Gluten-Free Apple Butternut Squash Stuffing

This Gluten-Free Apple Butternut Squash Stuffing, is a festive dish that features a moist interior and a crispy, flavorful topping. With a delicious combination of apples, butternut squash, homemade gluten-free seasoned croutons, aromatic spices, fresh herbs, rich stock, and a touch of butter, this stuffing may just become the highlight of your holiday festivities.

Healthier Gluten-Free Apple Butternut Squash Stuffing

There are countless variations of stuffing, but I aimed to create a healthier, gluten-free version. By incorporating butternut squash and apples, I added both flavor and excellent texture to the stuffing.

You’ll notice that I haven’t included eggs in this apple butternut squash stuffing. For an egg-free option, be sure to use egg-free gluten-free bread in this recipe.

Fresh Homemade Gluten-Free Stuffing Croutons

I’ve tried store-bought gluten-free stuffing croutons, and I can honestly say the texture and flavor left much to be desired. Since making fresh homemade croutons is simple, why not start from scratch for a more delicious and satisfying result?

Start with a 12 ounce sliced gluten-free bread. I used Udi’s gluten-free white bread. For the next step, slice the bread into small cubes or use the pulse function in the food processor and process until you reach small pieces. 

Make Crispy Homemade Gluten-Free Stuffing Croutons

Spread the bread cubes evenly on a large rimmed baking sheet and sprinkle them with your favorite seasoning. Bake at 375°F for about 25 minutes, or until the bread is dry and crispy. This step ensures the bread holds up during baking and adds a delightful crispness to the stuffing.

If you choose to use store-bought gluten-free stuffing croutons, you’ll need about six cups. However, you truly can’t beat the flavor and texture of the homemade version!

Prepare the Butternut Squash

Technically, butternut squash is a winter squash that grows on a vine and is considered a fruit. It is long and oval with a bell-bottom, yellow-orange colour, and has a hard outer skin covering the inner orange flesh and seeds. 

Soften the Skin of Butternut Squash

The hard outer skin of the butternut squash can be tricky to peel. To make it easier, slice off both ends and microwave the squash for about 4–5 minutes. Once it cools, you can easily peel off the skin.

Next, slice the squash into rounds and remove the seeds. Fortunately, butternut squash has very few seeds, making this an easy step. You can then cut the squash into cubes; they don’t have to be perfect!

Alternatively, you can save time by purchasing pre-cut squash. Just keep in mind that the cubes are often larger than desired, so you’ll need to cut them down to size. Aim for about six cups of sliced squash.

Adding Flavor with Squash, Apples, and Spices

One of the most delicious aspects of this gluten-free stuffing recipe is the  combination of squash, apples, and spices. The natural sweetness of the butternut squash pairs beautifully with the tartness of the apples, livening up boring stuffing.

Incorporating aromatic spices—such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and sage—elevates the dish, making it the standout feature of your stuffing. This perfect blend not only enhances the flavor but also adds depth and warmth, ensuring that this stuffing is a cut above the rest.

A Crowd-Pleasing Holiday Side Dish

I’ve discovered that even those who typically dislike stuffing love this apple butternut squash version. Not only is it a delicious holiday side dish, but it also comes with some health benefits, making it a perfect addition to your festive table.

Managing the Hectic Holiday Cooking Season

The holiday season can be a whirlwind of activity in the kitchen. Between preparing turkey or ham to sides like the creamy turnip and carrot mash, the acorn squash and sweet potato mash, or the roasted brussel sprouts with shallots, you know that your hands will be full.