Turkey Stuffing Recipe

31

This isn’t just any Turkey Stuffing recipe—it’s a tapestry of flavors woven with memories, laughter, and the kind of culinary alchemy that turns simple meals into feasts for the soul.

Every year, as Thanksgiving approaches, I find myself eagerly anticipating the ritual of creating our turkey stuffing. It’s a recipe steeped in history, handed down through generations, each adding its twist while preserving the essence that makes it uniquely ours. From the careful selection of herbs that seem to capture the very essence of autumn to the choice of bread that forms the heart of the stuffing, every ingredient is a chapter in a story that spans decades.

How to make Turkey Stuffing

Turkey stuffing, also known as dressing in some regions, is a mixture of ingredients typically used to fill the cavity of a turkey before roasting. The stuffing helps flavor the meat and adds moisture, and it’s traditionally served alongside the turkey as part of the meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf (about 14-16 ounces) of day-old bread (sourdough, French bread, or even a mix for added depth), cubed & dried
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for baking
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1-2 cups chicken, vegetable, or turkey broth
• 1 large egg (optional for binding)
• Extras (optional): 1/2 cup dried cranberries or apples, 1/2 cup chopped pecans, 1/2 pound cooked and crumbled sausage, or 1/2 cup cooked and chopped chestnuts

Instructions:

1. Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you’re baking the stuffing outside the turkey. Grease a large baking dish with butter.
2. Bread Base: Ensure your bread cubes are dry. If not, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until dry but not browned.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions, celery, and a pinch of salt. Cook until they’re soft and translucent, about 7-10 minutes. Add garlic, sage, and thyme, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Combine: Transfer the vegetable mixture to a large bowl with the bread cubes. Add parsley, salt, pepper, and any extra ingredients you’re using. Toss to combine.
5. Moisten: Beat the egg (if using) with 1 cup of broth and pour over the bread mixture, tossing gently to mix. Gradually add more broth until the stuffing is moist but not soggy. Each bread type absorbs liquid differently, so add slowly and judge accordingly.
6. Bake: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Dot with additional butter. Cover with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and crisp.

Tips for Perfect Turkey Stuffing:

• Dry Bread is Key: Start with dry bread to prevent the stuffing from becoming mushy. This also helps it better absorb the flavors.
• Flavor Balance: Adjust the herbs and seasonings based on your preference and the other dishes you serve.
• Broth Ratio: Be careful with the broth; add gradually until you reach the desired moistness.
• Safety First: If you choose to stuff your turkey, ensure both the turkey and the stuffing reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent foodborne illness.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffing a day ahead (up to the point before baking) and keep it refrigerated. This can actually enhance the flavors as they meld together overnight.
• Personal Touch: Don’t hesitate to adjust the recipe with your favorite extras or tweaks. The best stuffing reflects the tastes and traditions of those who gather to enjoy it.

What to serve with

Turkey stuffing, with its rich and savory depth, is a fundamental pillar of a holiday feast. To complement it, a well-rounded and harmonious menu should encompass a variety of textures, flavors, and nutrients.

1. The Turkey: The star of the show, of course. A beautifully roasted turkey, whether brined for juiciness, herbed for fragrance, or even smoked for a deep flavor profile, pairs impeccarily with the stuffing. The turkey’s succulent meat and the stuffing’s savory breadiness are a match made in culinary heaven.

2. Gravy: Rich, silky gravy made from the turkey drippings ties all the elements on the plate together. It moistens and enhances not just the turkey and stuffing but also other sides. For added depth, consider adding a splash of wine or herbs to the gravy as it simmers.

3. Cranberry Sauce: The vibrant tartness of cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stuffing and turkey. Homemade cranberry sauce, with hints of orange zest and cinnamon or a simple, traditional sauce, adds a burst of color and flavor to the plate.

4. Green Bean Casserole: A classic side, green bean casserole, with its creamy mushroom sauce and crispy fried onion topping, offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors. This dish wonderfully complements the soft and savory profile of the stuffing.

5. Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and parsnips, drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with salt and thyme, add a healthy and colourful component to the meal. Their caramelized edges and tender insides offer a sweet and earthy counterpoint to the stuffing.

6. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a must-have in any holiday meal. They serve as the perfect vessel for gravy and pair splendidly with every element on the plate, stuffing included. Consider adding roasted garlic or cheese to your potatoes for an extra flavor boost.

7. Sweet Potato Casserole: This dish brings a slightly sweet and nutty element to the table. Topped with a crunchy pecan streusel or a layer of toasted marshmallows, sweet potato casserole balances the savory notes of the stuffing and turkey.

8. Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm dinner rolls are ideal for sopping up gravy and creating mini turkey and stuffing sandwiches right on your plate. Offering a variety of bread, including some whole grain options, can please every palate.

9. Salad: A light, refreshing salad can help balance the heavier dishes. Consider a salad with mixed greens, sliced pears or apples, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette. The crispness and acidity will cut through the richness and cleanse the palate.

10. Dessert: Finish the meal on a high note with classic desserts like pumpkin pie, apple pie, or pecan pie. Each provides a sweet and hearty conclusion to a festive meal, especially when served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients Substitutes

Turkey stuffing is a hallmark of holiday meals, but dietary restrictions, allergies, or simply the absence of certain ingredients in your pantry can necessitate creative substitutions. Luckily, turkey stuffing is forgiving and versatile, allowing for various ingredient swaps without compromising its comforting, savory qualities.

Bread

Substitutes: Gluten-free bread, cornbread, rice (wild, white, or brown for different textures), quinoa, or matzo crumbs for those avoiding gluten or seeking variety. The key is to maintain the bread-to-liquid ratio to achieve the desired consistency.

Preparation: Cube and dry out your substitute just as you would with traditional bread to ensure it absorbs the flavors without becoming too soggy.

Broth

Substitutes: Vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or water with bouillon cubes (chicken, beef, or vegetable) if you’re out of broth. For a richer flavor, you can use the same amount of white wine or beer as part of the liquid component.

Preparation: Use the regular broth as you would the stuffing. The wine or beer will introduce a new flavor profile to your stuffing.

Butter

Substitutes: For vegans or those with dairy allergies, try olive oil, coconut oil, or a quality vegan butter substitute. Applesauce or pumpkin puree can work in more moist stuffings, though they’ll introduce a slight sweetness.

Preparation: Measure these alternatives in a one-to-one ratio with butter. Be mindful of how the substitute might affect the flavor and adjust seasonings accordingly.

Eggs (as a binder)

Substitutes: For those avoiding eggs, options include “flax eggs” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, set until gooey, equals one egg), chia seeds prepared the same way, or even a few tablespoons of vegetable broth, as long as the stuffing isn’t overly moist.

Preparation: Mix your substitute with a bit of liquid from your recipe and allow it to sit until it reaches a gel-like consistency before adding it to your stuffing mixture.

Onions and Garlic

Substitutes: For those with sensitivities to onions or garlic, try using fennel, celery, or bell peppers for crunch and aromatics. When used sparingly, asafoetida powder can mimic the savory depth of onions and garlic.

Preparation: Finely dice your vegetables and sauté them just as you would onions and garlic, being mindful of their cooking times.

Celery

Substitutes: If you’re out of celery or dislike it, consider alternatives like bok choy stems, leeks, or even fennel for that crunchy texture.

Preparation: Chop your substitute to mimic the size and shape of celery and sauté if desired, though note that some alternatives (like fennel) may soften more quickly.

Herbs and Spices

Substitutes: If you’re missing specific herbs like sage or thyme, poultry seasoning is a great backup. It contains a blend of these and others, like marjoram and rosemary. Dried herbs can be used in place of fresh, with the general rule being 1 teaspoon dried for 1 tablespoon fresh.

Preparation: Add these towards the end of sautéing your vegetables or according to your recipe’s instructions.

Dried Fruit and Nuts

Substitutes: If you are allergic to nuts, consider seeds (like pumpkin or sunflower) or, for a different twist, chopped veggies that offer a similar crunch, like carrots or apples. Dried fruit substitutions depend on the flavor you want; cranberries for raisins, or vice versa, can work smoothly.

Preparation: Add these at the same stage as the original ingredients, usually mixed in just before the stuffing goes into the bird or baking dish.

Meat

Substitutes: Vegetarians can look to “meaty” vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant or use plant-based sausage. Meat lovers without sausage on hand can use chopped bacon or ham, adjusting the seasoning to account for their saltier, smokier flavor.

Preparation: Prepare and cook your substitutes in advance, ensuring they’re the right size and consistency when mixed with the other stuffing ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Making this turkey stuffing is more than just following a recipe—it’s about creating a centrepiece of warmth and celebration. As holidays are about making memories, let your stuffing reflect the love and care that defines your gatherings.

More Stuffing Recipes:

• Trader Joe’s Gluten Free Stuffing Recipe
• Best Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe
• Pepperidge Farm Turkey Stuffing Recipe
• Pepperidge Farm Sausage Stuffing Recipe
• Sausage Stuffing for Thanksgiving