Chestnut & Mushroom Stuffing
This Chestnut & Mushroom Stuffing is a rich and savory side dish, perfect for holiday feasts or a comforting Sunday roast. The earthy mushrooms and aromatic herbs are beautifully complemented by the unique, slightly sweet texture of chestnuts, creating a truly memorable stuffing.
For 8 servings
Prepare Chestnuts and Bread: If using dried chestnuts, soak them in hot water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain thoroughly, peel if necessary, and roughly chop. Spread the bread cubes on a large baking sheet and let them air dry for several hours, or toast in a 250°F (120°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until lightly crisp but not browned. This prevents soggy stuffing.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cook Mushrooms and Herbs: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their liquid and it evaporates, and they begin to brown, about 7-10 minutes. Stir in the chopped chestnuts, fresh sage, and fresh thyme, cooking for 1-2 minutes more.
Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed vegetable and mushroom mixture to a very large mixing bowl. Add the dried bread cubes, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Moisten the Stuffing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm broth and the lightly beaten egg (if using). Pour the liquid mixture over the bread and vegetable mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly until all the bread cubes are moistened. Be careful not to overmix, which can make the stuffing dense.
Prepare for Baking: Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Transfer the stuffing mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly. Do not pack it down too tightly, as this can prevent it from getting fluffy.
Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes. This step allows the stuffing to cook through and absorb moisture without drying out.
Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the stuffing is heated through. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read 165°F (74°C).
Rest and Serve: Remove the stuffing from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.
Serve warm as a delicious side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use Stale Bread: The key to great stuffing is using truly stale bread. Fresh bread will absorb too much liquid and result in a soggy texture. If your bread isn't stale enough, cube it and toast it lightly in the oven.
- 2Don't Overpack: When transferring the stuffing to the baking dish, resist the urge to pack it down tightly. A looser pack allows for better air circulation, resulting in a lighter, fluffier texture and crispier top.
- 3Adjust Moisture: The amount of broth needed can vary based on your bread type and how dry it is. Start with the recommended amount and add a little more if the mixture still seems too dry after mixing.
- 4Fresh Herbs are Best: While dried herbs can be used in a pinch, fresh sage and thyme provide a much more vibrant and aromatic flavor that truly elevates this stuffing.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Protein
Sauté 1/2 pound of crumbled sausage (pork or turkey) or diced bacon with the onions and celery for a heartier stuffing.
Vegan VersionVegan Version
Replace unsalted butter with vegan butter or olive oil, ensure you use vegetable broth, and omit the egg for a delicious plant-based option.
Gluten FreeGluten-Free
Substitute the regular bread with a good quality gluten-free bread, ensuring it's also stale or lightly toasted before use.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Chestnuts and whole-grain bread contribute dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.
Nutrient-Dense Mushrooms
Mushrooms provide B vitamins, selenium, and antioxidants, supporting immune function and overall health.
Antioxidant-Rich Herbs
Fresh sage and thyme are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, adding flavor and health benefits.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can assemble the stuffing mixture (without baking) up to 1-2 days in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking as directed, possibly adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time.
