Shiitake Butternut Stuffing

Shiitake & Butternut Squash Stuffing

A hearty, flavorful stuffing featuring savory shiitake mushrooms, sweet butternut squash, and toasted sourdough.

Ingredients

  • 1½ lbs. shiitake mushrooms, stems removed and caps quartered
  • 6 tbsp. butter, divided (plus extra for greasing the baking dish)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 3 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 tbsp. fresh sage, chopped
  • 8 shallots, thinly sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced
  • ½ cup apple cider
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 8 cups toasted sourdough bread cubes
  • Optional: turkey pan drippings for added richness

Instructions

  1. Cook the mushrooms.
    • Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Add the shiitake mushrooms and sauté until lightly browned.
    • Season with salt and pepper, then transfer the mushrooms to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Cook the vegetables.
    • In the same skillet, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons butter.
    • Add the celery, sage, shallots, garlic, and butternut squash.
    • Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Build the broth.
    • Pour in the apple cider and cook for 3 minutes.
    • Add the chicken broth and simmer until the squash is just tender, about 5 minutes.
  4. Assemble the stuffing.
    • Add the parsley and toasted sourdough cubes to the bowl with the mushrooms.
    • Pour the hot vegetable and broth mixture over the bread.
    • Gently toss until the bread is evenly moistened.
  5. Bake.
    • Butter a 9 × 13-inch baking dish and spread the stuffing evenly inside.
    • Dot the top with a little butter or drizzle with turkey pan drippings, if using.
    • Cover and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
    • Uncover and continue baking for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and lightly crisp.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect alongside:

  • Roast turkey or chicken
  • Pork loin
  • Holiday meals
  • Autumn and winter dinners

Chef's Tip: Toasting the bread before assembling the stuffing helps it absorb the flavorful broth while maintaining a light, tender texture.