Awesome Vegetarian Stuffing Recipe for Every Holiday Feast

Stuffing is a beloved classic side dish, especially during the holiday season, but it doesn’t have to be just a sidekick to meat-based meals. This awesome vegetarian stuffing recipe is packed with fresh veggies, aromatic herbs, and hearty bread cubes that soak up all the wonderful flavors.

It’s warm, comforting, and has just the right balance of texture and moisture to satisfy vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to elevate a weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and delivers big on taste.

Plus, it’s versatile enough to be customized with your favorite vegetables or nuts to make it uniquely yours.

Get ready to fill your kitchen with the cozy scent of sage, thyme, and roasted vegetables, and enjoy a stuffing that’s truly the star of the meal. Before you start, make sure you have your ingredients ready and your oven preheated.

Let’s dive into this delicious and hearty vegetarian stuffing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian stuffing is more than just a meat-free alternative — it’s a dish that stands on its own with bold flavors and satisfying textures. Unlike traditional stuffing recipes that rely heavily on butter and meat drippings, this version uses olive oil and vegetable broth for a lighter, yet equally flavorful result.

It’s perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or anytime you crave a comforting and wholesome side. The combination of sautéed onions, celery, mushrooms, and herbs creates a savory base, while the toasted bread cubes add a delightful crunch.

You’ll also appreciate how easy it is to customize this recipe with your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or even different bread types like sourdough or whole wheat.

Plus, it’s a great way to use up day-old bread and seasonal vegetables, making it budget-friendly and sustainable. For more comforting bread-based recipes, try our Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or the delightful Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe.

Ingredients

• 8 cups cubed day-old bread (use a rustic white or whole wheat bread)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 stalks celery, diced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary, crushed
• 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten (omit or substitute with flax eggs for vegan)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Knife and cutting board
• Oven

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the bread cubes out on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until lightly golden and crisp. This helps the bread absorb the broth without becoming mushy.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
3. Add the mushrooms and garlic to the skillet and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mushrooms have released their moisture and are tender.
4. Stir in the herbs: parsley, sage, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the vegetable mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the toasted bread cubes, nuts, and dried fruits if using. Toss gently to combine.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable broth and eggs (or flax eggs if vegan). Slowly pour this mixture over the bread and vegetables, stirring carefully to moisten everything evenly. The stuffing should be moist but not soggy; add a bit more broth if needed.
7. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy, and the stuffing is heated through.
9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and the stuffing to firm up slightly.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra burst of flavor, try adding sautéed apples or pears to the vegetable mixture. Toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds also make great crunchy additions!”

Feel free to swap out the bread type based on what you have available. Sourdough, multigrain, or even cornbread can add unique textures and flavors.

If you want a vegan version, simply omit the eggs and replace the broth with a bit more vegetable stock to achieve the right moisture.

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeño. Alternatively, swap the mushrooms for roasted chestnuts or cooked lentils to boost protein and texture.

If you’re interested in more vegetarian side ideas, you might enjoy our Half Runner Beans Recipe or the vegan-friendly Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian stuffing pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a hearty lentil loaf for a comforting meal.

It’s also a fantastic complement to vegetarian roasts or grilled portobello mushrooms.

For a festive touch, garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of toasted nuts before serving. If you’re looking for more bread-based recipes to accompany your meal, check out our Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe or the sweet and indulgent Glazed Twist Donut Recipe.

Conclusion

This awesome vegetarian stuffing recipe offers a delicious, wholesome alternative to traditional stuffing, perfect for those who want to enjoy a flavorful, meat-free side dish. Its combination of fresh vegetables, savory herbs, and perfectly toasted bread cubes creates a texture that’s both hearty and satisfying.

Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or a comforting weeknight dinner, this stuffing will impress your guests and family alike.

Easy to customize and adaptable to different dietary needs, it’s a versatile recipe you’ll return to again and again. Don’t forget to experiment with ingredients and make it your own, and be sure to explore our other delightful recipes for more inspiration in the kitchen.

Happy cooking!

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