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Savory Cheesy Bacon Ranch Stuffing Bake

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A bold, cheesy, bacon-packed stuffing bake with ranch seasoning, sharp cheddar, and mozzarella. This easy, crowd-pleasing side is perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or any cozy gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups crusty bread, cubed (day-old sourdough or French bread recommended)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half)
  • 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or sweet corn
  • Optional: 1/4 cup fresh chopped chives or green onions (for garnish)
  • Optional: Substitute turkey bacon or omit for vegetarian
  • Optional: Use gluten-free bread for gluten-free version
  • Optional: Use plant-based butter, cheese, and unsweetened almond milk for dairy-free version

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). If bread isn’t cubed and stale, cut into 1-inch pieces and toast on a baking sheet for 8-10 minutes until just crunchy.
  2. Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery, sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic for the last 30 seconds. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, ranch seasoning, thyme, parsley, pepper, and salt until smooth and well combined.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, toss toasted bread cubes with sautéed veggies, chopped bacon, cheddar, and mozzarella. Add peas or corn if using. Pour melted butter over and toss until bread is coated and cheese is distributed.
  6. Pour ranch custard slowly over bread mixture, gently folding with a spatula until all cubes are moistened. Do not overmix.
  7. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread stuffing mixture evenly. Dot extra cheese shreds on top if desired.
  8. Cover dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
  9. Remove foil and bake another 15-20 minutes until top is golden brown and bubbly.
  10. Let bake cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives or green onions if desired.

Notes

Use day-old bread for best texture. Toast bread cubes for crispy edges. Thick-cut bacon adds crunch. Whisk ranch into eggs and milk for even flavor. For gluten-free or dairy-free, use appropriate substitutions. Let bake rest before serving for neat slices. Assemble ahead and refrigerate overnight if needed; add 5-10 minutes to bake time.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffing, Thanksgiving, cheesy, bacon, ranch, side dish, easy, potluck, holiday, comfort food

Find it online: https://fuzzyforker.com/savory-cheesy-bacon-ranch-stuffing-bake-recipe-easy-thanksgiving-side/