Gluten-free Apple-Cranberry Turkey Stuffing

Research suggests that an apple a day really can help keep the doctor away. Packed with disease-fighting antioxidants, apples have a wide range of health benefits. In studies, they’ve been shown to help lower cholesterol and markers of inflammation in artery walls, and may help regulate blood sugar. This makes them an excellent choice for heart-healthy stuffing recipes. The apple cranberry combination also delivers apple cranberry heart benefits thanks to their vitamins and natural antioxidants.

This delicious, gluten-free stuffing for heart health will give your family a lot to celebrate on Thanksgiving. It also works well as part of a cardiovascular diet recipe for those looking to support heart health during the holidays. For a flavor variation, add 1/2 cup of chopped dried apricots or pecans to the recipe.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

• 1 cup or more low-salt or salt-free chicken broth

• 1 loaf gluten-free bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 1/4 cup grapeseed oil or olive oil

• 2 cups chopped onion

• 1 cup chopped celery

• 2 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and chopped into 1/2 inch cubes (about 2 cups)

• 1/2 cup finely chopped Italian parsley

• 2 tablespoons fresh, chopped sage

• 2 large eggs

Directions

Soak cranberries in chicken broth for at least one hour. The cranberries add natural sweetness and are rich in antioxidants, making them a great option for cranberries for heart health and foods for heart disease prevention.

Meanwhile, bake bread cubes on a parchment-lined or nonstick baking pan for 10 minutes at 350 degrees, turning once to bake evenly. Set aside to cool. Using gluten-free bread ensures this is also suitable for low cholesterol stuffing recipes and those seeking healthy stuffing ingredients.

Sauté onion and celery in oil until soft, about 15 minutes, stirring frequently. Add apples and herbs and cook 3 more minutes until apples begin to soften. These fresh produce choices also make this dish one of the easiest anti-inflammatory recipes for the holidays.

Put mixture into a very large bowl and combine with cooled bread cubes. Whisk eggs into cranberry-chicken broth mixture, then pour over stuffing, tossing well. Add broth in 1/4 cup amounts if mixture is too dry. Bake stuffing in a 9 x 13 baking pan at 350 degrees, uncovered, until browned on top and cooked through, about 50 minutes. Cool for 10-15 minutes and serve warm.

Why This Stuffing is Good for Your Heart

This recipe blends flavor with heart-healthy stuffing recipes that work for nearly any table. Apples supply fiber and antioxidants, helping support healthy cholesterol levels. Cranberries add vitamins and plant compounds linked to improved arterial health. 

Using gluten-free bread makes it friendly for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance without sacrificing taste. The mix of apples, cranberries, and herbs also delivers anti-inflammatory benefits that may help reduce cardiovascular risk. 

Olive or grapeseed oil offers healthy fats that support artery health. As part of a cardiovascular diet recipe, this stuffing can be a satisfying, festive choice that fits into a plan for foods for heart disease prevention while keeping flavor front and center.

FAQs

Can celiacs eat turkey stuffed with stuffing?

Yes, if the stuffing is made with certified gluten-free bread and ingredients.

Can celiacs eat cranberry sauce?

Most fresh and canned cranberry sauces are gluten-free, but always check labels.

Can you make stuffing with gluten free breadcrumbs?

Yes, gluten-free breadcrumbs work well as a substitute for cubed bread.

Is canned cranberry gluten-free?

Most canned cranberry products are gluten-free, but verify by reading the ingredient list.