Vegan Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving Ideas for Delicious Meals

Thanksgiving is all about gathering around the table with loved ones and enjoying hearty, comforting dishes that bring warmth and joy. One essential side dish that often steals the show is stuffing.

However, traditional stuffing recipes often include butter, eggs, and meat-based broth, which aren’t suitable for vegan diets. Whether you’re fully plant-based or simply looking to add a delicious vegan option to your holiday menu, this vegan stuffing recipe is the perfect solution.

Loaded with savory herbs, sautéed vegetables, and wholesome bread, this stuffing offers all the classic flavors you crave without any animal products. It’s easy to prepare, wonderfully aromatic, and sure to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike.

Plus, it makes a great make-ahead dish to save you time on the big day. Dive into this recipe and discover how simple it is to create a moist and flavorful vegan stuffing that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan stuffing recipe is a game-changer for your Thanksgiving feast. Here’s why:

• Rich and Savory: The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, onions, and celery creates a deeply flavorful base that tastes just like traditional stuffing.
• Moist and Tender: Using vegetable broth and a touch of olive oil ensures the bread stays perfectly moist without being soggy.
• Easy to Customize: Add nuts, dried fruits, or mushrooms to tailor the stuffing to your taste.
• Vegan and Allergy-Friendly: This recipe contains no eggs or dairy, making it suitable for most dietary restrictions.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and bake on Thanksgiving day to free up oven space.

Ingredients

• 10 cups cubed day-old bread (sourdough or whole wheat works great)
• 1/4 cup olive oil or vegan butter
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, finely diced (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 teaspoons dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Large mixing bowl
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Aluminum foil (for covering during baking)

Instructions

1. Prepare the bread: Cut your day-old bread into 1-inch cubes. Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and toast them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until lightly golden and dry. Set aside to cool.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil or vegan butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add herbs and seasoning: Stir in the dried sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
4. Combine bread and veggies: In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, and chopped parsley. If using, add walnuts and dried cranberries now for extra texture and sweetness.
5. Add broth gradually: Pour in the vegetable broth 1/2 cup at a time, gently tossing the mixture with a wooden spoon. The goal is to moisten the bread without making it soggy. You may not need all the broth depending on your bread type.
6. Transfer to baking dish: Lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the stuffing mixture evenly in the dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake the stuffing: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to brown the top slightly.
8. Serve warm: Let the stuffing sit for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld perfectly.

Tips & Variations

“For a gluten-free option, substitute the bread with gluten-free bread cubes or use cooked quinoa for a grain-based stuffing.”

• Add mushrooms: Sauté 1 cup of chopped mushrooms with the vegetables for a deeper, umami flavor.
• Use fresh herbs: Feel free to replace dried herbs with fresh ones for a brighter taste—use about three times the amount of fresh herbs.
• Make it nutty: Toast the walnuts or pecans before adding for a crunchier texture and richer flavor.
• Sweeten it up: Toss in dried apricots or cherries instead of cranberries for a different fruity twist.
• Make vegan gravy to go: Pair this stuffing with a rich vegan gravy. Check out the Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes for inspiration.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan stuffing pairs beautifully with a variety of Thanksgiving mains and sides. Serve it alongside a hearty vegan roast or a simple mushroom gravy for a classic holiday meal.

For a lighter option, pair with roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed green beans.

If you’re looking to complete your plant-based holiday menu, consider trying other flavorful recipes like the Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals or the Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.

For a sweet finish, the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious is a must-try dessert!

Conclusion

This vegan stuffing recipe is a delicious and satisfying addition to your Thanksgiving table that everyone can enjoy. It captures the essence of traditional stuffing with plant-based ingredients, ensuring no one misses out on this classic holiday favorite.

The versatility of this recipe means you can customize it with your favorite veggies, nuts, and fruits to create a unique dish every year.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this stuffing is easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give it a try this holiday season and watch it become a cherished tradition.

For more creative and hearty vegan recipes, explore our collection and keep your meals exciting and wholesome.

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