Roasted Christmas Goose with Apple and Herb Stuffing

Name: Roasted Christmas Goose with Apple and Herb Stuffing
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole goose (about 10-12 pounds); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 apples, quartered; 1 onion, quartered; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, and sage); 4 cups bread cubes (preferably stale); 2 apples, diced; 1 cup onion, chopped; 1 cup celery, chopped; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried sage; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup chicken broth

Highlighted under: Seasonal Recipe Collection

This festive roasted Christmas goose is a showstopper for any holiday gathering, featuring a delectable stuffing made with apples and fresh herbs.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-04T21:05:51.718Z

Gather your family around the table and enjoy the rich flavors of this roasted Christmas goose, perfectly complemented by a sweet apple and herb stuffing.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy and tender meat with a crispy golden skin
Sweet and savory stuffing that elevates the dish
A stunning centerpiece for your holiday feast

      

The Perfect Holiday Dish

Roasted Christmas goose is a traditional dish that brings warmth and joy to any holiday table. With its rich flavor and succulent meat, it stands out as the centerpiece of festive gatherings. Unlike turkey, goose offers a unique taste that is both savory and slightly sweet, making it an excellent choice for those looking to impress their guests. Paired with the apple and herb stuffing, this dish becomes a harmonious blend of flavors that highlight the essence of the season.

Preparing a goose may seem daunting, but with the right steps and a bit of patience, it can be a rewarding experience. The key is to ensure the goose is cooked to perfection, achieving that coveted crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy and tender. This recipe simplifies the process, guiding you through each step to ensure success, allowing you to focus on enjoying the holiday festivities with friends and family.

A Flavorful Stuffing

The apple and herb stuffing is where this recipe truly shines. Using a combination of fresh herbs, apples, and bread, the stuffing complements the rich flavor of the goose perfectly. The sweetness of the apples balances the savory elements, creating a delightful contrast that elevates each bite. Dried cranberries add a touch of tartness, making this stuffing not only flavorful but also visually appealing with its vibrant colors.

Making the stuffing from scratch allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or add nuts for an extra crunch. This stuffing can also be served as a side dish, making it versatile and a great addition to your holiday spread. Whether served alongside the goose or on its own, this stuffing is sure to become a family favorite.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your roasted Christmas goose, the options are endless. Pair it with classic sides like roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a festive cranberry sauce for a complete holiday meal. A light salad can also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the goose, adding balance to your dining experience. Don't forget to serve a fine wine or a warm spiced cider to complement the flavors of your feast.

For presentation, consider garnishing the goose with fresh herbs or sliced apples. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also hint at the delicious flavors within. Carving the goose tableside adds a touch of drama and excitement to your meal, making your holiday gathering even more memorable. Enjoy the process and take the time to savor each moment spent with loved ones around the table.

Ingredients

For the Goose

1 whole goose (about 10-12 pounds)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 apples, quartered
1 onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, and sage)

For the Stuffing

4 cups bread cubes (preferably stale)
2 apples, diced
1 cup onion, chopped
1 cup celery, chopped
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried sage
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup chicken broth

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before you start cooking!

Instructions

Prepare the Goose

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Clean the goose and pat it dry. Season the inside and outside with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with quartered apples, onion, garlic, and fresh herbs.

Make the Stuffing

In a large skillet, sauté the onions and celery until softened. In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, bread cubes, diced apples, cranberries, parsley, thyme, sage, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Mix well.

Stuff and Roast the Goose

Fill the goose cavity with the stuffing and tie the legs together with kitchen twine. Place the goose on a rack in a roasting pan and roast in the preheated oven for about 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Let it Rest

Remove the goose from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite sides.

Enjoy your delicious roasted Christmas goose!

Storing Leftovers

Storing leftovers properly is crucial to maintaining the flavor and texture of your roasted Christmas goose. Allow the goose to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate the leftovers, and they can last for up to four days. If you wish to keep them for a longer period, consider freezing portions of the meat and stuffing separately. This way, you can enjoy the flavors of the holiday well into the new year.

When reheating, aim for gentle methods to prevent the meat from drying out. A low oven temperature or a skillet with a splash of broth can help maintain moisture while warming the leftovers. Don't hesitate to get creative with your leftovers, too! Use them in soups, sandwiches, or salads for delicious meals in the days following your festive feast.

Tips for Success

To ensure your roasted Christmas goose turns out perfectly, consider a few essential tips. First, make sure to let your goose sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting. This helps it cook more evenly. Additionally, using a meat thermometer is highly recommended; this ensures that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption without overcooking.

Basting the goose periodically while it roasts can help achieve that coveted crispy skin. Use the rendered fat from the goose, which is both flavorful and effective in keeping the skin moist. Lastly, don’t rush the resting period after roasting; allowing the goose to rest for 15-20 minutes ensures the juices redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy slices when it's time to carve.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of bird?

Yes, you can substitute with duck or chicken, but cooking times may vary.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the stuffing?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffing before cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.

→ What sides go well with this dish?

Traditional sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or cranberry sauce complement this dish perfectly.