Celery Stuffing
A savory celery stuffing with aromatic herbs, perfect for turkey or chicken, offering classic flavors that suit festive and family meals alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer the finely diced celery in boiling water for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Drain the celery, reserving 1 cup of the liquid.
- Cook the minced onion in butter; do not brown.
- Combine the seasonings and stuffing croutons in a large bowl.
- Add the cooked celery, 1 cup of celery liquid, and the cooked onion to the bowl.
- Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Stuff the mixture into the body cavity of a turkey or chicken.
- Cook the turkey at 25 minutes per pound at 325°F (163°C).
- The stuffing will fill a 10 to 14 pound turkey.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using chicken or vegetable broth instead of water when simmering the celery. You can also substitute the stuffing croutons with homemade bread cubes for a heartier texture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the butter with olive oil and ensure your croutons are meat-free. Experiment with herbs like thyme for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This celery stuffing pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or chicken, making it a classic choice for holiday meals. Serve alongside sides like mashed potatoes or green bean casserole for a complete feast. Consider adding a fruit cup salad for a refreshing contrast to the savory stuffing. It also complements dishes like your Favorite Bran Bread well, enhancing the meal.
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 heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. For best results, add a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Celery Stuffing contains roughly 541 calories, with 12g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (229% of the Daily Value), iron (74% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2332mg per serving (101% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of stuffing the turkey. Store the mixture in the refrigerator and stuff the turkey just before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld and saves you time on the big day.
What can I use if I don't have poultry seasoning?
If you don't have poultry seasoning, you can create your own blend using dried thyme, rosemary, and marjoram. A combination of sage and thyme works well too. Adjust according to your taste preferences, ensuring the flavors enhance the stuffing without overpowering it.
Is it safe to stuff the turkey the night before?
It is generally not recommended to stuff the turkey the night before due to food safety concerns. Bacteria can grow in the stuffing if it's left in the bird for too long. Instead, prepare the stuffing ahead of time and stuff the turkey just before cooking to ensure safety and optimal flavor.
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).