Get ready to transform your ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Apple Herb Stuffing! Imagine a side dish so irresistible that it becomes the star of your dinner table, combining the sweet crunch of apples, the aromatic warmth of herbs, and the comforting texture of perfectly toasted bread. Whether you're preparing a holiday feast or simply craving a delicious home-cooked meal, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and leave your guests begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 apple, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- Cut the bread into small, roughly 1-inch cubes. Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and let them dry out at room temperature for about 1 hour, or toast them lightly in the oven for 10 minutes to enhance their texture.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and celery, sautéing until they become soft and translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add diced apples to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften but remain slightly firm.
- Sprinkle dried sage, salt, and pepper over the vegetable mixture, stirring to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried bread cubes with the sautéed vegetable and apple mixture.
- Gradually pour chicken broth over the bread mixture, stirring gently to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid without becoming too soggy.
- Transfer the stuffing mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly and covering loosely with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to create a crispy golden top.
- Remove from the oven and let the stuffing rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the stuffing to set.
Tips
- Bread Preparation is Key: Use day-old bread or toast the cubes lightly to ensure the perfect texture. Slightly dry bread absorbs flavors better and prevents a mushy consistency.
- Don't Rush the Sautéing: Take your time when cooking onions, celery, and apples. Allowing them to caramelize slightly will develop deeper, richer flavors.
- Moisture Management: Add chicken broth gradually and gently mix to prevent the stuffing from becoming too wet. The goal is a moist but not soggy texture.
- Customize Your Herbs: While sage is traditional, feel free to experiment with thyme, rosemary, or a blend of fresh herbs to make the recipe your own.
- Golden Top Trick: Removing the foil in the last 15 minutes of baking ensures a crispy, golden-brown surface that adds both texture and visual appeal.
- Resting is Crucial: Let the stuffing rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to meld and the stuffing to set properly.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 5mg
