Mushroom-Bacon Stuffing
A savory mushroom and bacon stuffing with aromatic herbs, perfect for holiday dinners or special family gatherings. The combination of crispy bacon, earthy mushrooms, and fragrant herbs creates a flavorful side dish that pairs well with roasted meats and festive menus.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crisp, then drain and crumble into bowls.
- Pour off all but 1/4 cup bacon drippings from the skillet.
- Add melted margarine, mushrooms, celery, onion, sage, marjoram, salt, and pepper to the drippings.
- Saute the mixture for 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Remove from heat and add bread crumbs, chicken broth, and the vegetable mixture.
- Toss everything well to combine.
- Spread the mixture in a large greased baking dish.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 to 45 minutes until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using pancetta instead of bacon, or try sautéing some garlic along with the vegetables. You can also use whole grain bread for a nuttier taste. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried ones for a more vibrant flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Mushroom-Bacon Stuffing pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or chicken and is an excellent side for holiday meals. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting dinner, serve it with Chicken In Golden Sauce for a delightful combination of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers 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 in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. You can also add a splash of broth to keep it moist while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mushroom-Bacon Stuffing contains roughly 990 calories, with 11g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1061mg per serving (46% 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 the stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for white bread?
You can use any type of bread you prefer, such as sourdough, whole grain, or gluten-free bread. Just make sure to cube it into similar-sized pieces for even absorption of the broth and flavors.
Can I add other vegetables to this stuffing?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or even chopped nuts for added texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is tender.
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).