Are you ready to elevate your Thanksgiving or holiday dinner with a stuffing recipe that's both incredibly flavorful and surprisingly easy to make? This recipe delivers all the comforting warmth and deliciousness of traditional stuffing, but without the celery! Perfect for those who aren't fans of the crunchy green stalks, this adaptation is a delicious alternative that everyone will love. It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, ideal for a quick dinner idea or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 6-8 people.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 cups cubed bread (day-old bread works best!)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a wonderful base of flavor for your stuffing.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread with the sautéed onion mixture. Gently toss to coat the bread evenly with the aromatic vegetables and herbs.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Mix
Pour the chicken (or vegetable) broth over the bread mixture. Stir gently to ensure the bread is well moistened. Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid. This step is crucial for achieving a moist and flavorful stuffing.
Step 4: Incorporate the Extras
Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and your choice of nuts (pecans or walnuts). If using, add the melted butter and gently fold it into the stuffing.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through. Check for doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Cooking Tips for the Best Stuffing:
- Bread Choice: Day-old bread is ideal because it absorbs the broth better than fresh bread. You can also use a variety of breads like sourdough, Italian, or even cornbread for added flavor and texture.
- Broth Adjustment: If your bread seems too dry after 5-10 minutes, add a little more broth. Conversely, if it seems too wet, let it sit for a little longer before baking.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices to personalize your stuffing. A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can add depth of flavor.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the stuffing mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on using chicken broth and without nuts. Nutritional values will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This delicious and easy stuffing recipe is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's a healthy meal option that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering, transforming a classic dish into a personalized culinary delight. Enjoy!