Readers love this wild rice stuffing recipe for two reasons: The wild rice adds a wonderful toasty flavor to traditional Thanksgiving stuffing, and it’s a good way to use the turkey’s giblets. The giblets (heart, liver, kidneys, gizzard and neck) are the secret to wild rice stuffing’s rich and savory flavor. Remove the giblets from the bird’s cavity, simmer on the stovetop until tender, then chop and add right to the stuffing.
Gone are the days of tossing the giblets in the trash. Keep them, because this wild rice stuffing will become your go-to recipe!
What is wild rice?
It’s a semi-aquatic grass that grows natively in North America’s Great Lakes region. While it mimics other types of rice in texture and appearance, wild rice isn’t a true rice. It belongs to a separate but related species called Zizania and is one of only a handful of grains native to North America. People like wild rice for its nutty flavor and for being healthier than conventional rice—it’s higher in both protein and fiber. It’s also a rich source of vitamin B, antioxidants, folate, phosphorus, niacin, magnesium and zinc.
Ingredients for Wild Rice Stuffing
- Turkey giblets: The giblets refer to the small package of organ meat stuffed inside a turkey during processing. This package usually contains the bird’s heart, liver, kidneys, gizzard and neck.
- Wild rice blend: This recipe calls for a store-bought wild rice blend, but you can create your own blend of wild rice, white rice and brown rice for the perfect flavor and texture.
- Celery: This aromatic gives the stuffing flecks of green color along with a fresh vegetal flavor.
- Onion: Use white, yellow or sweet onions to make this recipe.
- Seasoned stuffing: This recipe takes a shortcut and uses preseasoned crushed stuffing.
- Chicken broth: The broth adds moisture and rich poultry flavor. Pick up a good store-bought chicken broth or use homemade chicken broth.
Directions
Step 1: Cook the giblets
Remove the liver from giblets, if desired. (Some people prefer to omit the liver because it has a bitter flavor.) Place the giblets and water in a saucepan, then cover and simmer for 2 hours or until tender. Drain and dice giblets. Set aside.
Editor’s Tip: Don’t discard the water. You can use it to make a simple giblet gravy.
Step 2: Steam the rice
Meanwhile, prepare the wild rice blend according to package directions. If the rice looks dry, add extra broth while it cooks to keep it hydrated.
Step 3: Saute the vegetables
In a small skillet, saute the celery and onion in the butter until tender.
Step 4: Combine
Stir the onions and celery into the cooked rice, then gently stir in the stuffing mix, chicken broth and reserved giblets.
Step 5: Bake
Spoon the stuffing mixture into an ungreased 1-1/2-quart baking dish. Bake, uncovered, at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes or until heated through. Serve warm.
Editor’s Tip: Tent the stuffing loosely with foil to keep moisture in while other dishes are brought to the table.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-free wild rice stuffing: If you’re looking for a gluten-free stuffing, wild rice stuffing is a great option. You can omit the bread-based stuffing mix altogether and double the amount of rice. Or use a gluten-free stuffing mix you enjoy.
- Add dried fruit: Dried cranberries or golden raisins taste delicious in stuffing. Add up to 1/2 cup during step 4.
- Include fresh herbs: Stir in a selection of fresh herbs into the stuffing before baking or as a garnish just before serving. I recommend rosemary, basil, oregano, thyme or sage.
How to Store Wild Rice Stuffing
This wild rice stuffing recipe may be refrigerated and stored in an airtight food storage container for up to 5 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth and then warm in a 350° oven until heated through. You may also warm the stuffing in a microwave or on the stovetop, but the stuffing will lose its crisp top. Here are more tips for reheating Thanksgiving leftovers.
Can you freeze wild rice stuffing?
Yes! Wild rice stuffing is one of the Thanksgiving recipes that freeze well. Store in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To enjoy, defrost completely in the refrigerator and then reheat as directed above.
Wild Rice Stuffing Tips
Do you need to rinse or soak wild rice before cooking?
Like with other types of rice, we always recommend rinsing rice before cooking. It removes any impurities from the rice and rids it of excess starch, which can make rice gummy once cooked.
In terms of soaking, it depends. Refer to the package directions for your rice for the best results. In general, soaking rice is not necessary but will usually reduce overall cooking time.
What is the best way to cook wild rice?
The best way to cook wild rice is on your stovetop. For best results, consult your package directions for an estimated cooking time and watch your rice closely to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
For all of our best tips, check out our guide on how to cook wild rice.
Can I stuff a turkey with wild rice stuffing?
Yes. However, certain food safety steps must be followed to cook stuffing safely inside a turkey.
What should you serve with wild rice stuffing?
Aside from pairing well with a seasoned roast turkey and Thanksgiving side dishes, I serve wild rice and stuffing any time of year. Try plating it with grilled pork tenderloin or a spatchcock chicken. For sides, pair this wild rice stuffing recipe with roasted carrots or baked butternut squash.
