Gluten Free Stuffing
Gluten Free Stuffing Recipe: A Classic for Holidays and Beyond
When it comes to holiday meals, nothing beats the comfort and tradition of Gluten Free Stuffing. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a special family dinner, this savory side dish is a must-have. For those who need to follow a gluten-free diet, the challenge is finding a stuffing that’s not only safe but delicious. That’s where this homemade Gluten-Free Stuffing recipe comes in—it’s an easy-to-make, flavorful, and dairy-free version that your family will love.
Forget the boxed stuffing mixes! After trying several brands of gluten-free stuffing mix over the years, I’ve found that nothing compares to a homemade Gluten Free Stuffing. Whether it’s the texture or the depth of flavor, store-bought just doesn’t measure up. Luckily, making your own Gluten Free Stuffing is incredibly simple, and with the right ingredients, it’ll be better than anything from a box.
Why Choose Homemade Gluten Free Stuffing?
Homemade Gluten-Free Stuffing gives you control over every ingredient. You won’t have to worry about hidden gluten or unnecessary preservatives. Plus, you can adjust the flavors to suit your preferences—whether you like your stuffing loaded with herbs, prefer a hint of sweetness from dried fruit, or enjoy the savory addition of sausage.
This Gluten-Free Stuffing recipe also takes the guesswork out of finding gluten-free products. By using gluten-free bread and ensuring your chicken broth is certified gluten-free, you’re guaranteed a safe and tasty dish. Plus, it’s naturally dairy-free, making it an excellent option for those with additional dietary restrictions.
Choosing the Best Gluten-Free Bread for Stuffing
One of the key components of any good stuffing is, of course, the bread. In this recipe, I use Schär gluten-free bread, which is also dairy-free, making it ideal for both gluten and dairy-sensitive diners. Schär is a reliable brand that I often find at Walmart, and it holds up beautifully in this Gluten-Free Stuffing recipe.
You can, however, use your favorite brand of gluten-free bread. The key is to ensure that your loaf weighs about 14 ounces to maintain the correct bread-to-liquid ratio. If you prefer homemade bread, I also have recipes for both oven-baked gluten-free bread and a gluten-free bread machine recipe. If using homemade bread, bake it at least a day in advance and let it dry out overnight. Dry bread is essential for achieving that perfect stuffing texture.
How to Make Gluten Free Stuffing from Scratch
Making your own Gluten Free Stuffing is easier than you might think. Here’s how to create this flavorful dish step by step:
Ingredients for Gluten-Free Stuffing
- 1 (14-ounce) loaf gluten-free sandwich bread (I recommend Schär Artisan White Bread)
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup diced celery
- ½ teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 cups gluten-free chicken broth (you can make your own with Orrington Farms Chicken Flavored Broth Base, which is gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon thyme
- 1 tablespoon sage
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
Instructions for Gluten Free Stuffing
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a 2.5-quart casserole dish with gluten-free cooking spray.
- Prepare the Bread: Cut the gluten-free bread into medium-sized cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl. (Gluten-free bread can be more fragile than regular bread, so be gentle when cutting.)
- Saute Vegetables: In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced celery and minced garlic, and sauté until softened, about 6-8 minutes.
- Mix the Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine the salt, onion powder, thyme, sage, and rosemary. Stir the spices together so they are well mixed.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the seasoning blend and whisked eggs over the bread cubes. Stir to coat the bread evenly. Then, pour the gluten-free chicken broth over the bread mixture, stirring gently until the bread is evenly moistened.
- Add Sauteed Vegetables: Once the celery and garlic are softened, add them to the bread mixture. Stir everything together carefully, ensuring the vegetables are evenly distributed.
- Bake the Stuffing: Pour the stuffing mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Bake for 40-50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. For best results, bake on the middle rack. (Keep an eye on the stuffing—ovens vary, and you don’t want it to overcook.)
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Gluten-Free Stuffing pairs wonderfully with turkey, gravy, and your favorite holiday sides.
Pro Tips for the Best Gluten Free Stuffing
- No Need to Toast the Bread: Unlike traditional bread, gluten-free bread is already drier, so there’s no need to toast it before making the stuffing.
- Check Your Broth: Be sure to use gluten-free chicken broth. Many brands contain gluten, but I like using Orrington Farms Chicken Flavored Broth Base because it’s easy to find and gluten-free.
- Add Your Favorite Mix-Ins: Want to personalize your stuffing? Feel free to add mix-ins like cooked sausage, chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or even sautéed mushrooms.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
Can I Make Gluten Free Stuffing Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare your Gluten-Free Stuffing ahead of time, making holiday meal prep a breeze. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover the unbaked stuffing with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, bake it as directed.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store your Gluten Free Stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Freezing Gluten-Free Stuffing
Leftovers can also be frozen for longer storage. Once the stuffing is completely cooled, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep in the freezer for several months. To reheat, defrost the stuffing overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave until warm.
Gluten-Free Stuffing for Special Occasions
Gluten-Free Stuffing is the ultimate side dish for a holiday meal. It complements classics like turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce perfectly. I always make a large batch because it’s one of the most requested dishes during Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Pair this Gluten-Free Stuffing with a gluten-free sweet potato casserole, green beans, and gluten-free gravy, and you’ll have a holiday spread that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts: The Best Gluten-Free Stuffing
This homemade Gluten-Free Stuffing recipe is truly a game-changer. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and customizable to suit any meal. Once you try this recipe, you won’t ever go back to store-bought gluten-free stuffing mixes. Plus, it’s a hit with everyone, even those who don’t have to eat gluten-free.
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s just as good (if not better!) than traditional stuffing, look no further. This Gluten Free Stuffing will quickly become a favorite in your household, just like it has in mine.
So, why wait? Start prepping your Gluten-Free Stuffing today, and enjoy the best gluten-free holiday meal you’ve ever had!