The Spicy Protein That Will Instantly Upgrade Boxed Stuffing

Just because stuffing wasn't actually on the menu at the first Thanksgiving doesn't mean that it would not have been a hit. While every stuffing is unique in terms of flavor, most will share a rich, moist, and savory profile, whether made from scratch or from a box. There is no need to settle for the boring flavors of boxed stuffing, however, when there are simple ingredients that can be added to take the dish to a new level.

Just like adding chorizo and other proteins into scrambled eggs will boost breakfast, adding chorizo provides a much-needed upgrade to boxed stuffing. Pork chorizo is a great choice because of its complex flavor and iconic spiciness, which can vary based on which chorizo you pick up in the supermarket. Beef chorizo also provides a spicy and smoky flavor to the dish.

While stuffing is widely accepted as a Thanksgiving icon, there is nothing stopping you from trying this flavorful take on the dish year round. Stuffing shines as a side served with poultry; the complex mix of different flavors of the stuffing provide a contrast to the mild, savory flavors of turkey or chicken.

There are two ways to ensure the flavors of chorizo are captured by other stuffing ingredients. The first requires the chorizo to be browned in a skillet then set aside. Other ingredients are then cooked in the same skillet so that they benefit from the flavor left behind by the chorizo. Once all stuffing ingredients have been prepared as needed and combined, they are put to bake. The second approach encourages adding other ingredients into the chorizo after it has been browning in the skillet for about five minutes. 

Regardless of how you add the chorizo in, the spice and richness of the meat will pair well with the refreshing and lively herbs of a traditional stuffing dish, such as parsley, sage, and rosemary. Besides the aromatics, the chorizo will also be balanced out by aromatics, such as onions and celery, or sweeter add-ins like green apples and carrots. Once baked, a quick garnish with the herbs of your choice will make the stuffing ready to serve. One of the best things about this dish is that you can never make too much stuffing, especially when leftovers can easily be used to fill Thanksgiving-inspired egg rolls.