Old-Fashioned Bread Stuffing For 12 Pound Turkey

Prep: 15 min Cuisine: American

A classic bread stuffing with tender onions, celery, sage, and poultry seasoning, perfect for enhancing roasted turkey and suitable for family or holiday gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups finely chopped onion
  • 1 1/2 cups finely chopped celery
  • 1 stick butter or margarine
  • 8 cups dry unseasoned bread cubes
  • 1/4 cup water or broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon sage
  • 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
  • pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook onion and celery in butter until tender.
  2. Mix seasonings and sprinkle over bread cubes.
  3. Add onion mixture and water and combine.
  4. Stuff turkey and roast immediately.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using homemade broth instead of water. You can also substitute the bread with gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions. If you prefer a bit more texture, adding chopped walnuts or pecans can enhance the stuffing. Be sure to check the seasoning before stuffing the turkey, as the bread absorbs flavors. This stuffing pairs beautifully with Broccoli And Pea Salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this stuffing as a delightful side dish alongside roasted turkey and cranberry sauce. It complements mashed potatoes and gravy beautifully. For a festive touch, consider pairing with Rosemary'S Mississippi Mud Pie for dessert. This dish is perfect for Thanksgiving or any family gathering, offering a comforting and traditional flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the stuffing in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also add a splash of broth to keep it moist while reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Old-Fashioned Bread Stuffing For 12 Pound Turkey contains roughly 118 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (84% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 661mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).

118 kcal 6% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.9g 6% DV
Total Fat 5.3g 7% DV
Carbs 16.2g 6% DV
Fiber 4.1g 15% DV
Sugar 3.9g 8% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 661mg 29% DV
Potassium 317.3mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 1.9mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 20.9mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 76mg 84% DV
Calcium 88.5mg 7% DV
Iron 1.3mg 7% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

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. Mix all the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to stuff the turkey right before roasting to maintain its freshness. If baking separately, you can bake it the next day, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

What type of bread works best for this stuffing?

For the best texture, use a sturdy bread like French or Italian. Avoid soft sandwich bread, as it can become mushy. If you want a unique flavor, try using cornbread or sourdough. Just ensure the bread is dry for optimal absorption of flavors without becoming soggy.

Is it possible to make this stuffing vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter and use vegetable broth instead of water or chicken broth. This will keep the stuffing flavorful while accommodating vegetarian diets. You can also explore adding more vegetables like mushrooms for added depth in 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).

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