Silver Palate Grand Marnier Apricot Stuffing

1. 1

   Place the apricots and 1 cup of the Grand Marnier in a small saucepan. Heat to boiling. Remove from heat and set aside. (If you simply must, simmer the giblets in a small saucepan covered with water for 5 minutes. When cool, remove and finely dice, discarding the liquid.).

2. 2

   Melt 1/2 cup of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the celery and onion and saute for 10 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl.

3. 3

   In the same skillet, cook the sausage, crumbling it with a fork, until it's no longer pink. Remove from heat and add to the celery & onion mixture.

4. 4

   Add the stuffing mix, apricots with the liquid, the almonds (and the optional giblets.) Stir to combine.

5. 5

   Heat the remaining 1/2 cup butter and chicken stock just until the butter melts. Pour over the stuffing mixture and add the remaining 1/2 cup of Grand Marnier. Stir well to moisten the stuffing, adding the thyme, salt and pepper to taste.

6. 6

   Bake stuffing in a large buttered casserole at 325 degrees for 30-35 minutes.

7. 7

   If you insist, you'll have enough to stuff a 21-24 pound bird with a small extra casserole on the side.

8. 8

   Note: I usually make just 1/2 recipe. The Grand Marnier is expensive. If not in your budget, you might substitute another orange flavored liqueur (even Southern Comfort works.).

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.