You'll love this Cranberry Pecan Stuffing! It's a longtime family favorite that brings together the tart pop of fresh cranberries and the crunchy richness of toasted pecans. The mixture of savory bread cubes, aromatic herbs, and tender veggies creates a well-balanced, comforting flavor you can't resist. It's the perfect side for roasted turkey or chicken, and its vibrant colors and inviting aroma will have everyone reaching for seconds. Best of all, this stuffing is easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time. Want to know more about its history and how to put your own spin on this classic dish?
Key Takeaways
- Cranberry Pecan Stuffing is a classic holiday side dish with a balance of tart cranberries and crunchy pecans.
- The recipe has origins tracing back to early North American settlers and has become a cherished family tradition.
- The stuffing features a blend of savory bread cubes, aromatic herbs, and a vibrant color palette that enhances the overall dining experience.
- The dish is versatile, suitable as both a side and a main attraction, and can be easily adapted for various dietary needs.
- Cranberry Pecan Stuffing is likely to become a new family favorite, appealing to both children and adults with its delicious flavors and textural contrasts.
History
The origins of cranberry pecan stuffing can be traced back to the early settlers of North America. These resourceful pioneers would gather wild cranberries and combine them with the nutty flavor of pecans, creating a delightful side dish that quickly became a family favorite.
As the years passed, this beloved recipe was passed down through generations, each family adding their own unique twist.
Today, cranberry pecan stuffing remains a cherished tradition, gracing holiday tables across the continent. The tart burst of cranberries paired with the buttery richness of pecans creates a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds.
Whether baked inside a roasted turkey or served as a standalone side, this stuffing is a true culinary delight. Its vibrant colors and inviting aroma make it a feast for the senses, evoking memories of cozy gatherings and warm, heartfelt celebrations.
Recipe
Cranberry Pecan Stuffing is a delightful side dish that combines the tart, fruity flavor of cranberries with the crunch and nuttiness of pecans. This recipe is a perfect accompaniment to roasted turkey or chicken, adding a touch of holiday flair to any meal.
The blend of savory bread cubes, aromatic herbs, and sweet-tart cranberries creates a well-balanced and comforting stuffing that's sure to please. The addition of pecans adds a delightful texture and a hint of buttery richness, making this dish a true crowd-pleaser.
- 1 loaf of day-old bread, cubed
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup pecan halves, toasted and chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, cranberries, pecans, onion, celery, garlic, thyme, and sage.
Pour in the broth and the beaten eggs, and then drizzle the melted butter over the mixture. Gently toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and crispy.
Serve the cranberry pecan stuffing warm, alongside your main dish, and enjoy the perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Cooking Steps
First, you'll need to toast the bread cubes until they're crispy and golden.
Next, sauté the onions and celery in a pan until they're nice and soft.
Then, you'll add the tangy cranberries and crunchy pecans to the mix.
Step 1. Toast the Bread Cubes
Next, you'll want to toast the bread cubes. This step is easy and important! Grab a baking sheet and spread out the cubed bread.
Pop it into the oven preheated to 350°F. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway, until the bread is lightly golden and crispy. You'll love the amazing aroma as the bread toasts – it's like fresh-baked heaven!
Toasting the bread cubes is key for getting the perfect texture in your stuffing. The crispy edges will soak up all the delicious flavors, while the soft centers will keep the stuffing nice and fluffy.
Plus, the toasted bread adds a wonderful nuttiness that complements the cranberries and pecans so well. I found this delicious cranberry orange bread recipe online and I’m so glad I did. The combination of the tart cranberries and bright orange flavor really shines through in this recipe. I can’t wait to make it for my friends and family during the holidays.
Once the bread is perfectly toasted, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
You're now ready for the next step – assembling the rest of the stuffing! Get excited, because this is where the magic really begins.
Step 2. Sauté Onions and Celery
With the bread cubes toasted to perfection, you'll sauté the onions and celery next.
In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle some olive oil. Toss in the diced onions and celery, and let the mixture sizzle and soften, stirring occasionally. Soon, the kitchen will fill with the savory aroma of caramelizing onions and the fresh, crisp scent of celery.
After about 5-7 minutes, the vegetables should be tender and slightly translucent. Be careful not to let them brown too much – you want them to remain bright and flavorful.
Once they're ready, transfer the sautéed onions and celery to a large bowl, where you'll mix them with the toasted bread cubes, cranberries, pecans, and the remaining stuffing ingredients.
Get ready to create a delightfully textured and flavored stuffing that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Step 3. Add the Cranberries and Pecans
With the sautéed onions and celery now in the bowl, add the dried cranberries and chopped pecans.
The bright red cranberries will add a burst of tangy-sweet flavor, while the crunchy pecans bring a lovely nutty taste.
Gently stir everything together until the cranberries and pecans are evenly distributed.
You can already smell the enticing aroma of this delicious stuffing!
The vibrant colors and textures will make this dish a real showstopper.
Feel free to adjust the amounts of cranberries and pecans to suit your personal preferences.
You want just the right balance of flavors and textures to complement the other ingredients.
Once everything is combined, your stuffing is ready for the next step.
Get ready to fill the turkey or bake it on its own – this cranberry pecan stuffing is going to be the star of the holiday meal!
Step 4. Add Broth and Seasonings
The addition of broth and seasonings will infuse the stuffing with robust, complementary flavors.
First, pour in the broth – chicken or vegetable will work great – and stir it into the mixture. This liquid will soak into the bread, making it extra moist and savory.
Next, sprinkle in a pinch of salt, some ground black pepper, and a dash of dried thyme. These classic herbs and spices really heighten the overall taste.
Don't forget a sprinkle of garlic powder, too, for a little extra zing! Give everything a good stir to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Now, take a deep breath and savor that amazing aroma. The cranberries, pecans, and broth have come together to create a mouthwatering stuffing. Your kitchen is starting to smell like the holidays!
With the broth and seasonings added, your Cranberry Pecan Stuffing is almost ready for the oven.
Step 5. Bake the Stuffing in the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grab your baking dish and give it a light coating of nonstick spray. Carefully transfer the stuffing mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. This'll help it bake up nice and fluffy.
Now, cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil. Bake for another 15-20 minutes, until the top is lightly golden brown. Mmm, you can already smell that delicious aroma filling up your kitchen!
Once it's done, let the stuffing cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop it up and watch as those tasty cranberries and pecans shine.
Pair it with your juicy turkey or ham for a match made in heaven. Your guests are going to love this flavorful and comforting side dish. Just wait and see!
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, this cranberry pecan stuffing offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it an excellent choice for your holiday feast. The tart and juicy cranberries perfectly balance the rich, buttery pecans, creating a symphony of taste that will delight your guests.
The hearty bread cubes soak up all the wonderful juices, resulting in a moist and satisfying stuffing. As you serve this dish, you'll notice the inviting aroma wafting through the room, making mouths water in anticipation.
With each bite, your senses will be treated to the warm, comforting flavors of the holidays. The vibrant colors of the cranberries and the crunchy texture of the pecans add visual and textural interest, making this stuffing a true feast for the senses.
Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or the star of the show, this cranberry pecan stuffing is sure to become a new family favorite. Its versatility and deliciousness will have your loved ones coming back for seconds, making it the perfect addition to your holiday table.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Dried Cranberries for Fresh Ones?
Yes, you can substitute dried cranberries for fresh ones. Dried cranberries work well in recipes that call for fresh cranberries, adding a similar tart flavor. They're easier to find year-round and don't require any additional preparation.
How Long Can the Stuffing Be Stored?
The stuffing can be stored for 3-4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Do I Need to Toast the Pecans Before Adding Them?
Should you toast the pecans before adding them? Toasting the pecans can enhance their flavor and texture, but it's not strictly necessary. The choice is yours – either way, the pecans will add a delightful crunch to your dish.
Can I Make the Stuffing Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the stuffing ahead of time. Prepare it a day or two in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and just reheat it before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and saves you time on the day.
Will the Stuffing Work for Other Poultry Besides Turkey?
Absolutely! The stuffing can be used with other poultry like chicken or duck. It'll complement the flavors and provide a tasty addition to your meal. Feel free to experiment with different birds – the stuffing's versatility is its strength.
Rachel is all about nostalgic comfort food with a modern twist. She brings the flavors of classic American diners to Cook if Ya, with her takes on burgers, fries, and milkshakes. Rachel’s love for simple, hearty meals brings a bit of retro flair to the table, reminding us all of the joys of classic diner dishes.
