Classic Vegan Stuffing Recipe for a Delicious Holiday Meal

Stuffing is a beloved classic side dish, especially popular during holiday meals and family gatherings. But did you know that you can enjoy all the traditional flavors of stuffing without any animal products?

This classic vegan stuffing recipe combines hearty bread cubes, fresh herbs, and a medley of savory vegetables to create a dish that is both comforting and delicious. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, this stuffing is sure to impress.

It’s perfectly seasoned, easy to make, and pairs wonderfully with your favorite holiday mains or even as a standalone meal.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through every step to make the perfect vegan stuffing, along with tips on customizing it to your taste. Plus, I’ve included some handy serving suggestions and nutritional info to help you enjoy your meal with confidence.

Ready to add this timeless dish to your cooking line-up? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan stuffing recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry and fridge.

The combination of sautéed onions, celery, and fresh herbs infuses the bread cubes with irresistible flavor.

Unlike traditional stuffing recipes that rely on butter and sometimes eggs, this version uses olive oil and vegetable broth, making it completely plant-based without sacrificing richness or moisture. It’s also versatile enough to be baked inside a bird or in a separate dish, allowing you to customize according to your meal plan.

Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser — whether for vegan guests or omnivores — and can be made in advance to ease your holiday cooking stress. Pair it with other recipes like Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or Passover Zucchini Kugel Recipe for a festive feast!

Ingredients

• 10 cups of cubed day-old crusty bread (sourdough or French bread works great)
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 teaspoons dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional for extra umami)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional for crunch)
• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)

Equipment

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

Instructions

1. Prepare the bread cubes: Cut the day-old bread into approximately 1-inch cubes. Spread them out on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes until lightly crisp but not browned. Set aside to cool.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and mushrooms (if using) and cook for another 3-4 minutes until fragrant and tender.
3. Add herbs and seasonings: Mix in the dried sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the herbs, releasing their aroma.
4. Combine bread and vegetables: Transfer the toasted bread cubes to a large mixing bowl. Pour the sautéed vegetable mixture over the bread. Add the fresh parsley and nuts, if using. Toss gently to combine.
5. Moisten the stuffing: Gradually pour in the warm vegetable broth, stirring slowly until the bread is evenly moistened but not soggy. You may not need all the broth depending on the dryness of your bread.
6. Add nutritional yeast: If you want a subtle cheesy flavor, sprinkle the nutritional yeast over the mixture and stir well.
7. Transfer to baking dish: Spoon the stuffing mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover with foil to keep it moist during baking.
8. 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 crisp the top.
9. Serve warm: Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your classic vegan stuffing alongside your favorite dishes!

Tips & Variations

Use stale bread for best texture: Fresh bread can make stuffing mushy. If your bread is fresh, toast it longer to dry it out.

Make it your own: Feel free to add diced apples, dried cranberries, or cooked lentils for added flavor and nutrition.

Make ahead: Prepare the stuffing mixture a day in advance and refrigerate. When ready, bake as instructed.

For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or pecans. Alternatively, swap vegetable broth with mushroom broth for a deeper flavor.

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread cubes.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan stuffing pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a festive holiday spread, serve alongside a hearty lentil loaf or your favorite vegan roast.

You might also enjoy it with simple roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a lighter meal.

Looking to add more plant-based inspiration? Check out Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a delightful side that complements the earthy flavors of this stuffing.

And for a sweet finish, try the creamy Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe for dessert.

Conclusion

Classic vegan stuffing is the perfect blend of tradition and compassion. This recipe ensures you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or texture to enjoy a plant-based holiday side.

It’s easy to prepare, packed with fresh herbs and vegetables, and adaptable to your personal taste preferences. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or a cozy dinner, this stuffing will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.

Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes like the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe to add exciting flavors to your table. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of your vegan stuffing masterpiece!

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