This classic holiday centerpiece features a whole turkey generously stuffed with a rich mixture of day-old bread cubes, diced county ham, and fresh herbs. The stuffing is deeply flavored with sautéed onions, celery, sage, and thyme, creating a savory balance that complements the roasted turkey. As the bird cooks, the juices infuse the stuffing, making every bite moist and aromatic. Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, this recipe delivers traditional home-style comfort. The combination of crispy ham edges and tender vegetables provides a wonderful texture contrast. Serve with gravy and seasonal sides for a complete feast that brings the family together.
Turkey With County Ham Stuffing
Description
This classic holiday centerpiece features a whole turkey generously stuffed with a rich mixture of day-old bread cubes, diced county ham, and fresh herbs. The stuffing is deeply flavored with saut&# 195;©ed onions, celery, sage, and thyme, creating a savory balance that complements the roasted turkey. As the bird cooks, the juices infuse the stuffing, making every bite moist and aromatic. Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, this recipe delivers traditional home-style comfort. The combination of crispy ham edges and tender vegetables provides a wonderful texture contrast. Serve with gravy and seasonal sides for a complete feast that brings the family together.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (163ðC).
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Spread bread cubes in a single layer on a 13x9x2 inch baking pan.
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Bake bread cubes for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and dry.
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Transfer toasted bread cubes to a large bowl and set aside.
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In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
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Add cubed cooked ham and cook for 5 to 10 minutes until edges are crisp.
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Remove ham from skillet with a slotted spoon and place over the bread cubes.
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In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion, celery, rubbed sage, dried thyme, and pepper until vegetables are tender.
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Add the vegetable mixture to the bowl with bread and ham; toss to combine.
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Stir in chicken broth gradually until the stuffing is moistened but not soggy.
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Stuff the cavity of the 14 lb turkey loosely with the prepared stuffing mixture.
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Skewer the neck and leg openings to secure stuffing, and tie drumsticks together.
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Place turkey on a rack in a roasting pan.
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Roast at 325 degrees Fahrenheit (163ðC) for 4 1/2 to 5 hours.
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Tent lightly with aluminum foil if the turkey browns too quickly, and baste as needed.
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Cook until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 185 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Remove stuffing from the turkey cavity before serving to ensure safe internal temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 16
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 191.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 2.3g4%
- Saturated Fat 0.4g2%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 353.5mg15%
- Total Carbohydrate 35.3g12%
- Dietary Fiber 1.9g8%
- Sugars 3.6g
- Protein 6.5g13%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For best flavor, use day-old bread that has dried out slightly. You can use a mix of white and whole wheat bread cubes.
Ensure the stuffing reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for food safety. Remove stuffing from the turkey cavity and check with a thermometer if unsure.
If the stuffing seems too dry, add more warm chicken broth. If too wet, add more toasted bread cubes.
Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving to allow juices to redistribute.
Leftover stuffing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
