While the main dish might be the centerpiece of a holiday table, we all know that the sides are what make the meal something special. Because regardless of whether or not people are fond of turkey, nearly everyone loves those must-have classic side dishes like mashed potatoes and gravy, green bean casserole, and – of course – dressing (AKA stuffing). But just because a dish is traditional doesn’t mean you can’t put your own spin on things… Especially if you are sticking to a particular diet. Looking for a unique Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Stuffing recipe? Skip the bread and go with rice!
Gluten Free Wild Rice Stuffing
This decadent dressing has all the appeal of classic stuffing, yet is made with long grain or wild rice. Wild rice is fun to use because it offers a nuttier flavor than white rice, and a dark rich color. When cooked, combined with veggies and bold aromatics, the rice becomes wonderfully tender and savory. The texture is perfectly firm with that scoop-ability of traditional stuffing that we all love. Prepare our GF-friendly rice dressing recipe as a vegetarian and vegan dish, or add sauteed sausage for a meatier version. Then enjoy as-is, bake it in the oven for a crunchy top, or stuff your turkey for the classic Thanksgiving experience!
Ingredients You Need
Thai wild rice – or long-grain wild riceButter – or plant-based butterOnion – choppedBell pepper – choppedCelery – choppedCarrot – choppedMushrooms – dicedFresh chopped sage – or dried sageFresh thyme leaves – or dried thymeVegetable broth – or veg bullion + waterParsley – choppedSalt and pepper
How to Make Wild Rice Dressing
First, chop and prep all the fresh produce and herbs. Next, set a large 6 to 8 quart saucepot over medium heat. Add the butter. Once melted, stir in the onions, bell pepper, celery, carrots, and mushrooms. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper, then stir and sauté until all the vegetables are softened. Now add in the chopped sage and thyme. Sauté for one more minute. Add the rice and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well. Then cover and simmer according to the rice package instructions, usually 15 to 20 minutes. Once the rice has absorbed all the broth and there are vent holes on the top of the rice, turn off the heat. Allow the rice to sit covered and steam another 5-10 minutes. Then fluff with a fork and stir in the parsley. Taste, then salt and pepper as needed. Serve the dressing warm with your favorite Thanksgiving and Christmas main and side dishes. It’s perfect to enjoy alongside holiday staples such as roasted or smoked turkey, with a boat of homemade gravy to drizzle (or pour on, whatever your preference!).
Recipe Tips and Variations
This side dish recipe is gluten-free and vegan if using plant-based butter. However, you can add 1 pound of pork sausage to give it a deeper meaty flavor if desired. Brown the sausage first in the pot before adding the chopped veggies to saute.If using vegetable base instead of broth, I like to use 4 “heaping teaspoons” to give the stuffing a little extra oomph!This wild rice dressing can be served as-is, stuffed in a turkey and roasted, or placed in a casserole dish and baked for a crispy top.
Storage Suggestions
When the stuffing cools completely, transfer to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat by baking in a casserole dish in a 350 degree F preheated oven for 15-20 minutes.
Looking for More Delicious Holiday Side Dish Recipes?
Garlic Butter Roasted ParsnipsQuick Maple Glazed Carrots with CinnamonRoasted Brussels Sprouts Gratin Sausage Mushroom Thanksgiving StuffingHomemade Cranberry Sauce with Raspberries
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