Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing

Stuffing is never boring when there is Turkey Bacon involved! This Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing recipe brings a delightful twist to a classic favorite. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving, family gatherings, or any special occasion where you want to elevate your meal. With its savory flavors of sage and thyme, this dish will fill your home with inviting aromas, making it a standout side dish that pairs beautifully with turkey and gravy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Fusion: The combination of Turkey Bacon with fresh herbs creates a savory depth that enhances traditional stuffing.
• Comfort Food Classic: This cornbread stuffing is a warm and comforting addition to your holiday table that everyone will love.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip up this stuffing without any hassle.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy this stuffing as a side for Thanksgiving or alongside any roasted meats throughout the year.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the cornbread in advance and assemble the stuffing the day before for an easier cooking experience on the big day!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing, gather the essential tools you’ll need. These will help ensure your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking sheets
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• 9×13 inch baking pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for frying the Turkey Bacon and sautéing vegetables, ensuring even cooking and flavor development.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients without spilling, allowing for easy mixing and preparation.
• Baking sheets: Perfect for drying out cornbread chunks evenly, which enhances texture in the final dish.

Ingredients

To create your delicious Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing, gather the following ingredients:

• cornbread (One 9×13 inch pan)
• 12 slices thick-cut Turkey Bacon (about 12 ounces)
• 2 large onions (chopped)
• 4 stalks celery (including some leaves, about 2 1/2 cups)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage (chopped)
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
• 2 & 1/2 cups turkey stock (or chicken stock, plus more)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 & 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 4 tablespoons cold butter (chopped)

How to Make Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing

Step 1: Prepare the Cornbread

• Tear the cornbread into bite-sized chunks and spread them out on 2 large baking sheets.
• Allow it to sit uncovered overnight or for several hours to dry out.

Step 2: Bake the Cornbread

• Preheat your oven to 400°F.
• Bake the two pans of cornbread for about 10 minutes until slightly dried out. If necessary, flip them halfway through.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Bacon

• Chop the Turkey Bacon into 1-inch pieces.
• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Turkey Bacon until crispy but still flexible. Transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

• In the same skillet with leftover grease, add chopped onions and celery. Sauté over medium heat for about 10 minutes until soft.
• Season with kosher salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs

• Stir in fresh sage and thyme; sauté for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

• In a large bowl, combine dried cornbread with sautéed vegetables and cooked Turkey Bacon.

Step 7: Prepare Liquid Mixture

• In the skillet, add apple cider vinegar over medium heat. Scrape up brown bits until nearly evaporated.
• Melt one stick of butter in the pan; pour it over the cornbread mixture in the bowl.

Step 8: Whisk Eggs and Stock

• In a measuring cup, whisk together turkey stock and eggs along with additional salt and pepper.

Step 9: Mix Everything Together

• Slowly pour this mixture over the cornbread while gently stirring until well combined. Add more stock if necessary.

Step 10: Bake

• Grease your baking pan; pour in the stuffing mixture evenly. Top it with chopped cold butter.

Step 11: Cover & Bake

• Cover with foil sprayed with nonstick spray. Bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes until warmed through.

Step 12: Crisp Up

• Increase oven temperature to 450°F; remove foil and bake for another 20 minutes or until crispy on top.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your flavorful Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing! Serve it alongside turkey and gravy for an unforgettable meal.

How to Serve Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing

Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various main courses and side dishes. It can enhance your meal while keeping the festive spirit alive.

With Roast Turkey

• Serve alongside a perfectly roasted turkey, allowing guests to enjoy the contrast of flavors and textures.

As a Side for Gravy

• Spoon generous amounts of gravy over the stuffing. The rich sauce seeps into the cornbread, making every bite even more delicious.

In a Casserole Dish

• Present the stuffing in a decorative casserole dish, adding a touch of elegance to your table setting.

Accompanied by Cranberry Sauce

• Pair with homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce for a sweet-tart balance that complements the savory stuffing.

How to Perfect Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing

To ensure your Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use stale cornbread: Allowing your cornbread to dry out overnight helps it absorb moisture better without becoming mushy.

• Don’t overcook the Turkey Bacon: Cook until crispy but not too hard, as it will continue to cook in the oven and become overly crunchy.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to modify salt and pepper levels according to your preferences.

• Add extra broth if needed: If the mixture seems dry after combining ingredients, add additional turkey stock gradually until desired moisture is achieved.

• Cover while baking initially: Use foil for the first part of baking to keep moisture in. Remove it later for a crispy top.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing

Complement your Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing with these delightful side dishes that enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes provide a classic comfort food experience.

2. Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds add crunch and freshness to your plate.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized sprouts offer a slightly sweet flavor that balances savory dishes perfectly.

4. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots bring color and sweetness, creating an appealing contrast with the stuffing.

5. Cauliflower Gratin: A cheesy cauliflower bake provides richness while pairing wonderfully with stuffing flavors.

6. Buttery Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are perfect for scooping up stuffing and gravy, enhancing every bite of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Stuffing can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing turns out perfectly every time.

• Skipping the cornbread drying step: Failing to dry out the cornbread can lead to soggy stuffing. Leave it uncovered overnight or bake it until it’s slightly crispy.
• Overcooking the Turkey Bacon: Cooking Turkey Bacon until it’s too crispy can result in a tough texture after baking. Aim for flexibility, not crunchiness.
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can make your stuffing bland. Taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout the process for balanced flavor.
• Ignoring herb freshness: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can dull the flavor. Always opt for fresh sage and thyme for vibrant aromas.
• Rushing the assembly: Mixing ingredients too quickly can break down the cornbread. Gently fold your mixture to keep some texture intact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the stuffing to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Make sure to label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of turkey stock, cover, and heat over low until warmed, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing.

Can I make Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

What can I substitute if I don’t have turkey stock?

You can use chicken stock as a substitute without losing flavor.

How do I know when the stuffing is done baking?

The stuffing is done when it’s heated through and has a crispy top layer. A golden-brown color indicates readiness.

Can I customize my Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or swap out herbs according to your taste preferences.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing is a delicious side dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various herbs and additional ingredients based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!