The Best Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe Ever - The Science Behind the Perfect Thanksgiving Stuffing

Thanksgiving Veal Stuffing Recipe: A Rich, Savory Twist on Tradition

Looking to shake up your Thanksgiving menu this year? This veal stuffing is a delicious departure from the classic bread-based version. It’s hearty, aromatic, and full of elegant fall flavors — think tender veal, sweet raisins, nutty chestnuts, and earthy mushrooms. Whether you serve it inside your turkey or as a side dish, this recipe will make your table stand out.

Serves: Enough for a 12-lb turkey (adjust as needed)
Make Ahead: Can be prepared 1–2 days in advance

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs ground veal

• 1 ½ lbs chopped mushrooms

• 1 celery stalk with leaves, chopped

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 2 carrots, chopped

• 1 large apple, diced

• 12 chestnuts, boiled and chopped

• 2 cups rice

• Chicken stock, enough to cook the rice

• A handful each of light and dark raisins

• ½ cup toasted pine nuts

• A handful of chopped parsley

• Olive oil and butter for sautéing

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Grated cheese (optional, for added richness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Veal Mixture

1. Heat a large skillet with a mix of olive oil and butter.

2. Sauté the onion until golden and fragrant.

3. Add the ground veal and cook until browned.

4. Stir in the celery and diced apple, and cook until softened.

5. Mix in raisins and toasted pine nuts. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Rice Base

1. In a pot, combine rice, chopped carrots, and chicken stock.

2. Cook until the rice is tender and all liquid is absorbed.

Step 3: Prepare the Chestnuts

1. Boil the chestnuts for 10 minutes.

2. Peel while warm, then chop into small pieces.

Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms

1. In a separate pan, brown the mushrooms in a bit of butter.

2. Drain any excess liquid.

Step 5: Combine It All

1. In a large bowl, mix the veal mixture with the cooked rice and carrots, chestnuts, and mushrooms.

2. Add parsley, salt, and pepper.

3. For extra depth, stir in grated cheese.

Serving Ideas

• Inside the turkey: Spoon the mixture into your turkey cavity before roasting.

• As a side dish: Spread into a buttered casserole dish and bake until lightly crisp on top.

Pro Tip: Any leftovers taste amazing reheated with turkey gravy or served alongside roasted vegetables.

Why You’ll Love It

This stuffing is a perfect balance of savory and sweet, with textures that surprise and delight in every bite. It’s a recipe that celebrates the warmth of Thanksgiving while offering something truly new for veal lovers.

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Seasonandstir.com — where every dish tells a story worth sharing.