Amish Turkey Stuffing Recipe for a Perfect Holiday Meal

Originally posted on August 8, 2022 @ 5:37 am

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a classic Amish turkey stuffing wafting through your kitchen during the holidays. This timeless recipe is steeped in tradition, blending simple, wholesome ingredients into a hearty, flavorful dish that perfectly complements your Thanksgiving turkey or any festive meal.

Amish cooking prides itself on homestyle goodness—nothing fancy, just pure, honest flavors that bring family and friends together around the table.

This Amish turkey stuffing recipe uses fresh herbs, savory broth, and a delightful mix of bread cubes and vegetables to create a stuffing that’s moist, tender, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a holiday novice, this easy-to-follow recipe will help you craft a side dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Let’s dive into the magic of this beloved Amish recipe that celebrates tradition, simplicity, and deliciousness all in one bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Amish turkey stuffing recipe offers a perfect balance of rustic charm and rich flavors. It’s incredibly versatile and can be served inside the turkey or baked separately as a casserole.

What sets Amish stuffing apart is its reliance on fresh, natural ingredients, avoiding unnecessary additives or complicated techniques.

The stuffing is:

  • Full of comforting, familiar flavors like sage, thyme, and onion.
  • Moist and tender with a perfect crumbly texture.
  • Simple to prepare, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
  • Perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion where you want a taste of home.

Plus, paired with a succulent roast turkey, this stuffing can be the star of your meal or a delightful supporting act that everyone raves about.

Ingredients

  • 10 cups of day-old white bread, cubed (about 1/2-inch cubes)
  • 1 cup celery, diced
  • 1 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or turkey broth for richer flavor)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley for added freshness

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking dish or roasting pan (if baking separately)
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Oven (preheated to 350°F / 175°C)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the bread cubes: If your bread isn’t already stale, cube the bread and spread it out on a baking sheet. Bake at 250°F (120°C) for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bread is dry but not browned. Set aside to cool.
  2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent browning.
  3. Combine herbs and seasoning: Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in the sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. If using fresh parsley, add it now for a burst of green and flavor.
  4. Mix stuffing base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes and the sautéed vegetable mixture. Toss gently to distribute evenly.
  5. Add eggs and broth: Pour the beaten eggs over the bread mixture, then slowly add the chicken broth, stirring gently. The mixture should be moist but not soggy—you may not need all the broth, so add gradually.
  6. Stuff or bake: If you plan to stuff your turkey, loosely fill the cavity just before roasting. Make sure not to pack it too tightly, allowing heat to circulate. Alternatively, transfer the stuffing to a buttered baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes to brown the top.
  7. Serve warm: Once cooked, let the stuffing rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

“Using day-old bread is key for the perfect texture—fresh bread can make stuffing too mushy.”

  • Add sausage or bacon: For a heartier stuffing, brown 1/2 pound of sausage or chopped bacon with the vegetables.
  • Incorporate fruits: Diced apples or dried cranberries add a subtle sweetness that balances the savory herbs.
  • Make it gluten-free: Swap regular bread with gluten-free bread cubes for a safe alternative.
  • Use vegetable broth: For a vegetarian twist, use vegetable broth and omit eggs or replace with a flax egg.
  • Herb variations: Experiment with rosemary, marjoram, or parsley to customize the flavor profile.
  • Make ahead: Prepare the stuffing mixture a day in advance, keep covered in the fridge, and bake just before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1 cup)
Calories 220
Protein 6g
Carbohydrates 28g
Fat 9g
Saturated Fat 5g
Cholesterol 55mg
Sodium 480mg
Fiber 2g

Serving Suggestions

Amish turkey stuffing pairs wonderfully with a classic roast turkey, but it’s also fantastic alongside other proteins like ham, roast chicken, or even a vegetarian main dish.

For a full holiday spread, consider serving it with mashed potatoes, green beans almondine, and cranberry sauce. If you prefer a lighter meal, this stuffing goes well with a fresh salad like the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

Leftovers can be transformed into delicious sandwiches or reheated as a side for cozy meals. For more vegetable-rich sides, explore recipes such as the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food or the hearty Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide.

Conclusion

Crafting the perfect Amish turkey stuffing is all about embracing simplicity and tradition. This recipe delivers a soulful blend of fresh herbs, tender bread cubes, and savory vegetables that come together in perfect harmony.

Whether you’re stuffing the bird or baking it separately, the result is a moist, flavorful dish that elevates any holiday meal or family dinner.

With easy-to-follow steps and versatile options for customization, this stuffing recipe is ideal for both beginners and seasoned cooks. It’s a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table, making your celebrations even more memorable.

For those inspired to explore more wholesome recipes, check out our collection of vegan and vegetarian dishes that complement this stuffing beautifully.

📖 Recipe Card: Amish Turkey Stuffing

Description: A traditional Amish-style turkey stuffing made with simple, wholesome ingredients. This recipe yields a moist and flavorful side perfect for holiday meals.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT65M

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 10 cups cubed day-old white bread
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Sauté celery and onion until tender, about 5 minutes.
  4. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  5. Beat eggs with chicken broth and pour over the bread mixture.
  6. Mix gently until bread is moistened but not soggy.
  7. Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  9. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until top is golden brown.
  10. Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 28 g

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Marta K

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