Rice-Pecan Stuffing
A flavorful rice stuffing with pecans, herbs, and tender vegetables, perfect for holiday poultry dishes or as a savory side for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rice according to box directions, substituting chicken bouillon for water and including seasoning packets.
- Melt margarine in a skillet over low heat.
- Add chopped onion, celery, and parsley to the skillet.
- Saute onion, celery, and parsley until tender, stirring frequently.
- Combine the cooked rice, pecans, and seasonings in a large mixing bowl.
- Toss ingredients together lightly to mix.
- Transfer the mixture to a large baking dish and bake at 350°F until hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or diced carrots to the onion and celery mixture. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter works well as a substitute. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and feel free to use leftover rice to save time. For a twist, try adding some dried cranberries for a hint of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
This Rice-Pecan Stuffing is a delightful side dish for your holiday turkey or any roasted meats. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Fantasia or Sausage Chicken Casserole. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a touch of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffing in a baking dish, add a splash of broth to keep it moist, and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. This method helps preserve the texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice-Pecan Stuffing contains roughly 41 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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 cook the rice and prepare the vegetable mixture, then combine them and store in the refrigerator. On the day of serving, bake it as directed. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Can I use a different type of rice?
Absolutely! While Uncle Ben's is recommended for its ease, you can substitute it with brown rice or jasmine rice. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of rice you choose to ensure it's cooked properly.
Is there a vegetarian version of this stuffing?
Yes, you can easily make this stuffing vegetarian by using vegetable bouillon instead of chicken bouillon. Also, ensure that the margarine is dairy-free if you want to keep it completely plant-based.
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).