Description

This Easy Stuffing recipe features savory smoked turkey bacon, fresh thyme and parsley, and plant-based butter, creating a warm and flavorful side dish perfect for family meals or celebrations. The combination of crusty bread, aromatic vegetables, and umami-rich vegetarian Worcestershire sauce with apple cider vinegar ensures a deliciously moist yet crispy stuffing that invites everyone to the table.

Ingredients

Scale

Stuffing Base

6 cups cubed crusty bread (day-old)
1 cup vegetable broth
2 tbsp plant-based butter

Aromatics and Flavorings

1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 stalks celery, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 slices smoked turkey bacon, diced
2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2 tsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Base: Cube the crusty bread and let it dry out slightly by air drying for a few hours or lightly toasting in the oven. This helps the bread absorb moisture without becoming mushy.
Cook the Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the plant-based butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Smoked Turkey Bacon and Herbs: Dice the smoked turkey bacon and add it to the skillet. Cook until crisp and browned. Stir in fresh thyme and parsley, allowing their aromas to blend with the other ingredients.
Combine and Moisten: Transfer the sautéed mixture to a large mixing bowl with the bread cubes. Add vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper. Gently toss everything together until the bread pieces are evenly coated but not soggy.
Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffing in a greased baking dish, cover loosely with foil, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crisp.

Notes

Use day-old bread to soak up flavors better without turning mushy.
Add broth gradually to balance moisture, ensuring stuffing is moist but not overly wet.
Always use fresh thyme and parsley for vibrant flavor and aroma.
Dice ingredients uniformly for even cooking and consistent texture.
Let mixed stuffing rest for 10 minutes before baking to absorb flavors fully.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 210
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: stuffing, smoked turkey bacon, fresh herbs, plant-based butter, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, holiday side, comfort food