drizzle generously over the turkey and stuffing cups, or serve on the side for dipping.

Pro tip: If the cups seem a bit dry, add a touch more broth to the mixture before baking. And don’t worry if the stuffing cups don’t look perfect—those crispy edges are part of the charm!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Use leftover turkey: This recipe is ideal for repurposing leftover holiday turkey. Dark meat tends to be juicier, but white meat works too.
• Don’t skip the eggs: They’re crucial for binding the stuffing mixture and helping the cups hold their shape.
• Grease the muffin tin well: This prevents the cups from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Season to taste: If your turkey and stuffing are already well-seasoned, you might not need to add much salt or pepper.
• Test for crispiness: The edges of the stuffing should be golden and slightly crispy for the best texture. If needed, bake for an extra minute or two.

From my experience, these cups are very forgiving, but keep an eye on them toward the end of baking to avoid over-drying. And if you’re looking for a shortcut, store-bought stuffing mix works great—just add a little extra seasoning to make it shine.

Variations & Adaptations

• Vegetarian option: Swap the turkey with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Seasonal twist: Add dried cranberries or chopped roasted chestnuts to the stuffing mixture for a festive holiday flavor.
• Cheesy delight: Mix in some shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese for a gooey, cheesy surprise.
• Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free stuffing mix and ensure your broth is free of wheat-based additives.

Personally, I love adding a sprinkle of crispy fried onions on top before serving—it adds an amazing crunch and extra savoriness!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These savory muffin tin turkey & stuffing cups are best served warm, with a generous drizzle of gravy over the top. Pair them with a side of steamed green beans or roasted carrots for a complete meal. If you’re serving them at a holiday gathering, they look gorgeous arranged on a rustic wooden platter with sprigs of fresh herbs for decoration.

Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave them for 1-2 minutes. For longer storage, freeze the cups in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional profile per serving (assuming 2 cups):

• Calories: Approximately 210
• Protein: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 10g

Thanks to the turkey, these cups are a great source of lean protein, keeping you full and satisfied. The stuffing adds a comforting dose of carbs, while the fresh herbs provide antioxidants and flavor. If you opt for homemade gravy, you can control the sodium and fat content to make it a healthier choice. Just be mindful of potential allergens like gluten or dairy, and adjust as needed for dietary preferences.

Conclusion

There’s something magical about these Savory Muffin Tin Turkey & Stuffing Cups with Gravy—they’re a little bit nostalgic, a little bit creative, and 100% delicious. Whether you make them with holiday leftovers or whip them up as a standalone treat, you’ll love how simple and satisfying they are.

I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! Feel free to customize it to your preferences and share your creations in the comments below. Did you add a twist? Try a new variation? Let me know—I’d love to hear all about it. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and joy!

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Cooked chicken works just as well as turkey in this recipe.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing mixture and assemble the cups in the muffin tin a day ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready.

Can I freeze these cups?

Yes, they freeze beautifully! Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

What’s the best way to make homemade gravy?

Use turkey drippings if you have them, combine with flour and broth, and whisk until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs for extra flavor.

What can I serve with these cups?

They pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. For drinks, try a crisp white wine or refreshing iced tea!

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