Introduction
Welcome to Love With Recipes! Today, we’re excited to share an authentic Amish Stuffing (Dressing) recipe that embodies the hearty, flavorful, and comforting qualities typical of traditional Amish cuisine. This savory dish is a versatile addition to any poultry feast, especially during holiday gatherings, Sunday dinners, or special family occasions. Amish stuffing stands out because of its robust flavors, wholesome ingredients, and moist, tender texture that perfectly complements roasted chicken, turkey, or other poultry. It’s a dish that has been passed down through generations, often made with simple, farm-fresh ingredients that celebrate the agricultural roots of Amish communities. Whether you’re preparing a family holiday or looking to elevate your weekly dinners, this Amish stuffing will not disappoint. At Love With Recipes, we believe in sharing recipes that bring families and friends together, and this dish is no exception. Prepare to indulge in a comforting, flavorful experience that echoes the rustic charm of Amish country.
Time
Preparing this Amish stuffing involves several stages, including initial preparation, baking, and resting time. The entire process, from start to finish, extends over approximately 4 hours, making it ideal for weekend cooking or special occasions where you can dedicate ample time to creating a hearty, flavorful dish. Here’s a breakdown of the time involved:
- Preparation: 45 minutes
- Toasting bread cubes: 15 minutes
- Chopping vegetables and chicken: 20 minutes
- Mixing ingredients and resting: 1 hour
- Baking: 2 hours
- Cooling and serving: 10 minutes
Total estimated time: approximately 4 hours
Needed Equipment
To successfully prepare this Amish stuffing, gather the following equipment. Having the right tools ensures efficiency and consistent results, especially when working with multiple ingredients and lengthy baking times.
- Oven: For baking and toasting bread cubes
- Large mixing bowls: For combining bread, vegetables, and liquids
- Cookie sheets or baking trays: For toasting bread cubes
- Food processor or sharp knife: For chopping chicken and vegetables
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise measurement of ingredients
- Medium mixing bowl: For whisking eggs and liquids
- Whisk or hand blender: To combine eggs, milk, and broth
- Greased 3-quart casserole dish: For baking the stuffing
- Aluminum foil: To tent the dish if needed during baking
- Kitchen scale (optional): For precise measurement of ingredients
- Cooling rack: For bread to cool after toasting
- Spatula or large spoon: For mixing and transferring
- Plastic wrap or airtight container: For resting or storing leftovers
- Optional: Slow cooker or warming tray: To keep the stuffing warm before serving
Tags
Amish, Traditional, Comfort Food, Holiday, Family Recipe, Hearty, Savory, Baked, Rustic, Homemade
Serving Size
This recipe yields approximately 20 generous servings, making it perfect for large family gatherings or holiday feasts. Each serving provides a hearty, satisfying portion that complements poultry beautifully.
Difficulty Level
Intermediate. This recipe involves several steps, including toasting bread, chopping vegetables and chicken, mixing liquids, and baking for an extended period. However, with careful preparation and organization, it’s accessible to home cooks with basic baking and cooking skills.
Allergen Information
| Allergen | Present in Recipe | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Eggs | Yes | |
| Milk/Dairy | Yes (evaporated milk) | |
| Wheat/Gluten | Yes (bread cubes) | |
| Celery | Yes (celery seed, fresh celery) | |
| Sage, Thyme, Turmeric | No common allergens, but herbs can cause sensitivities in some |
Note: Always verify ingredient labels if using store-bought bread or broth to check for potential allergens or additives.
Dietary Preference
This dish is naturally gluten-containing due to bread and eggs, and it contains dairy and eggs, making it unsuitable for vegan or dairy-free diets. However, it can be adapted with gluten-free bread and dairy substitutes for gluten-free or vegan versions, respectively, though such modifications may alter traditional flavors.
Course
Main Course / Side Dish
Cuisine
American / Amish
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken thighs | 2 | Bone-in or boneless, skinless preferred for easy chopping |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 cups | Fresh herbs add brightness; can substitute with dried but reduce quantity |
| Onion, finely diced | 1/2 | Yellow or sweet onion works well |
| Celery, chopped | 3/4 cup | Fresh is best for flavor |
| Carrot, shredded | 1 | Adds sweetness and color |
| Potato, peeled and diced | 1 | Yields moistness and body to the stuffing |
| Rubbed sage | 1 1/4 tsp | Use dried or fresh, adjust to taste |
| Celery seed | 1 tsp | Enhances the earthy flavor | Dry thyme | 1 tsp | Optional but recommended for authentic flavor |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Turmeric | 1/2 tsp | Gives color and subtle flavor |
| Eggs | 5 | For binding and moisture |
| Evaporated milk | 12 oz | Rich, creamy base |
| Homemade chicken broth | 2 1/2 cups | For depth of flavor; homemade preferred |
| Bread cubes | 2 1/2 loaves | Day-old or toasted for better texture |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Bread
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the bread cubes evenly on two large baking sheets, ensuring they are in a single layer for uniform toasting. Toast the bread in the oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until they develop a golden-brown hue and a slightly crispy exterior. This step is crucial because toasted bread provides a robust texture and flavor, preventing the stuffing from becoming overly soggy. Once toasted, transfer the bread cubes to a large cooling rack or a mixing bowl. Let them cool completely before proceeding to the next steps, as warm bread can cause the mixture to become mushy when combined with liquids.
Step 2: Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables
While the bread is toasting, prepare the chicken thighs. If you prefer a smoother texture, bone the thighs by carefully removing the bones using a sharp boning knife or kitchen shears. Once deboned, finely chop the chicken meat using a food processor pulsed a few times or by hand with a sharp knife. The goal is to create small, uniform pieces that distribute evenly throughout the stuffing, ensuring every bite is flavorful and moist. Discard the skin to keep the dish lean and wholesome.
Next, finely dice the half onion and chop the celery into small pieces. Using a sharp knife, shred the carrot and peel and dice the potato into small cubes. These vegetables add moisture, texture, and flavor, contributing to the hearty nature of the dish. Place all chopped vegetables and shredded chicken into the mixing bowl with the toasted bread cubes.
To season, add the rubbed sage, celery seed, dried thyme, black pepper, and turmeric. These herbs and spices are essential for achieving the authentic Amish flavor profile. Toss the mixture gently to distribute the herbs evenly throughout, ensuring each component is coated with the seasonings.
Step 3: Preparing the Liquid Mixture
In a medium bowl, crack the five eggs and beat them thoroughly using a whisk or a fork. Eggs serve as binding agents that hold the stuffing together during baking, ensuring a cohesive texture. Add the evaporated milk and homemade chicken broth to the beaten eggs, whisking until well combined. The combination of eggs, milk, and broth creates a rich, moist base that infuses flavor and ensures the stuffing remains tender and succulent after baking.
Pour this liquid mixture gradually over the bread and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring that all bread cubes are soaked evenly with the liquids. The mixture should be quite moist but not soupy. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel and allow it to rest at room temperature for about 1 hour. This resting period allows the bread to absorb the flavors and liquids, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful stuffing.
Step 4: Assembling and Baking
Once the mixture has rested and absorbed the liquids, preheat your oven again to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your casserole dish by greasing it with butter or non-stick spray. Transfer the entire mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning and bake for approximately 2 hours. During baking, the stuffing should puff up slightly, develop a golden-brown crust on top, and become hot and bubbly in the center.
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick or small knife into the center of the dish; it should come out clean, indicating that the stuffing is fully cooked and the center is set. If desired, remove the foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up further. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute and makes slicing easier.
Preparation Tips
- Use day-old bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs liquids better and yields a more cohesive stuffing.
- Adjust herbs to taste: For a more aromatic flavor, add additional herbs like rosemary or parsley.
- For a gluten-free version: substitute the bread with gluten-free bread or cornbread crumbles, and ensure the broth is gluten-free.
- Adding dried fruits or nuts: For added texture and sweetness, consider mixing in dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped pecans.
- Make ahead: Prepare the mixture a day in advance and refrigerate overnight, allowing flavors to meld even further.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 306.6 kcal |
| Fat | 11.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 89.8 mg |
| Sodium | 465.1 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 33.7 g |
| Fiber | 2.1 g |
| Sugar | 3.3 g |
| Protein | 16.1 g |
Tips and Tricks
- Ensure bread is toasted: Toasting bread enhances flavor and prevents sogginess.
- Chop chicken finely: Fine chopping ensures the chicken distributes evenly, creating a uniform texture.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and herbs elevate the dish’s brightness and flavor.
- Rest after baking: Allow the dish to rest after baking to help it set and improve slicing.
- Customize herbs and spices: Adjust seasonings to suit your taste, adding more sage or thyme for a more traditional flavor.
Add-ons
- Dried fruits: Chopped dried cranberries, apricots, or raisins provide a sweet contrast.
- Chopped nuts: Pecans, walnuts, or almonds add crunch and richness.
- Cheese: Sprinkle with shredded cheese such as cheddar or Parmesan before baking for a cheesy twist.
- Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or cooked corn for more variety.
Side Dishes
- Roasted vegetables: Carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts complement the stuffing.
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair well with the savory stuffing.
- Fresh salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Gravy or cranberry sauce: Traditional accompaniments that enhance the flavor profile.
Improvements
- Vegetarian adaptation: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread and verify broth ingredients to accommodate dietary needs.
- Enhanced flavor: Incorporate sautéed onions, garlic, or additional herbs to intensify taste.
- Texture variations: Mix in cooked sausage or bacon bits for added richness.
Save and Store
Allow the cooked Amish stuffing to cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, approximately 20-30 minutes. For longer storage, freeze the stuffing in portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
FAQ
Can I prepare this stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffing a day in advance, refrigerate it covered, and bake it when ready. Just add an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time if refrigerated.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely. Substitute the bread with vegan bread, replace eggs with flaxseed or chia seed egg replacer, and use plant-based milk and vegetable broth. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will differ slightly from the traditional Amish version.
Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Yes, leftovers freeze well. Ensure the stuffing is cooled completely, then package in airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
You can use dried herbs in a pinch, reducing the quantity by half since dried herbs are more concentrated. Fresh herbs will impart a more vibrant flavor, so fresh is preferred when available.
Conclusion
This Amish stuffing (dressing) is a quintessential comfort food that embodies rustic simplicity and rich flavors. Its moist, tender texture, complemented by the aromatic herbs and wholesome vegetables, makes it an ideal side for poultry and a memorable centerpiece for holiday tables. The combination of toasted bread, seasoned chicken, and a luscious custard-like mixture results in a dish that’s both satisfying and nostalgic. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a hearty, homemade meal, this Amish stuffing will not only impress your guests but also evoke the warmth of family traditions. Remember, the key to a perfect stuffing is patience—allowing it to rest and meld flavors enhances the overall experience. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share this delightful recipe with loved ones, spreading comfort and joy through good food, as only Amish-inspired dishes can do.
References
While specific sources for this traditional Amish stuffing are rooted in regional culinary history, similar recipes can be found in classic Amish cookbooks such as “The Amish Cook’s Cookbook” by Phyllis Pellman Good and “The Amish & Mennonite Cookbook” by Phyllis Pellman Good. These texts highlight the importance of simple ingredients and hearty flavors that define Amish cuisine.