Bread And Celery Stuffing
A savory stuffing combining crispy bread crumbs, tender celery, sweet apples, and aromatic seasonings, perfect for enhancing roasted poultry and ideal for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour boiling water over bread crumbs and let stand for 20 minutes.
- Squeeze out excess water from the soaked bread crumbs.
- Add chopped onion, finely cut celery, eggs, melted butter, salt, pepper, poultry seasoning, and chopped apples to the bread crumbs.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Make just before serving, cooked with turkey or roasted chicken.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of herbs like thyme or sage in place of poultry seasoning. If you have fresh bread, lightly toast it before tearing it into crumbs for a crispier texture. You can also substitute apples with dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet twist. This stuffing can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving, making it a convenient choice for holiday meals.
Serving Suggestions
This bread and celery stuffing pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or chicken, enhancing the flavors of your main dish. Consider serving it alongside cranberry sauce for a delightful contrast. For a complete meal, offer sides like Mustard Potatoes or green beans. It also works well as a stuffing for bell peppers or zucchini, making it versatile for different occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffing in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can add a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bread And Celery Stuffing contains roughly 1243 calories, with 17g protein, 185g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (138% of the Daily Value), calcium (55% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2500mg per serving (109% 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 stuffing vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this stuffing vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of boiling water and omitting any meat-based ingredients. This will still provide a rich flavor and a satisfying texture. Additionally, consider adding nuts or mushrooms for extra depth and nutrition.
What kind of bread is best for stuffing?
Stale bread works best for stuffing as it absorbs moisture without becoming mushy. Ideally, use a hearty bread like sourdough or a rustic loaf. You can also mix in some whole grain bread for added flavor and texture. Avoid soft sandwich bread, as it may not hold up well during cooking.
Can I freeze the stuffing?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffing before cooking it. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, ensuring it's heated through before serving.
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).