Gluten-Free Stuffing Recipe
If you’re looking for a flavorful and satisfying side that everyone at the table can enjoy, Gluten-Free Stuffing is here to save the day! This recipe transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into a hearty dish that’s crisp on top, tender inside, and absolutely bursting with the classic holiday flavors you crave. Whether you’re gathering for Thanksgiving or simply craving comfort food, this Gluten-Free Stuffing brings all the nostalgia—without a hint of gluten—so everyone can dig in with confidence and joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Gluten-Free Stuffing is how it leans on just a handful of key ingredients, each one chosen for its role in building flavor and texture. From the savory sautéed veggies to the rich broth and herbs, every element is essential in creating that perfect stuffing bite.
- Gluten-free bread cubes: Use 8 cups of hearty, crusty gluten-free bread cubes—dried or lightly toasted—for the best texture and a golden finish.
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup adds richness and helps the veggies develop that signature savory flavor.
- Onion: 1 medium, diced, brings sweetness and depth to the stuffing base.
- Celery: 2 stalks, diced, contribute classic crunch and color.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, infuses the dish with irresistible aroma.
- Fresh sage: 1 tablespoon chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried) for earthy, herby warmth.
- Fresh thyme leaves: 1 tablespoon (or 1 teaspoon dried) for a subtle, woodsy note.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon enhances all the flavors and ties everything together.
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon for a gentle kick of brightness.
- Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: 2 cups keep the stuffing moist and add savory depth. Use veggie broth to keep it vegetarian!
- Large eggs: 2, lightly beaten, help bind the mixture for a sliceable, cohesive texture.
How to Make Gluten-Free Stuffing
Step 1: Prep Your Bread
If your gluten-free bread isn’t already dried out, slice it into cubes and pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes. This step helps your bread soak up all the flavorful broth and seasonings without turning soggy, resulting in that perfect stuffing texture we all love.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies and Herbs
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, sautéing for 5–7 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. Stir in the garlic, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper, letting everything cook for another minute so the herbs bloom and infuse the mix with classic stuffing aroma.
Step 3: Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients
In a big mixing bowl, toss together your toasted bread cubes and that delicious medley of sautéed vegetables and herbs. In a separate bowl, whisk together the broth and eggs—this liquid magic is what brings the whole stuffing together!
Step 4: Moisten and Toss
Pour the broth-and-egg mixture evenly over the bread and veggies. Gently toss everything until the cubes are evenly moistened but not mushy. You want every little bread cube to soak up flavor while still holding its shape.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Transfer the stuffing mixture to your greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes to lock in moisture. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes. The top should turn beautifully golden and crisp, while the inside stays tender and savory.
How to Serve Gluten-Free Stuffing
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, sage, or thyme right before serving adds a burst of color and an extra pop of freshness. For a festive touch, consider scattering a few toasted pecans or dried cranberries over the top—these little additions can make your Gluten-Free Stuffing look as special as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Gluten-Free Stuffing is a natural alongside classic holiday mains like roast turkey, glazed ham, or a juicy roast chicken. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, green beans, or a crisp salad to round out any celebratory table.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking individual portions in muffin tins for adorable, grab-and-go servings at potlucks or buffets. Or, use hollowed-out mini pumpkins or squash as edible bowls for a show-stopping presentation. These fun twists give Gluten-Free Stuffing a playful, elegant edge.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Gluten-Free Stuffing keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply transfer any cooled stuffing to an airtight container and store it on a refrigerator shelf. The flavors just get better as they meld!
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze Gluten-Free Stuffing! Portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results—perfect for planning ahead or saving those holiday leftovers.
Reheating
To reheat, place the stuffing in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until warmed through (about 20 minutes). For a crisp top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes. A splash of broth added before reheating keeps everything moist and delicious.
FAQs
Can I make Gluten-Free Stuffing ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the stuffing up to one day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. On the big day, simply bake as directed. This method lets you enjoy more time with guests and less time in the kitchen.
What’s the best gluten-free bread for stuffing?
Choose a sturdy, crusty gluten-free loaf—think artisan or boule-style bread rather than soft sandwich loaves. The firmer texture holds up to the broth and prevents sogginess, giving your Gluten-Free Stuffing that classic holiday chew.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Definitely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. For a vegan twist, swap the butter with your favorite plant-based spread and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flax mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) in place of eggs.
How do I prevent my stuffing from getting too mushy?
Make sure your bread cubes are thoroughly dried or toasted before assembling the stuffing. Add the broth mixture gradually, stopping when the bread is moistened but still has some structure. A little patience here goes a long way toward perfect texture!
Can I add other ingredients to customize my Gluten-Free Stuffing?
Of course! Try mixing in sautéed mushrooms, cooked sausage, chopped apples, or dried cranberries for extra flavor and flair. This Gluten-Free Stuffing recipe is the perfect base for your family’s favorite add-ins.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this Gluten-Free Stuffing and share it with your loved ones! It’s a dish that brings everyone together, proving you don’t need gluten to have a truly delicious, festive side. Enjoy every savory, herby bite!
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Gluten-Free Stuffing Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This gluten-free stuffing recipe is a perfect savory side dish for your holiday table or any special occasion. Made with hearty gluten-free bread cubes, fresh herbs, and a flavorful blend of sautéed vegetables, it’s moist, fragrant, and easy to prepare. With a crisp golden top and a tender interior, this stuffing offers delicious comfort while being suitable for those following a gluten-free or vegetarian diet (when using vegetable broth).
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 cups gluten-free bread cubes (from a crusty loaf, dried or lightly toasted)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Instructions
- Prepare Bread Cubes: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. If your gluten-free bread isn’t already dried, spread the cubes evenly on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 10–15 minutes until firm but not browned excessively.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery and sauté for 5–7 minutes until they soften and become translucent. Stir in minced garlic, chopped sage, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper, then cook everything together for another minute to release the herbs’ aroma.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the toasted bread cubes into a large mixing bowl. Pour the sautéed vegetable and herb mixture over the bread cubes and gently fold to combine evenly.
- Mix Liquid Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the low-sodium broth and lightly beaten eggs until smooth. Pour this liquid mixture over the bread and vegetables, gently tossing to ensure all the bread cubes absorb the moisture.
- Assemble and Bake: Spread the stuffing mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and cover it tightly with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 15–20 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and crisp.
Notes
- Use a hearty gluten-free bread loaf for the best texture; avoid soft sandwich-style breads as they may become mushy.
- This stuffing can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; simply bake it covered the day of serving.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- If desired, add chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
