Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare Minute Rice according to the package directions; reserve

Step 2: Heat the butter in a large skillet set over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, carrot, dried apples, sage, thyme, salt and pepper. Cook, stirring often, for 10 minutes or until softened and fragrant. Remove from heat

Step 3: Toss the reserved rice with the warm vegetable mixture, chopped apple and 1 cup (250 mL) Cheddar cheese until combined. Whisk the broth with the apple juice and eggs. Pour the apple juice mixture over the rice mixture and stir to combine. Transfer to a greased 9 x 13-inch (3 L) baking dish

Step 4: Bake, covered, for 30 minutes or until set. Toss the remaining Cheddar cheese with pecans (if applicable) and parsley; sprinkle over the stuffing. Let it stand covered for 10 minutes before serving