Best Vegetarian Chestnut Stuffing Recipe for Holidays

Stuffing is a quintessential side dish that elevates any holiday meal, and this best vegetarian chestnut stuffing recipe is a showstopper that will delight vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Rich with the earthy sweetness of chestnuts and the savory goodness of fresh herbs, this stuffing balances texture and flavor perfectly.

It’s hearty enough to stand on its own and pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, making it a versatile addition to your festive table.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is straightforward and uses wholesome ingredients to create a mouthwatering dish. Plus, it’s great for those seeking a plant-based alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Let’s dive into why this stuffing should be your go-to recipe this season!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian chestnut stuffing is packed with flavors and textures that bring warmth and comfort to your plate. The combination of toasted chestnuts, sautéed onions, celery, and fresh herbs creates a harmonious blend that’s both aromatic and satisfying.

Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also uses ingredients that are easy to find during the holiday season. The bread cubes soak up the flavorful broth, ensuring every bite is moist and delicious.

Plus, it’s a perfect recipe for those who want a meat-free stuffing without skimping on the traditional holiday experience.

It’s also incredibly customizable, so you can tweak it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want to add mushrooms for an earthy twist or cranberries for a touch of sweetness, this recipe serves as a fantastic base.

Ingredients

• 10 cups cubed day-old rustic bread (sourdough or whole wheat preferred)
• 1 ½ cups cooked and peeled chestnuts, roughly chopped
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 stalks celery, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup unsalted butter (or olive oil for vegan option)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
• ½ cup dried cranberries (optional, for a sweet contrast)

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Baking dish (9×13 inch recommended)
• Aluminum foil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until lightly golden and crisp. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the chestnuts: If using fresh chestnuts, score and roast them in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25 minutes before peeling. Alternatively, canned or vacuum-packed cooked chestnuts work great and save time.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
4. Add herbs and seasoning: Stir in the fresh sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to release the herb aromas.
5. Combine stuffing ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, chopped chestnuts, parsley, and dried cranberries if using. Slowly pour the vegetable broth over the mixture, tossing gently until the bread is evenly moistened but not soggy.
6. Transfer to baking dish: Spoon the stuffing mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover tightly with foil.
7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy top.
8. Serve warm: Let the stuffing cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this vegetarian chestnut stuffing!

Tips & Variations

“For the best texture, use day-old bread to soak up all the delicious flavors without turning mushy.”

• Make it vegan: Substitute butter with olive oil or vegan margarine, and use a vegetable broth that is free from animal products.
• Add mushrooms: Sauté 1 cup of chopped cremini or shiitake mushrooms with the onions and celery for an earthy depth.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread cubes, and verify your broth is gluten-free.
• Sweeten it up: Toss in chopped dried apricots or golden raisins along with cranberries for a touch of natural sweetness.
• Herb swap: Experiment with fresh oregano or marjoram if you want a slightly different herbal profile.
• Prepare ahead: Assemble the stuffing the day before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian chestnut stuffing pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. For a festive holiday meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and a hearty vegetarian main such as lentil loaf or stuffed squash.

For a lighter, weeknight dinner, it’s excellent with a crisp green salad and your favorite roasted mushrooms. You can also stuff it inside roasted acorn squash or bell peppers for an elegant presentation.

Looking for more delicious recipes to complement your stuffing? Check out our Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe for a rich pasta side, or indulge in something sweet later with the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe.

For a unique starter, the Clam Chowder San Francisco Recipe is a must-try!

Conclusion

This vegetarian chestnut stuffing recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish that everyone can enjoy. Its combination of toasted chestnuts, fresh herbs, and rustic bread creates a comforting and flavorful side that’s perfect for holidays or any special occasion.

The recipe is easy to customize and can be made ahead, making your holiday prep less stressful and more enjoyable.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, this stuffing is sure to become a favorite. Embrace the warmth and tradition of stuffing with a fresh, wholesome approach that honors the season’s best flavors.

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