Are you looking for a delicious and easy side dish to elevate your next dinner? Look no further! This recipe for apple cranberry stuffing is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a homemade touch. It's bursting with festive flavors and textures, offering a delightful balance of sweet and savory. This recipe is surprisingly quick and simple, making it ideal for even the busiest cooks. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- ½ teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or ¼ teaspoon dried)
- 1 pound bread, cubed (day-old is best!)
- 1 cup apple cider
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 1 large apple (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and diced
- ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the sage and thyme and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of your stuffing.
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Toast the Bread: Add the cubed bread to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly toasted, about 3-5 minutes. This prevents the stuffing from becoming soggy.
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Add the Liquids: Pour in the apple cider and stir to combine. Cook for a few minutes, allowing the cider to be absorbed by the bread.
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Incorporate the Fruit and Broth: Stir in the dried cranberries and diced apple. Pour in the chicken (or vegetable) broth and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Bake (Optional): For a warm and comforting stuffing, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and lightly browned on top. If you prefer a quicker option, skip this step and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Apple Cranberry Stuffing:
- Bread Choice: Day-old bread works best as it absorbs the liquid better without becoming mushy. You can use any kind of bread, but a crusty loaf or sourdough adds a nice texture.
- Apple Variety: Choose a tart apple like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and acidity. Honeycrisp also works wonderfully.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or marjoram.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon can add a warm, festive touch.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the stuffing up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and bake it just before serving.
Variations:
- Sausage Stuffing: Brown ½ pound of sausage (Italian or breakfast sausage) before adding the onions and celery for a heartier stuffing.
- Nutty Stuffing: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Citrus Twist: Add the zest of one orange or lemon for a bright, refreshing note.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate per serving is approximately:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Fat: 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
This apple cranberry stuffing recipe is a versatile and delicious side dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the wonderful flavors and textures, and don't hesitate to adapt it to your own preferences! It's a guaranteed way to add a touch of homemade warmth and deliciousness to your next meal.