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Cauliflower Rice Stuffing

December 19, 2025

Stuffing is a holiday essential. But the traditional version can be heavy, especially if you’re trying to build a more balanced plate. This veggie-packed spin gives you the same cozy flavor profile with a fraction of the carbs and plenty of texture.

“Vegetable-based swaps can add nutrients and reduce calories without taking away the familiar flavors people love,” says Samantha Oldman, RD, with Hartford HealthCare Medical Group. “With the right herbs and aromatics, you still get that true holiday stuffing taste.”

Here’s what each ingredient adds to your holiday table.

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1. Cauliflower rice

This recipe starts with finely riced cauliflower, which stands in for bread without feeling like a compromise. It creates a light, fluffy base that mimics the texture of traditional stuffing while keeping the dish easier to digest and lower in carbs.

“Cauliflower rice keeps the texture of stuffing but cuts the carbs dramatically,” Oldman says. “It absorbs flavor really well, so you still get that savory, holiday taste.”

Fresh or frozen both work — use what’s easiest.

2. Onions, celery and carrots

These classic vegetables form the backbone of nearly every stuffing recipe for a reason. Together, they add moisture, subtle sweetness and structure, helping the dish feel familiar and comforting even with lighter ingredients.

“These vegetables build the foundation of flavor,” Oldman explains. “They add fiber, natural sweetness and that traditional stuffing aroma.”

Cooking them until they soften helps everything taste richer.

3. Garlic and poultry seasoning

This combination delivers instant holiday flavor without the need for extra butter or salt. Poultry seasoning blends several traditional herbs into one easy step, making the dish taste like stuffing right away.

“Poultry seasoning gives you the thyme, sage and savory notes people expect,” Oldman says. “You don’t need much to make a big impact.”

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4. Fresh herbs

Fresh sage, rosemary and thyme bring brightness and depth to the stuffing.

“Fresh herbs add depth without extra calories or sodium,” Oldman notes. “They make dishes taste fresh and more complex.”

A little goes a long way.

5. Diced apple

Just a handful of apple adds sweetness and contrast to the savory base.

“Apple adds moisture and a touch of natural sugar,” Oldman says. “It creates contrast without adding refined sugars.”

It also makes the stuffing feel heartier.

6. Low-sugar dried cranberries

These bring small bursts of tart sweetness throughout the dish, keeping each bite interesting. Choosing a low-sugar option helps maintain balance without overwhelming the savory flavors.

“Using low-sugar versions helps keep the recipe lighter,” Oldman explains. “Cranberries also offer antioxidants and fiber.”

They pair perfectly with holiday herbs.

7. Roasted nuts or seeds

A crunchy topping pulls everything together and adds texture that traditional bread stuffing usually provides.

“Nuts or seeds add healthy fats and texture,” Oldman says. “They’re a great way to make the dish feel indulgent without adding heaviness.”

Pepitas or pecans both work beautifully.