Are you ready to transform your traditional holiday stuffing into a show-stopping side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds? This unique Pumpkin Stuffing recipe combines the classic comfort of bread-based stuffing with the rich, velvety texture of pumpkin puree, creating a mouthwatering blend of seasonal flavors that will instantly become a family favorite. Imagine the warm, aromatic notes of sage mingling with sweet pumpkin and perfectly toasted bread cubes - this isn't just a side dish, it's a culinary experience that will elevate your Thanksgiving table from ordinary to extraordinary!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 teaspoons sage
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- Cut the bread into small, even cubes (about 1/2 inch in size). Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until they are lightly golden and crisp. Remove and let cool.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and celery, sautéing until they become soft and translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, sautéed onions and celery, pumpkin puree, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Gradually add vegetable broth to the mixture, stirring gently. The bread should be moistened but not soggy. Adjust liquid as needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Transfer the stuffing mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove foil during the last 10 minutes to allow the top to become crispy and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the stuffing to set and flavors to meld together.
Tips
- Use day-old bread for the best texture - slightly stale bread absorbs flavors better and creates a more authentic stuffing consistency.
- Toast your bread cubes carefully to ensure they're crisp but not burned. This step adds depth of flavor and prevents soggy stuffing.
- Don't skip the vegetable broth - it's crucial for achieving the right moisture level. Add it gradually and mix gently to avoid compressing the bread.
- For extra richness, consider adding some butter or replacing part of the vegetable broth with chicken broth.
- Let the stuffing rest after baking to allow flavors to meld and the texture to set properly.
- If you prefer a moister stuffing, add a bit more broth; for a crispier top, remove the foil earlier in the baking process.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
