Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

If you’re looking for a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering, this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is just what you need. It has a buttery flavor that wraps around your taste buds and those crispy edges make each bite feel like a hug from grandma. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving dinner or a cozy family gathering, this stuffing will quickly become a cherished part of your holiday traditions.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create something that tastes out of this world. Plus, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe doesn’t require any complicated techniques—just simple steps that anyone can follow.
• Family Favorite: The combination of herbs and buttery bread creates a flavor that appeals to both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready. Perfect for busy holiday dinners.
• Delicious Flavor: A blend of fresh herbs ensures every bite bursts with taste, reminiscent of home-cooked goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this stuffing is part of the fun! You’ll find they are all simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound bread (white bread, ciabatta, Italian, baguette, etc.)
• 1 cup butter (2 sticks)
• 1 large onion (about 3 and 1/2 cups chopped)
• 2 cups celery (1/4 inch dice)
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley (chopped; I like Italian flat-leaf)
• 1/4 cup fresh sage (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped very fine)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups high-quality chicken/turkey broth (plus 1/2 cup more if necessary)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon butter (softened, for greasing pan)

Variations

This stuffing recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can customize it to suit your preferences or use up what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
• Incorporate Fruits: Diced apples or dried cranberries can add a sweet twist.
• Change Up the Bread: Use cornbread or whole grain bread for different flavors and textures.
• Mix in Veggies: Carrots or mushrooms can enhance the veggie goodness in your stuffing.

How to Make Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Step 1: Toast the Bread

Begin by tearing or cutting your loaf of bread into bite-sized pieces, about 1-2 inches. Spread them onto a dry pan and bake at 250°F for about an hour, stirring occasionally. The goal here is to toast the bread without browning it; this makes it perfect for absorbing broth later on! Trust me, you want crispy bread for that ideal stuffing texture.

Step 2: Prep Your Veggies

While your bread is toasting away, it’s time to prep those veggies! Chop the onion until you have about 3 and 1/2 cups—this adds so much flavor. Then chop the celery into a 1/4 inch dice. We want these pieces substantial enough to add texture but not overwhelming. Celery leaves are great too; they pack a punch of flavor!

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Celery

Preheat your oven to 350°F while you melt 2 sticks of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, toss in your onions and celery. Sauté them together for about 7-10 minutes until they’re soft but not browned. This step helps release their natural sweetness while ensuring all that delicious buttery goodness infuses into our mixture!

Step 4: Chop Herbs

Now grab those lovely herbs! Chop up your parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme as instructed earlier. The fresh herbs really elevate the dish and give it that homey taste we all crave during holidays.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your toasted bread pieces with all those aromatic herbs along with the sautéed onion and celery mixture. Sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper before giving it all a good stir to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Step 6: Add Liquid Mixture

In another bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth and eggs. Slowly pour this mixture over the bread while using your hands to gently squeeze and moisten it all together—this step is vital as it ensures every piece of bread gets soaked just right without becoming soggy!

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Grease the sides and bottom of a 9×13 inch pan with softened butter before pouring in your stuffing mixture. Spread it evenly across the pan—feel free to cover tightly with foil if preparing ahead of time!

Step 8: Bake

Cover the stuffing with foil and bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue baking until it reaches your desired level of crispiness—around another 25-35 minutes should do it.

Once baked to perfection, serve warm with love! Store leftovers in the fridge or freeze them if needed—though I doubt there will be much left after everyone has had their fill! Enjoy every bite of this delightful Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Creating the perfect stuffing is all about technique and attention to detail, so here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out just right!

• Use Stale Bread: Stale bread absorbs more moisture, which helps prevent your stuffing from becoming mushy. If you can, let your bread sit out for a day before using it or follow the toasting steps in the recipe.

• Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Take your time with the onions and celery. Sautéing them slowly allows their flavors to develop fully, enhancing the overall taste of your stuffing.

• Mix Gently: When combining the bread with the broth mixture, be gentle! Overmixing can break down the bread too much and result in a dense stuffing instead of a fluffy one.

• Taste as You Go: Seasoning is key! Don’t hesitate to taste your mixture before baking. You might find you want a little more salt or herbs to suit your personal preference.

• Cover While Baking: Covering your stuffing with foil for part of the baking process helps retain moisture. Remove it towards the end to achieve that coveted crispy top!

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Serving your stuffing beautifully can elevate your Thanksgiving spread! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or sage on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Cranberry Sauce: A small bowl of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce on the side not only looks pretty but also adds a delicious contrast in flavor.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes provide texture and nutrition while complementing the flavors of the stuffing.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that soak up all those savory juices from turkey and gravy.
• Green Bean Casserole: This traditional dish offers a creamy texture and crunchy topping that pairs well with the buttery stuffing.
• Gravy: A rich turkey gravy drizzled over both stuffing and mashed potatoes creates a comforting combination that’s hard to resist.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to impressing your guests with this delightful Stuffing Recipe for Thanksgiving! Enjoy every bite and cherish the time spent with loved ones around the table. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Stuffing Recipe for Thanksgiving is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones on the big day. Here’s how to store and prepare it for later!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of baking and consume within 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the stuffing to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or tightly wrap it in plastic wrap and foil.
• It can be frozen for up to three months for best quality.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the stuffing in a greased baking dish and cover with foil.
• Bake for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through, adding a splash of broth if it appears dry.

FAQs

Here are some common questions I receive about this stuffing recipe!

Can I use different types of bread for this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

Absolutely! You can use any type of bread you like—white bread, ciabatta, or even cornbread. Just make sure it’s stale or toasted for the best texture.

How do I ensure my stuffing is moist but not soggy?

The key is to gradually add broth while gently mixing. The bread should be moist without pooling liquid at the bottom. Adjust broth as needed based on your bread’s dryness.

Can I make this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffing up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven before serving!

What herbs work best in this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

This recipe calls for parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme, which are classic choices. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like marjoram or tarragon if you’d like.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this traditional Thanksgiving stuffing! It captures all those warm, cozy flavors that remind us of family gatherings and holiday cheer. Whether you’re celebrating with loved ones or just treating yourself, this recipe will surely delight your taste buds. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!