stuffing with celery recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best stuffing with celery recipe

I have been making stuffing with celery for as long as I can remember, and it is one of those recipes that just feels like home. The celery adds a fresh, crisp texture that balances out the soft bread and savory herbs. My family looks forward to this dish every holiday season, and even my kids, who are picky eaters, ask for seconds.

It is simple to put together and uses ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, but I also make it for Sunday roasts and family get-togethers. The celery brings a subtle, earthy flavor that pairs well with turkey, chicken, or even pork.

It is not overpowering, just a nice, clean taste that makes the stuffing feel lighter. Plus, celery is low in calories and high in fiber, so you can enjoy a hearty serving without feeling guilty. When I make this stuffing, I always use day-old bread because it soaks up the broth without getting mushy.

The key is to sauté the celery and onions until they are soft but still have a little bite. That way, they add texture to every spoonful. I also like to add a mix of sage, thyme, and a pinch of black pepper for warmth.

It is a straightforward recipe that never fails. My family loves how the celery stays a little crunchy even after baking, and the aroma fills the whole house. It is one of those dishes that brings everyone to the table.

Whether you are hosting a big holiday meal or just want a cozy side dish, this stuffing with celery is a winner. It is easy to double the recipe if you are feeding a crowd, and it always disappears fast.

Classic Stuffing with Celery

4.5 from 1379 votes

This stuffing with celery is a traditional side dish that is perfect for holidays or any family dinner. The celery adds a fresh crunch and mild flavor that complements the savory herbs and soft bread.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Stuffing

1 loaf day-old white bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 8 cups)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large yellow onion, diced
3 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried sage
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1 large egg, lightly beaten

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast for 10 minutes, until they are dry and lightly golden.
3This helps them hold their shape when mixed with the broth.
4In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
5Add the diced onion and celery and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent.
6Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
7In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, the cooked vegetables, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
8Toss everything together until the herbs are evenly distributed.
9In a small bowl, whisk together the broth and the beaten egg.
10Pour this mixture over the bread mixture and stir gently until all the bread is moistened.
11The stuffing should be moist but not soggy.
12Transfer the stuffing to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
13Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
14Then remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Large mixing bowl
9×13-inch baking dish
Aluminum foil
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 520mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 7g

📝Notes

For a richer flavor, use turkey or chicken broth. You can also add cooked sausage or dried cranberries for a twist. If the stuffing seems dry before baking, add a little more broth.

Watch Video Of How Classic Stuffing with Celery Works

This stuffing with celery is a reliable side dish that always gets compliments. To store leftovers, let the stuffing cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

For reheating, place it in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 2 minutes.

This recipe works well for family gatherings because it is easy to scale up and pairs with almost any main dish. I like to serve it alongside roasted turkey, chicken, or even a hearty roast beef.

For a holiday meal, I sometimes top it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of gravy. It is a comforting, familiar dish that brings everyone together around the table.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Stuffing with Celery

1. Can I make this stuffing with celery ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing up to a day in advance. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you are ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed. You may need to add 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time if it is cold from the fridge.

2. What kind of bread works best for this recipe?

Day-old white bread or a French loaf works best because it is dry and absorbs the broth without becoming mushy. You can also use whole wheat bread or a mix of both for a heartier texture. Avoid using fresh, soft bread as it can turn gummy.

3. Can I add other vegetables to the stuffing?

Absolutely. You can add diced carrots, mushrooms, or even chopped apples for extra flavor and texture. Just sauté them along with the onion and celery until they are tender. Keep the total amount of vegetables similar to the recipe to maintain the right balance.

4. How do I keep the stuffing from getting too dry?

Make sure the bread cubes are well moistened with the broth mixture before baking. If the stuffing looks dry after mixing, add a few more tablespoons of broth. Covering the dish with foil for the first part of baking traps steam and keeps it moist. Remove the foil at the end to crisp the top.

5. Can I make this stuffing gluten free?

Yes, simply use gluten free bread cubes in place of regular bread. Check that your broth and any other ingredients are certified gluten free. The rest of the recipe stays the same, and it will still be delicious.

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