Savory Apple Onion Celery Stuffing Recipe for Thanksgiving

As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of home-cooked stuffing wafting through the kitchen. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering, a festive celebration, or just a cozy family dinner, this Apple, Onion & Celery Stuffing becomes the star of your table, offering warmth and love in every bite. Inspired by traditional Thanksgiving recipes, this stuffing melds sweet and savory flavors to create a dish that is both satisfying and memorable.

This recipe is special not just for its delightful taste but also for its simplicity. With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation, even novice cooks can whip up this stuffing in no time. Its unique blend of apples, onions, and celery not only adds interesting textures but also creates a flavor profile that’s hard to resist. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making—and eating—this delicious stuffing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apple, Onion & Celery Stuffing is not just any side dish; it’s a flavor-packed journey that combines tender bits of apple with the rich, savory essence of sautéed onions and celery. Each component plays a crucial role, lending its unique taste and texture to the mix. You might fall in love with it because:

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps, you’ll have a dish that seems like it took all day to make.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of apples complements the savory notes of onions and celery, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
• Versatile: This stuffing can easily be modified for dietary restrictions or personal preferences, making it suitable for everyone at the table.

What Does The Recipe Taste Like

This stuffing is a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors that create an inviting taste experience. The apples provide a pleasant sweetness, which brilliantly contrasts with the earthiness of the sautéed onions and celery. The touch of herbs and spices adds layers of complexity without overwhelming any of the core flavors. Imagine sinking your fork into a warm, aromatic dish that makes your taste buds dance—all the while transporting you back to happy gatherings with family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for crafting the best Apple, Onion & Celery Stuffing. Below, we’ve detailed each ingredient along with its measurement and contribution to the dish.

Main Ingredients

• 4 cups of bread cubed (preferably day-old): Provides the base and texture for the stuffing, allowing it to absorb all flavors and juices.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Offers a savory depth and rich flavor that complements the sweetness of apples.
• 2 cups of celery, diced: Adds a crunchy texture and mild flavor that balances the dish.
• 2 apples, peeled and diced (recommended: Granny Smith): Brings sweetness and a slight tartness to enhance the overall flavor.
• 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped: Infuses the dish with freshness and brightness.
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme: Adds an earthy aroma that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the apples.
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt: Enhances all other ingredients for a well-seasoned stuffing.
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper: Provides a hint of warmth and spice.
• 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth: Moistens the stuffing and helps bind everything together.
• 1/4 cup of unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables for a caramelized finish.

Optional Additions

If you’re looking to put your own twist on this stuffing or accommodate different dietary preferences, consider these optional additions:

• 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans: For a nutty flavor and crunch.
• 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or raisins: To add a sweet and chewy element.
• A pinch of cayenne pepper: For those who enjoy a little heat in their stuffing.

Special Garnishes

Presentation matters, so don’t forget to add garnishes that elevate your dish:

• Fresh sage leaves: A classic pairing that adds both a lovely aroma and visual appeal.
• Additional parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley on top provides a pop of color.
• Sliced apples: Arrange a few slices on top for an inviting, rustic look.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you’re gathered with your ingredients, let’s get started with the preparation. Follow these easy steps to make your Apple, Onion & Celery Stuffing:

1. Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cube the Bread: Use day-old bread, cube it into bite-sized pieces, and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and celery. Sauté until they are translucent and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Mix in Apples and Herbs: Stir in the diced apples, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the apples begin to soften.
5. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed mixture with the cubed bread, chopped parsley, and any optional additions you choose.
6. Add Broth: Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, mixing until the bread is evenly moistened. Adjust the seasoning as necessary.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the stuffing mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and crisp.

Recipe Variations

This stuffing recipe is incredibly versatile. If you’re looking for variations to keep things exciting, here are a few ideas:

• Herbed Stuffing: Incorporate different herbs like rosemary or sage for a more fragrant stuffing.
• Spicy Stuffing: Add chopped jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce for a kick.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the bread for gluten-free bread and ensure your broth is also gluten-free.

Serving and Storage Tips

Once your stuffing is done, it can be served immediately. For a beautiful presentation, serve it directly from the baking dish, garnished with parsley or sage. Here are some tips for storage:

• Leftovers: Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the stuffing for up to 2 months. Before serving, ensure it’s thawed completely and reheat in the oven.

Helpful Tips

To make the most out of your Apple, Onion & Celery Stuffing, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread absorbs moisture better, resulting in a more cohesive stuffing.
• Don’t Skip the Broth: Ensure your stuffing is moistened appropriately for the right texture.
• Add Flavor Gradually: Taste as you go, adjusting seasoning as necessary for a perfect balance.

Special Equipment

To prepare your Apple, Onion & Celery Stuffing, you’ll need a few essential pieces of equipment:

• Large Skillet: For sautéing the onions and celery.
• Mixing Bowl: To combine all ingredients before baking.
• Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch dish is perfect for this stuffing recipe.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping your vegetables and fruits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I prepare this stuffing in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Simply store it in the fridge, and then bake it right before serving.

Can I use different types of bread?

Absolutely! You can use sourdough, whole wheat, or any bread of your choice for a lovely variation in flavor and texture.

Is this stuffing gluten-free?

This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free bread and ensuring that the broth is also gluten-free.

How can I make this stuffing more savory?

If you prefer a more savory stuffing, consider adding cooked sausage or more herbs to deepen the flavor.

Conclusion

The Apple, Onion & Celery Stuffing is not merely a recipe; it’s an experience that encapsulates family traditions and memories. With its perfect blend of flavors, simple preparation, and stunning presentation, it promises to be a hit at your next gathering. We invite you to give it a try and recreate your own fond moments in the kitchen. Share your adaptations in the comments below, and let’s continue the tradition of sharing good food and great company!

Savory Apple Onion Celery Stuffing Recipe for Thanksgiving

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• Author: souzanfood
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

Savor this Thanksgiving with our delightful Apple Onion Celery Stuffing recipe Perfect blend of flavors for a memorable holiday feast Ready to impress

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Ingredients

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4 cups of bread cubed (preferably day-old)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cups of celery, diced

2 apples, peeled and diced (recommended: Granny Smith)

1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon of dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon of salt

1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth

1/4 cup of unsalted butter

Optional: 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans

Optional: 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or raisins

Optional: A pinch of cayenne pepper

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cube the day-old bread and set aside.

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and celery, and sauté until translucent and tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in the diced apples, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the apples begin to soften.

In a large bowl, combine the sautéed mixture with the cubed bread, chopped parsley, and any optional additions.

Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, mixing until the bread is evenly moistened. Adjust the seasoning as necessary.

Pour the stuffing mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and crisp.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 250 calories
• Sugar: 6 grams
• Fat: 10 grams
• Saturated Fat: 10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 35 grams
• Fiber: 3 grams
• Protein: 5 grams