Roasted Duck with Apple Stuffing Recipe

Roasted Duck with Apple Stuffing Recipe

The Christmas Day centerpiece

By Sarah Mitchell June 14, 2026

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 2h 50m
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Hard
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Whole duck stuffed with apples, marjoram, and onions, roasted until crackling crisp. Germany's Christmas dinner.

About This Recipe

"Roasted Duck with Apple Stuffing" is a Dinner recipe that brings whole duck (5-6 lb), tart apples, quartered, onion, quartered and fresh marjoram together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Hard and ready in about 185 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 6 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The German inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

  • 1 whole duck (5-6 lb)
  • 3 tart apples, quartered
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 1 bunch fresh marjoram

Instructions

  1. 1

    Season duck inside and out. Stuff with apples and onion.

  2. 2

    Roast breast-down at 160°C for 1 hour, then flip.

  3. 3

    Continue 1.5 hours. Increase to 220°C for last 20 minutes. Rest 15 minutes.

Expert Tips

For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Whole duck (5-6 lb) is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. Stovetop work especially well for this preparation. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.

What To Serve With This

"Roasted Duck with Apple Stuffing" is a versatile Dinner dish that pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, crusty bread or dinner rolls and classic German sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.

Storage & Reheating

Roasted Duck with Apple Stuffing keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to preserve texture. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the dish thickens in the fridge. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

441
Calories
28g
Protein
18g
Fat
36g
Carbs
4g
Fiber
6g
Sugar
696mg
Sodium

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Roasted Duck with Apple Stuffing?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep and 170 minutes of cooking, for a total of roughly 185 minutes. It serves 6 and is rated Hard.

How do I store leftover Roasted Duck with Apple Stuffing?

Store leftover Roasted Duck with Apple Stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.

Can I make Roasted Duck with Apple Stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Roasted Duck with Apple Stuffing in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to preserve the best texture and flavor.

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