Delicious Chestnut Stuffing for the Perfect Thanksgiving Meal

4 stars
3.67 (14)
Delicious Chestnut Stuffing for the Perfect Thanksgiving Meal
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
40 mins
Total Time:
60mins
Recipe by Administrator
Published on October 14, 2023

Make your Thanksgiving feast even more memorable with this mouthwatering chestnut stuffing. Imparting a rich and nutty flavor to your holiday turkey, this recipe is a must-try for any American home cook. The combination of toasted bread, savory herbs, and the earthiness of roasted chestnuts creates a stuffing that is both hearty and indulgent. Prepare this simple yet sensational dish in just a few easy steps and watch your guests savor every bite.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chestnuts
  • 12 cups day-old bread, cubed
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Using a sharp knife, make an 'X' shaped incision on the flat side of each chestnut.
  3. Place the chestnuts on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven for 20 minutes.
  4. Once cool enough to handle, peel the chestnuts, remove the outer shells, and chop them into small pieces.
  5. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  6. Add the diced onion and celery to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  7. Remove the skillet from heat and set it aside.
  8. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread, chopped chestnuts, cooked onion and celery mixture, sage, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
  9. Gradually pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the bread mixture, stirring until all the ingredients are evenly moistened.
  10. Transfer the stuffing mixture into a greased baking dish.
  11. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
  13. Take the stuffing out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
  14. Serve warm as a delicious side dish for your holiday meal.

Interesting Facts

  • Chestnuts have been a staple in American holiday recipes for generations.
  • The art of chestnut stuffing can be traced back to the 16th century in Europe.
  • Chestnuts are not only delicious but also a good source of dietary fiber and Vitamin C.
  • This chestnut stuffing pairs exceptionally well with roasted turkey or chicken.