Apple Pecan Stuffing
A warm, savory stuffing with apples and pecans, perfect for holiday dinners and turkey accompaniments, offering a delightful blend of sweet and nutty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 4-quart saucepan, over medium heat, melt margarine or butter, then cook chopped celery and onion until tender, stirring often.
- Add condensed chicken broth to the saucepan and heat to boiling.
- Remove the saucepan from heat.
- Add the herb seasoned cubed stuffing, chopped apples, and chopped pecans; toss to mix well.
- Use to stuff a 12 to 14 pound turkey.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the margarine or butter with olive oil. If you prefer a sweeter touch, use honeycrisp or gala apples. To make it gluten-free, swap the herb seasoned cubed stuffing with a gluten-free alternative. This stuffing can also be adapted with dried cranberries for added sweetness or spices like sage for warmth, making it a versatile side for many American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Apple Pecan Stuffing pairs beautifully with a perfectly roasted turkey or chicken, making it a delightful side for holiday meals. Consider serving it alongside tangy cranberry sauce or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It also complements savory dishes like Golden Turkey Bake, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple Pecan Stuffing contains roughly 1650 calories, with 11g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 172g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1035mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Simply complete steps 1-4, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to use, stuff the turkey just before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and saves time on the big day.
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
For this stuffing, honeycrisp, granny smith, or gala apples are excellent choices. They offer a nice balance of sweetness and tartness, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. Avoid overly soft varieties as they may turn mushy during cooking.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the condensed chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version. This keeps the stuffing flavorful while accommodating dietary preferences. You can also enhance the taste with additional herbs and spices.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).