5 Easy Meals Using Boxed Stuffing (Simple, Budget-Friendly Dinners)

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Welcome back to my kitchen! If you’ve got a box of stuffing mix in your pantry, you’re already halfway to dinner. Today I’m sharing 5 easy, budget-friendly meals that turn boxed stuffing into full-on, comforting dinners—no holiday required.

These recipes are quick (most take under an hour), made with simple pantry staples, and totally customizable. Whether you’re using up leftovers or feeding a busy family, stuffing mix is the secret shortcut to cozy, crowd-pleasing meals.

Let’s take stuffing way beyond Thanksgiving. Let’s get cooking.

Want to skip the box? The BEST Homemade Stuffing ↓
1. Best Minimal Ingredient Meatloaf
2. Ham Stuffing Egg Casserole
3. Zucchini Stuffing Chicken Casserole
4. Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
5. Crunchy No-Peek Cheesy Chicken
What to serve with simple dinner recipes:
Make dessert to go with dinner:
Why are these recipes so great?
Quick links for making dinner easy:

Want to skip the box? The BEST Homemade Stuffing ↓

Easy Thanksgiving Stuffing

1. Best Minimal Ingredient Meatloaf

Simple Meatloaf

Stuffing mix takes the place of breadcrumbs in this tender, juicy meatloaf—and the results are unbeatable. You only need a few simple ingredients to create a flavorful, no-fail dinner that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies.

Why it works:
The stuffing adds built-in herbs and seasoning, making this meatloaf ultra flavorful with zero extra effort. Great for meal prep and even better the next day as a sandwich.

2. Ham Stuffing Egg Casserole

Ham Stuffing Egg Casserole (5-Minute Prep Breakfast Bake)

This one-bowl breakfast bake is a hit any time of day. Eggs, ham, cheese, and stuffing mix come together in a creamy, cheesy casserole that takes just five minutes to prep. It’s an excellent way to use up leftover ham or make ahead for busy mornings.

Why it works:
The stuffing mix soaks up the milk and eggs, creating a savory, bread pudding-style texture. Delicious, hearty, and great with a side of fruit or hot sauce.

3. Zucchini Stuffing Chicken Casserole

Chicken Stuffing Casserole with Zucchini

This casserole is a favorite for good reason. It combines juicy shredded chicken, tender zucchini, creamy soup, and a crunchy stuffing topping. It’s cozy, creamy, and comes together in one baking dish.

Why it works:
The stuffing on top turns golden and crisp while the inside stays creamy and full of flavor. A great way to sneak in veggies, too.

4. Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

If you love chicken cordon bleu but don’t love the work, this casserole is your shortcut. Layers of chicken, ham, Swiss cheese, and creamy sauce are topped with seasoned stuffing for a crispy finish.

Why it works:
All the flavor of classic cordon bleu—none of the rolling or breading. The stuffing adds crunch and that nostalgic flavor everyone loves.

5. Crunchy No-Peek Cheesy Chicken

Crunchy No-Peek Cheesy Chicken (Easy Oven Bake)

This creamy, cheesy chicken bake is a hands-off dinner dream. Just layer ingredients in a baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and bake—no peeking required. The cheesy layer and buttery stuffing topping make this a comfort food must.

Why it works:
The stuffing absorbs the broth and butter, forming a crispy top while the soup and cheese create a creamy base around the chicken. Pure comfort.

What to serve with simple dinner recipes:

The point of these recipes is to keep dinner simple and delicious, so there is no need to go crazy with sides for these meals. You will get plenty of flavor with one or more sides. Here are a few of my favorites to serve with these meals:

Make dessert to go with dinner:

Why are these recipes so great?

These simple dinner recipes are great family meals that are generally kid-friendly, yet give you plenty of protein and some tasty carbs. They are well-rounded entrees.

Plus, you can make these dinner recipes in just a few steps with minimal effort. Let me know which ones you try and love!