Description
This delicious stuffing recipe combines classic savory herbs with smoked turkey bacon and plant-based ingredients to create a comforting and flavorful side dish perfect for holiday gatherings. Featuring a perfect texture balance of tender bread and crispy topping, it’s easy to prepare, versatile for various dietary needs, and can be made ahead to reduce mealtime stress.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups stale bread cubes
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons plant-based butter
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 2 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Variations
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup dried cranberries or apricots
- ½ cup crumbled plant-based sausage
- ½ cup diced mushrooms or roasted butternut squash
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread and Vegetables: Cut stale bread into evenly sized cubes. Spread cubes on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until lightly golden and crisp, about 10-15 minutes. While toasting, finely dice the onion and celery and chop fresh sage and thyme for fragrant flavor.
- Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon and Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt plant-based butter over medium heat. Add smoked turkey bacon and cook until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan. Add onions and celery, sautéing until soft and translucent without browning. Stir in fresh sage and thyme and cook briefly to release their aroma.
- Combine All Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, and chopped turkey bacon. Gradually drizzle vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) and vegetable broth while gently mixing to moisten evenly. Sprinkle salt, freshly ground black pepper, and natural gelling agent to bind the mixture.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased casserole dish. Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy, creating a delightful contrast with the soft interior.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for better absorption and texture.
- Fresh herbs provide more vibrant flavor than dried.
- Add vegetable broth gradually to avoid sogginess.
- Sauté vegetables until tender but not browned to maintain brightness.
- Mix ingredients gently to preserve bread cube texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: stuffing, holiday side dish, plant-based, savory herbs, smoked turkey bacon, easy recipe, make-ahead
