Holiday Stuffing with Herbs
This Holiday Stuffing with Herbs is a flavorful, easy-to-make side featuring whole grain bread, fresh herbs, and savory turkey bacon for the perfect festive dish.
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf whole grain bread cubed (about 10-12 cups)
- 1 cup turkey bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 stalks celery chopped
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs beaten
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Cubes
- Cube whole grain bread into roughly 1-inch pieces. Use slightly stale bread or toast fresh bread cubes in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes until lightly crisp for best texture.
Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the turkey bacon until crisp. Remove and crumble into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- Using the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add chopped onion and celery and sauté until translucent and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Mix the Herbs and Seasonings
- In a large mixing bowl, combine fresh sage, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Combine All Ingredients
- Add sautéed onion and celery, crumbled turkey bacon, and bread cubes to the herb mixture. Gradually pour in vegetable broth, stirring gently to absorb. Pour beaten eggs over and toss well to bind.
Step 6: Bake the Stuffing
- Transfer mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes to develop a golden, crispy top.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from oven and let cool a few minutes. Serve warm as a delicious holiday side dish.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking dish
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Whisk or fork
Notes
- Use slightly stale or toasted bread to prevent soggy stuffing.
- Adjust salt and herbs after mixing to ensure perfect seasoning.
- For a vegetarian version, omit turkey bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or toasted walnuts.
- Prepare bread cubes and sautéed vegetables a day ahead to save time on the day of serving.
- Leftover stuffing keeps well refrigerated for 3-4 days and reheats nicely in the oven.
