Ingredients

• 1 loaf (about 10 to 12 ounces) day or two old French bread
• 4 ounces bacon, finely chopped
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the pan
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 ribs celery, dry ends trimmed and finely chopped
• 2 small Fuji or other crisp, juicy apple, peeled, cored and finely chopped
• 1 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme leaves (or 2 teaspoons dried)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• pinch cayenne pepper
• 1 1/2 to 2 cups low-sodium chicken stock

Serves 10 to 12