This Herb-Infused Thanksgiving Stuffing is a delightful twist on the classic dish, bringing together fragrant herbs and tart cranberries with the satisfying crunch of pecans. It's the perfect addition to your holiday table, promising to be both comforting and memorable.
Sourdough bread forms the sturdy base, offering a hint of tanginess that pairs well with the herbs. The pecans add a nutty crunch, while the unsalted butter is key for a rich flavor. Onion and celery provide a classic aromatic foundation, with garlic adding depth. Dried cranberries introduce a tart sweetness. The fresh thyme, sage, and parsley bring vibrant herby notes. Finally, vegetable broth moistens the mixture without overpowering the other flavors.
This stuffing pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey or chicken and a side of green beans or Brussels sprouts. It's also delightful as a side dish at any holiday feast or even a cozy dinner.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread your cubed sourdough bread evenly on a baking sheet. Once the oven's ready, pop the bread in for about 10 minutes until it's lightly browned. This toasting step is crucial for that perfect texture in your stuffing.
In the meantime, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, celery, and minced garlic. Let them sauté, stirring occasionally, until they're nice and soft. This should take around 5-7 minutes.
Add the pecans, cranberries, thyme, sage, and parsley to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Now, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the toasted bread cubes with your sautéed herb mixture. Toss them together until everything is evenly mixed.
Pour the vegetable broth over your mixture, stirring gently to moisten all the bread cubes evenly. Season with a good pinch of salt and pepper to your taste.
Transfer the stuffing into a greased baking dish. Cover it with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes to get that lovely crispy top.