Tired of the same old Thanksgiving stuffing? This year, ditch the predictable and embrace a burst of tropical flavor with our easy pineapple stuffing recipe! This delicious side dish is surprisingly simple to make, bursting with sweet and savory notes that will complement your holiday feast perfectly. It’s the perfect blend of homemade cooking and quick dinner ideas, ideal for both seasoned cooks and those new to the kitchen. This recipe offers a healthy twist on a classic, making it a delicious and guilt-free addition to your table. Get ready to impress your guests with this unforgettable side dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced (about ½ a pineapple)
- 1 teaspoon ground sage
- ½ teaspoon ground thyme
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 6 cups cubed bread (day-old bread works best)
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your stuffing.
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Add the pineapple and spices: Stir in the diced pineapple, sage, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the pineapple to slightly soften and the spices to bloom. The fragrant spices will infuse the stuffing with incredible aroma.
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Combine with bread: Add the cubed bread to the skillet and toss gently to coat it evenly with the pineapple mixture and spices.
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Add the broth: Gradually pour in the chicken (or vegetable) broth, stirring until the bread is evenly moistened. Avoid over-soaking the bread; you want it moist but not soggy.
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Bake: Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and lightly browned. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up.
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Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm alongside your favorite Thanksgiving dishes. This bright, flavorful stuffing will be a welcome addition to your meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pineapple Stuffing:
- Day-old bread is best: Stale bread absorbs the liquid better, preventing a soggy stuffing.
- Don't over-soak the bread: Add the broth gradually and stir gently to ensure even moisture.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less of any spice according to your preference.
- Add some crunch: Toasted pecans or walnuts would add a delightful textural contrast.
Variations:
- Cranberry Pineapple Stuffing: Add ½ cup of dried cranberries to the mixture for an extra burst of tartness.
- Spicy Pineapple Stuffing: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Ham Pineapple Stuffing: Dice ½ cup of cooked ham and add it to the sautéed vegetables for a savory twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Fat: 5-8g
This easy pineapple stuffing recipe is sure to become a family favorite! It’s a simple yet elegant side dish that will elevate your next meal. Enjoy!