Irresistible Cranberry Pecan Stuffing Recipe for Holidays

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever tasted a dish that perfectly captures the essence of comfort during the holidays? Imagine the warm, inviting aroma of Cranberry Pecan Stuffing wafting through your home, with its sweet and tangy cranberries dancing alongside crunchy pecans. This delightful stuffing is not just an accompaniment; it’s the star of the show, bringing together flavors and textures that create a memorable dining experience.

Growing up, our family gatherings were filled with laughter and delicious food, but there was one dish that always stood out: my grandmother’s Cranberry Pecan Stuffing. The way she layered flavors and textures inspired me to recreate it for my own holiday meals. As you prepare this dish, you’ll feel that connection too, bringing joy to your table during Thanksgiving or Christmas. With its delightful balance of sweetness from the cranberries and nuttiness from the pecans, this stuffing promises to elevate your holiday feast.

Key Ingredients For Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Day-Old Bread: Use a rustic bread or sourdough for the best texture; it absorbs flavors beautifully without becoming mushy.
• Dried Cranberries: Opt for unsweetened cranberries for a tart flavor that complements the sweetness of other ingredients.
• Pecans: Choose raw or lightly toasted pecans for a crunchy texture; chop them coarsely to enhance their nutty flavor.
• Onion: A yellow onion works best as it provides sweetness when sautéed, adding depth to the stuffing.
• Celery: Fresh celery adds a crunchy element; ensure it’s finely chopped to blend seamlessly with other ingredients.
• Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium vegetable broth to control saltiness while enhancing flavor; homemade broth is ideal if available.
• Fresh Herbs: Thyme and sage bring an aromatic touch; fresh herbs will elevate the overall taste significantly.
• Butter: Unsalted butter enhances richness in flavor; use it for sautéing vegetables and enriching the stuffing mixture.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a large baking dish by greasing it lightly with nonstick spray or butter.

Second Step : Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. Add chopped onions and celery to the skillet. Sauté them until they become soft and translucent, which should take about five minutes.

Third Step : Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine cubed day-old bread, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and fresh herbs. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Fourth Step : Add Sautéed Mixture

Pour the sautéed vegetable mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients. Drizzle in vegetable broth gradually while stirring until everything is well combined but not overly soggy.

Fifth Step : Transfer To Baking Dish

Spoon the stuffing mixture into your prepared baking dish. Dot the top with remaining butter for extra richness and cover with foil.

Sixth Step : Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes covered. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown on top.

Transfer to plates and serve warm as a delightful side for your holiday feast!

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Stale Bread: Day-old bread is essential as it absorbs moisture without becoming mushy; if needed, leave fresh bread out overnight.
• Add More Nuts: Feel free to include walnuts or pistachios along with pecans for added crunch and flavor variation.
• Customize Flavors: Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth or add apple cubes for extra sweetness.

Presentation Ideas

This Cranberry Pecan Stuffing is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Roast Turkey: This stuffing complements the rich flavors of roast turkey, adding a sweet and nutty contrast that enhances the overall meal experience.
• Grilled Chicken: Serve this stuffing alongside grilled chicken for a delightful combination. The tartness of cranberries balances the savory notes of the chicken.
• Vegetarian Dishes: Pair it with roasted vegetables or stuffed peppers to create a hearty vegetarian option that is both filling and flavorful.

Cooking Tips

To achieve the best results with your Cranberry Pecan Stuffing, consider these helpful tips:

First, use day-old bread for optimal texture. Stale bread absorbs moisture better and creates a perfect base for your stuffing. If you only have fresh bread, toast it lightly before use.

Next, toast the pecans in a dry pan until fragrant. This step enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your dish. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Lastly, adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Adding herbs like thyme or sage can elevate the flavor profile of your stuffing, making it even more delicious.

Storage Instructions

Proper storage is essential to keep your Cranberry Pecan Stuffing fresh. Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to four days.

If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing portions. Place the stuffing in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

When reheating, ensure that it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

FAQs

Can I make Cranberry Pecan Stuffing ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing Cranberry Pecan Stuffing ahead of time can save you effort on busy cooking days. You can assemble all ingredients up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. It may need additional baking time since you’ll be cooking it chilled.

What type of bread works best for stuffing?

Choosing the right bread is crucial for delicious stuffing. For Cranberry Pecan Stuffing, use bread that is sturdy yet soft enough to absorb flavors. A combination of sourdough and whole wheat bread works well because they add depth without overwhelming other flavors.

Can I substitute cranberries with another fruit?

Yes! While cranberries are traditional in this recipe, you can experiment with other dried fruits like apricots or cherries if desired. They will bring different flavor profiles but still create a tasty stuffing mix.

Is this stuffing suitable for vegans?

To make this Cranberry Pecan Stuffing vegan-friendly, simply replace any butter used with plant-based alternatives or oil. Ensure that your broth is also plant-based. This way, everyone at the table can enjoy this delightful dish!

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Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Cranberry Pecan Stuffing is a festive and flavorful side dish that embodies the spirit of the holidays. With its perfect blend of sweet, tart cranberries and crunchy pecans, this stuffing elevates any holiday meal. Whether served alongside roast turkey or grilled chicken, it promises to be a memorable addition to your table. Easy to prepare and delightful in taste, this recipe is sure to become a cherished tradition.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1 cup dried unsweetened cranberries
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup finely chopped celery
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 tsp fresh sage, chopped
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Sauté onion and celery until soft, about 5 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, cranberries, pecans, thyme, and sage.
4. Add sautéed vegetables to the bowl and drizzle in broth gradually while mixing until combined but not soggy.
5. Transfer stuffing to the baking dish, dot with remaining butter, and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes covered; then remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (about 200g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: For extra crunch, add walnuts or pistachios along with pecans. Customize flavors by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Use stale or toasted bread for the best texture.