Chestnut Cranberry Stuffing Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious

As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, nothing says cozy autumn like a hearty stuffing on your dinner table. This Chestnut Cranberry Stuffing Recipe Vegetarian is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, perfect for those who prefer meat-free meals without compromising on flavor.

Combining the earthy richness of roasted chestnuts with the tart burst of cranberries, this stuffing offers layers of texture and taste. Whether you’re preparing a festive holiday feast or a comforting family dinner, this recipe promises a blend of warmth, sweetness, and savory goodness in every bite.

Beyond just being delicious, this vegetarian stuffing is easy to prepare and uses wholesome ingredients that can be found in most grocery stores. It’s a wonderful side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a simple green salad.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress guests with something a little different yet utterly satisfying. Let’s dive into how you can make this scrumptious stuffing a star on your dining table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chestnut cranberry stuffing is a harmonious combination of flavors and textures that bring a festive touch to any meal. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Rich and Nutty: Roasted chestnuts add a creamy, subtly sweet crunch that elevates the dish.
• Tart and Sweet: Dried cranberries provide a fruity contrast that brightens the stuffing.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: Made without any meat or animal-based broth, perfect for vegetarians and vegans (with a simple broth swap).
• Versatile: Can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving, making it ideal for holiday meal prep.
• Comfort Food Classic: Traditional herbs and sautéed vegetables keep it familiar yet uniquely delicious.

Ingredients

• 8 cups day-old bread cubes (preferably sourdough or rustic white bread)
• 1 cup roasted chestnuts, roughly chopped
• 3/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 stalks celery, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (or vegan butter for vegan option)
• 2 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried sage)
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried rosemary)
• 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth (use low sodium for better control)
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Equipment

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

Instructions

1. Prepare the bread cubes: If your bread isn’t already stale, cut it into 1-inch cubes and spread them on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15 minutes, tossing halfway, until dry and slightly golden. Set aside to cool.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add herbs: Stir in the fresh sage, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for an additional minute to release their flavors.
4. Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, chopped chestnuts, and dried cranberries. Toss gently to distribute everything evenly.
5. Add broth: Gradually pour the vegetable broth over the mixture, stirring gently after each addition. The bread should be moist but not soggy. Adjust the broth quantity if necessary.
6. Season: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well.
7. Transfer to baking dish: Lightly grease your baking dish and pour the stuffing mixture in, spreading it out evenly.
8. Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes or until the top turns golden and crispy.
9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra depth of flavor, try toasting the chestnuts lightly in the pan before mixing them into the stuffing.”

• Make it vegan: Use vegan butter and ensure the vegetable broth is free from animal products.
• Add nuts: For crunch, consider adding toasted pecans or walnuts alongside the chestnuts.
• Fresh cranberries: If you prefer, swap dried cranberries for fresh ones, but increase the broth slightly to compensate for moisture.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free bread cubes to make this stuffing safe for gluten-sensitive guests.
• Herb variations: Experiment with rosemary and thyme ratios or add a pinch of marjoram for a unique herbaceous touch.
• Make ahead: Prepare the stuffing up to step 7 and refrigerate overnight. Bake before serving as directed.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian chestnut cranberry stuffing pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a festive holiday meal, serve it alongside roasted root vegetables or glazed carrots.

It’s equally delicious with mashed potatoes or a creamy butternut squash soup for a cozy dinner.

If you want to keep the meal lighter, try pairing the stuffing with a crisp green salad or sautéed kale with garlic. For those looking to add protein, a side of grilled tempeh or a lentil loaf complements the flavors wonderfully.

For more delicious side ideas, check out our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or add a tangy twist with the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe.

Conclusion

This Chestnut Cranberry Stuffing Recipe Vegetarian is a celebration of autumn flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. It’s a versatile dish that’s easy to customize, making it perfect for any occasion — from holiday dinners to casual family meals.

The combination of chestnuts and cranberries brings a unique balance of earthy richness and fruity brightness, while the classic herbs add warmth and depth. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, this stuffing delivers comforting satisfaction in every bite.

Don’t forget, stuffing isn’t just a side dish — it’s the heart of many festive tables. For more hearty vegetarian recipes that nourish and satisfy, try our Pesto Recipe Marcella Hazan or indulge your sweet tooth afterward with the creamy Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe.

Happy cooking and bon appétit!

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