Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing

Stuffing is never boring when there is Turkey Bacon involved! This Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that elevates any meal. Perfect for festive occasions or cozy family dinners, this stuffing combines the savory goodness of turkey bacon with the sweet richness of cornbread, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. The aromatic herbs of sage and thyme add a classic touch, ensuring your kitchen smells incredible while you cook.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of turkey bacon, sage, and thyme creates a savory stuffing that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this stuffing recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with your favorite main courses, from turkey to chicken or even vegetarian options.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve, simplifying your holiday meal planning.
• Great Texture: The crispy edges combined with soft cornbread provide a delightful contrast in every bite.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Large skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowls: Perfect for combining all ingredients without spills.
• Baking sheets: Ideal for drying out cornbread evenly.
• Large skillet: Essential for cooking the turkey bacon and sautéing vegetables evenly.

Ingredients

For this delicious Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing, gather the following ingredients:

Cornbread Base

• cornbread (One 9×13 inch pan)

Turkey Bacon & Vegetables

• 12 slices thick-cut Turkey Bacon (about 12 ounces)
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 4 stalks celery, including some leaves (about 2 1/2 cups)

Seasonings & Liquids

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

Binding Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
• 2 & 1/2 cups turkey stock or chicken stock (plus more if needed)
• 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

1. Tear the cornbread into bite-sized chunks. Spread them out on two large baking sheets. Let sit uncovered overnight or for several hours to dry out.

Step 2: Bake the Cornbread

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Bake the two pans of cornbread for about 10 minutes. Flip if necessary until dried out. Return to turned-off oven to continue drying.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Bacon

1. Chop the turkey bacon into 1-inch pieces.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the turkey bacon until crispy but still flexible. Remove from heat and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

1. Chop the onions and celery, including some leaves for extra flavor.
2. Heat the remaining turkey bacon grease in the skillet over medium heat until shimmery.
3. Add onions and celery; sauté for about 10 minutes until softened. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Add Herbs

1. Stir in fresh sage and thyme; sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

1. In a very large bowl, add dried cornbread chunks.
2. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
3. Scrape onion-celery mixture into the bowl with cornbread, then add cooked turkey bacon.

Step 7: Make Stock Mixture

1. Return empty skillet to medium heat; add apple cider vinegar, scraping brown bits off bottom until nearly evaporated.
2. Melt a stick of butter in the skillet; pour over cornbread mixture in bowl.

Step 8: Whisk Eggs with Stock

1. In a measuring cup, whisk together turkey stock and eggs; season with salt and pepper.

Step 9: Mix Everything Together

1. Slowly pour stock mixture over cornbread while gently stirring to prevent breaking apart; add more stock if needed.

Step 10: Bake Stuffing

1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan; scrape stuffing mixture into pan evenly.
2. Top with chopped cold butter.
3. Cover with foil sprayed with nonstick spray; bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes until warmed through.
4. Increase oven temperature to 450°F; remove foil and bake another 20 minutes until crispy on top.

Serve warm alongside your favorite dishes! Enjoy this comforting Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing at your next gathering or holiday feast!

How to Serve Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing

Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing is a flavorful side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Roasted Turkey

• Perfectly complements roasted turkey, enhancing the savory flavors while adding a delightful texture.

Underneath Gravy

• Spoon some rich gravy over the stuffing for extra moisture and flavor, making each bite even more delicious.

As a Casserole Base

• Use the stuffing as a base for a casserole. Top it with your favorite vegetables or proteins for a hearty meal.

Paired with Cranberry Sauce

• The tartness of cranberry sauce balances the savory stuffing perfectly, adding a festive touch to your plate.

Served Alongside Green Beans

• Crisp, sautéed green beans bring color and freshness to your dish, creating a beautiful contrast with the stuffing.

How to Perfect Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing

Getting the perfect texture and flavor for your Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing makes all the difference. Follow these tips for success.

• Use stale cornbread – Allow the cornbread to dry out overnight. This helps absorb flavors without becoming mushy.
• Cook bacon just right – Ensure the Turkey Bacon is cooked until crispy but still flexible. Overcooking can lead to dryness in the final dish.
• Don’t rush the sautéing – Take your time when sautéing onions and celery until they are soft and translucent. This builds depth of flavor.
• Adjust liquid carefully – Add stock gradually to avoid making the stuffing too wet. Aim for a moist but not soggy consistency.
• Top with butter – A few pats of cold butter on top before baking adds richness and helps achieve that crispy crust everyone loves.
• Let it rest after baking – Allow the stuffing to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set up nicely.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing

Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing pairs beautifully with many side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting contrast to the stuffing.
2. Honey-Glazed Carrots – Sweet and tender carrots add vibrant color and taste, complementing the savory profile of the stuffing.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts offer a nutty flavor that balances well against the richness of the stuffing.
4. Creamed Spinach – A luscious creamed spinach dish adds creaminess and depth that harmonizes with Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing.
5. Sweet Potato Casserole – The sweetness of this casserole contrasts beautifully with savory stuffing, creating an inviting plate.
6. Mixed Green Salad – A fresh salad with citrus dressing lightens up your meal while adding crunch and brightness to each bite.
7. Maple-Glazed Butternut Squash – Earthy squash drizzled with maple syrup enhances sweetness, providing a delightful contrast with savory elements.
8. Stuffed Acorn Squash – Filled with grains or nuts, this dish offers additional texture while pairing nicely alongside cornbread stuffing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing can be easy, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some to watch out for:

• Skipping the cornbread drying step: Not allowing the cornbread to dry out properly can lead to a soggy stuffing. Make sure to leave it uncovered overnight or toast it in the oven before using.
• Overcooking the Turkey Bacon: Cooking the Turkey Bacon too crispy can make it tough when baked. Aim for a flexible texture that still has some chew to ensure it stays tender during baking.
• Not seasoning enough: Failing to add enough salt and pepper can leave your stuffing bland. Taste as you go, and don’t hesitate to adjust seasoning levels according to your preference.
• Using too much liquid: Adding too much turkey stock can make your stuffing overly wet. Gradually add stock until the cornbread is moistened but not swimming in liquid.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Skipping fresh herbs like sage and thyme will rob your stuffing of its aromatic flavor. Always include these for a classic Thanksgiving taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil and heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use store-bought cornbread?

Yes, you can use store-bought cornbread if you’re short on time. Just ensure it’s dried out for the best results.

How do I customize my Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing?

Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers, or even nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.

What can I serve with this stuffing?

Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing pairs well with roasted turkey, chicken gravy, and mashed potatoes, making it perfect for holiday dinners.

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers should be stored properly and consumed within 3 days if refrigerated or within 2 months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or herbs. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful side dish that will impress everyone at your table!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

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Description

Turkey Bacon Cornbread Stuffing is a delightful and savory side dish that brings warmth and flavor to any gathering. With its combination of crispy turkey bacon, aromatic herbs, and the sweet richness of cornbread, this stuffing is perfect for holiday feasts or family dinners. Its inviting aroma will fill your kitchen as it bakes, making it an instant favorite among guests. Whether served alongside roasted turkey, chicken, or as a standalone dish, this comforting stuffing promises to impress with every bite.

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Ingredients

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• cornbread (One 9×13 inch pan)
• 12 slices thick-cut turkey bacon (about 12 ounces)
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 4 stalks celery, chopped
• 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 or chicken stock
• 2 large eggs

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Instructions

1. Tear cornbread into bite-sized chunks and let it dry out overnight on baking sheets.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F and bake cornbread chunks for about 10 minutes until dried.
3. Cook chopped turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy; set aside.
4. Sauté chopped onions and celery in the bacon grease until softened; add sage and thyme.
5. In a large bowl, combine dried cornbread, sautéed vegetables, and turkey bacon.
6. Melt butter with apple cider vinegar in the skillet; pour over the cornbread mixture.
7. Whisk together eggs and stock; pour over the stuffing mixture while gently stirring.
8. Transfer to a greased baking pan; top with cold butter pieces.
9. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes; then uncover and bake at 450°F for an additional 20 minutes until crispy.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 105mg