Applesauce Pecan Dressing
A savory and nutty applesauce pecan dressing featuring cornbread, herbs, and chicken broth, perfect for stuffing or as a flavorful side for poultry dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare 3 skillets of Aunt Jemima buttermilk cornbread according to package directions, including 1 tablespoon sugar in each batch.
- Crumble the cooked cornbread into a large bowl.
- Add the applesauce, chicken bouillon, chopped onion, chopped celery, poultry seasoning, sage, and chopped pecans to the bowl.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F until golden brown, about 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter dressing, consider increasing the sugar slightly or using brown sugar for a richer flavor. If you don't have Aunt Jemima buttermilk cornbread mix, you can substitute with homemade cornbread or regular cornbread mix, adjusting the liquid accordingly. Adding diced apples or raisins can enhance the texture and flavor. Also, feel free to experiment with different nuts like walnuts if pecans are unavailable.
Serving Suggestions
This Applesauce Pecan Dressing pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or chicken recipes, making it a perfect side for holiday meals. Consider serving it alongside green beans or a fresh salad for a balanced plate. For a heartier meal, enjoy it with a scoop of gravy or alongside dishes like Mike'S Crab Au Gratin.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place the dressing in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Applesauce Pecan Dressing contains roughly 756 calories, with 11g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (144% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1345mg per serving (58% 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 make this dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator without baking. When ready to serve, simply bake it as directed, allowing extra time if it's cold from the fridge.
Is there a substitute for chicken bouillon?
Absolutely! You can use vegetable broth or homemade stock for a vegetarian option. If using low-sodium broth, adjust the seasoning accordingly to ensure the dressing is flavorful.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of cooked ones?
While cooked onions and celery provide a softer texture and deeper flavor, you can use fresh vegetables if you prefer a crunchier dressing. Just be aware that the cooking time may vary slightly.
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).