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Kid-Approved Gluten-Free Herb Stuffing (Easy Thanksgiving Side!)

gluten-free herb stuffing - featured image

A golden, tender, and herb-packed gluten-free stuffing that kids love. This easy Thanksgiving side is made with simple ingredients and a secret splash of apple cider vinegar for a subtle sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large loaf (about 16 ounces) gluten-free bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the dish
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced (about 1½ cups)
  • 3 celery stalks, finely diced (about 1 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • ½ cup dried cranberries (optional)
  • ½ cup cooked and crumbled sausage (optional)
  • ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Toast the bread cubes: Spread gluten-free bread cubes on a large baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until lightly golden and dry. Let cool slightly.
  3. Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons butter. Add diced onion and celery. Cook for 6-8 minutes until onion is translucent and celery has softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Combine the liquids: In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, beaten egg, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  5. Mix everything together: In a large mixing bowl, combine toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, and fresh herbs (parsley, sage, thyme, rosemary). Toss gently. Pour broth mixture over the top and fold gently until all bread cubes are moistened. Do not overmix.
  6. Transfer to the baking dish: Pour stuffing mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly. If adding optional ingredients (cranberries, sausage, nuts), sprinkle on top and press in gently.
  7. Bake covered: Cover dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  8. Bake uncovered: Remove foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until top is golden brown and crispy around the edges.
  9. Rest before serving: Let stuffing sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Toast the bread thoroughly to prevent sogginess. Use fresh herbs for best flavor. For make-ahead, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours; add 10 minutes to covered baking time. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil or dairy-free butter. For vegan, use vegetable broth and a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water).

Nutrition

Keywords: gluten-free stuffing, Thanksgiving stuffing, herb stuffing, kid-friendly stuffing, easy stuffing recipe, gluten-free Thanksgiving side