This Pineapple Stuffing is a yummy mix of sweet pineapple and soft bread that makes the perfect side dish. It has a lovely flavor that everyone will enjoy at dinner!
Honestly, who wouldn’t love a little sweetness with their meal? I can never resist grabbing seconds of this tasty dish! It really brightens up any table. 😊
It’s super simple to make too! Just mix everything together and bake. It’s a hit with family and guests alike! Enjoy it warm for the best taste!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Day-old bread is a must for good texture. I love using a mix of white and cornbread for added flavor. If you don’t have old bread, lightly toast fresh bread before cubing.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds a nice sweetness. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple works well too—just drain it well! You can also experiment with other fruits like apples or cranberries for a twist.
Onion & Celery: These aromatics are essential for flavor. If you’re not a fan of onions, try using leeks or shallots instead. For celery, you could use diced bell peppers for a different texture and taste.
Broth: Chicken broth is great for richer flavor, but if you’re vegetarian or vegan, go for vegetable broth. Sometimes I like to mix in a splash of apple juice for a fruity note!
How Do I Make Sure My Stuffing Isn’t Dry?
Keeping your stuffing moist is important! The key is to ensure all the bread cubes soak up the broth mixture. Start by whisking the eggs and broth together thoroughly.
- Combine the bread with the sautéed veggies and pineapple first, and then pour the egg mixture over it.
- Gently fold everything together. If it looks too dry, don’t hesitate to add more broth, a little at a time until the mixture is damp but not soggy.
After baking, let it cool for a few minutes before serving—this helps it firm up nicely!
How to Make Pineapple Stuffing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 10 cups cubed day-old bread (white, cornbread, or a mix)
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (drained if very juicy)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (plus more if needed)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried sage)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes of preparation time, followed by 30-40 minutes of baking. Altogether, you’re looking at just under an hour for a delicious side dish that’ll impress your family and friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish (or a similar casserole dish) to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the finely chopped onion and celery. Sauté these until they are softened and translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This will create a tasty base for your stuffing!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, take the cubed bread and add in the sautéed onion and celery, fresh pineapple chunks, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly so that the ingredients are well combined.
4. Whisk the Broth and Eggs:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken or vegetable broth and the beaten eggs until well combined. This liquid will help moisten the stuffing.
5. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the broth and egg mixture over the bread mixture. Gently fold it all together, making sure every piece of bread is soaked with the liquid. If the mixture looks a bit dry, feel free to add a little more broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Transfer to the Baking Dish:
Transfer the stuffing mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This will help it cook through nicely.
7. Bake the Stuffing:
Put the dish in the oven and bake it uncovered for 30-40 minutes. You want the top to turn golden brown and the stuffing to be cooked through. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent burning!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This waiting time allows it to firm up a bit. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of color and flavor!
Enjoy your flavorful Pineapple Stuffing as a sweet and savory side dish at your next meal! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use a mix of white bread and cornbread for added flavor. Other options like whole grain or even brioche can work well too. Just make sure the bread is a bit stale for the best texture.
What Should I Do If the Stuffing Seems Too Dry?
If your stuffing appears dry before baking, simply add a little more broth and gently mix until the bread cubes are sufficiently moistened. Be careful not to overdo it; you want it damp, not soaked!
How Do I Store Leftover Pineapple Stuffing?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Make This Stuffing Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance! Just combine all ingredients and store it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven, possibly adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
