Grand Marnier Apricot Stuffing *

This Grand Marnier Apricot Stuffing elevates the traditional holiday side dish with a sophisticated twist. The combination of sweet, plump dried apricots and tart slivered apples balances the savory richness of turkey sausage and herb stuffing mix. A splash of Grand Marnier adds a subtle orange liqueur note that brightens the entire dish, while fresh celery and onions provide aromatic depth. The texture is moist but not soggy, with a delightful contrast between the soft bread cubes and the chewy fruit. This stuffing is perfect for stuffing a turkey cavity or baking in a separate casserole dish. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or even chicken, making it a versatile addition to your holiday table or a special Sunday dinner. The warm spices of thyme and black pepper round out the flavor profile, creating a comforting yet elegant dish that guests will remember long after the meal is over.

Cooking Method: Baking, Boiling, Microwave, Stewing

Cuisine: American

Courses: Side Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 10

Calories: 1462.4

Dietary: Gluten-free

Description

This Grand Marnier Apricot Stuffing elevates the traditional holiday side dish with a sophisticated twist. The combination of sweet, plump dried apricots and tart slivered apples balances the savory richness of turkey sausage and herb stuffing mix. A splash of Grand Marnier adds a subtle orange liqueur note that brightens the entire dish, while fresh celery and onions provide aromatic depth. The texture is moist but not soggy, with a delightful contrast between the soft bread cubes and the chewy fruit. This stuffing is perfect for stuffing a turkey cavity or baking in a separate casserole dish. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or even chicken, making it a versatile addition to your holiday table or a special Sunday dinner. The warm spices of thyme and black pepper round out the flavor profile, creating a comforting yet elegant dish that guests will remember long after the meal is over.

Ingredients

1 cup Dried apricots; diced
1 1/2 cup Grand Marnier
4 cup Chicken broth
2 cup Celery; coarsely chopped
1 Yellow Onion; chopped
1 pound Turkey sausage
1 pound Herb stuffing mix
1 cup Apple pieces; slivered
1/2 teaspoon Dried thyme

Directions

1
Place diced apricots and 1 cup of Grand Marnier in a small saucepan.
2
Heat the mixture over medium heat until it comes to a boil.
3
Remove the saucepan from heat and set aside to allow apricots to plump.
4
In a separate medium saucepan, heat chicken broth to a boil.
5
Add chopped celery and onion to the boiling broth.
6
Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
7
Meanwhile, cook the turkey sausage in the microwave according to package directions, then chop finely.
8
In a large mixing bowl, combine the herb stuffing mix, the plumped apricots with their liquid, cooked sausage, slivered apples, simmered vegetables, and the broth.
9
Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined and moistened.
10
Stir in the remaining 1/2 cup of Grand Marnier.
11
Season with dried thyme and fresh ground black pepper to taste.
12
Use immediately to stuff a turkey or transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350F (175C) for 30-40 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 10

Amount Per Serving
Calories 1462.4kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 75.5g117%
Saturated Fat 21.4g107%
Cholesterol 555.8mg186%
Sodium 2552.1mg107%
Total Carbohydrate 68.1g23%
Dietary Fiber 7.0g29%
Sugars 31.8g
Protein 108.5g217%

* 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

This recipe yields enough stuffing for a 21-24 pound turkey. If stuffing the turkey directly, ensure the stuffing reaches an internal temperature of 165F (74C) for food safety.

For best flavor, let the apricots soak in the Grand Marnier for at least 10 minutes before mixing if time allows.

You can substitute the turkey sausage with chicken sausage or even pork sausage for a richer flavor profile.

If you prefer a drier stuffing, reduce the chicken broth by 1/2 cup. Adjust based on the specific stuffing mix brand, as absorption rates vary.

Leftover stuffing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: stuffing, grand marnier, apricot, turkey sausage, holiday, thanksgiving, christmas, side dish, fruit stuffing, orange liqueur, herb mix, apple, celery, onion, thyme, american cuisine, baking, comfort food, festive, main course accompaniment

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/grand-marnier-apricot-stuffing/