Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

I love this traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe! It is easy, has the BEST buttery flavor, and the most irresistible crispy edges. Celery and onions are put together with all the herbs you love, sing it with me now: parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme. Sometimes you just want it to taste exactly like grandma’s. This recipe is it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of butter, herbs, and vegetables creates a deliciously savory stuffing that’s perfect for any holiday table.
• Crispy Edges: Baking it allows those edges to become perfectly crispy while keeping the center moist.
• Versatile Side Dish: This stuffing pairs well with chicken or turkey and can also be enjoyed as a standalone dish.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delightful stuffing.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and refrigerate overnight for an even more flavorful dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious stuffing recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables evenly without crowding them.
• Baking pan: A good size ensures that the stuffing cooks evenly and gets crispy on top.
• Mixing bowls: Helps in combining ingredients thoroughly for a consistent flavor throughout.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing the egg and broth together smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Bread Base

• 1 pound bread (white bread, ciabatta, Italian, baguette, etc.)

For the Vegetables

• 1 cup butter (2 sticks)
• 1 large onion (about 3 and 1/2 cups chopped)
• 2 cups celery (1/4 inch dice)

For the Herbs

• 1/3 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1/4 cup fresh sage (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped very fine)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

For Seasoning

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For Moisture

• 2 cups high quality chicken/turkey broth (plus 1/2 cup more if necessary)

Binding Agent

• 2 large eggs

For Greasing

• 1 tablespoon butter (softened)

How to Make Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Begin by tearing or cutting your loaf of bread into bite-size pieces, about 1-2 inches. Spread pieces onto a dry pan and bake at 250°F for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. You don’t want to brown the bread; just get it nice and toasty to absorb broth. Avoid letting your bread sit out overnight as it turns stale; we want crispy toastiness.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

While your bread is toasting, chop the onion using two small onions if you don’t have one large one. Aim for about 3 and 1/2 cups chopped onion as they bring flavor. Chop the celery into about a 1/4-inch dice for a substantial texture.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Add 2 sticks of butter (1 cup) to a large skillet over medium heat. When melted, add all the celery and onions. Sauté over medium heat for about 7-10 minutes until soft but not browned.

Step 5: Chop Your Herbs

Meanwhile, chop up all your herbs – you’ll need 1/3 cup parsley, 1/4 cup sage, and 1 tablespoon each of rosemary and thyme.

Step 6: Mix Ingredients Together

Add all toasted bread pieces to a large bowl along with chopped herbs and sautéed onions/celery mixture. Sprinkle with salt and pepper then stir until combined.

Step 7: Add Moisture Mixture

In another bowl or glass measuring cup, combine 2 cups chicken broth with whisked eggs. Slowly pour this over bread in increments while using your hands to moisten evenly until absorbed but not soaked.

Step 8: Prepare Baking Pan

Grease the sides and bottom of a baking pan with about 1 tablespoon softened butter. Pour stuffing into the pan spreading evenly.

Step 9: Bake Covered

Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for another 25-35 minutes until desired crispiness is achieved.

Step 10: Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers in the fridge or freeze baked portions successfully!

Enjoy this delightful stuffing recipe at your next gathering!

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Serving your Thanksgiving stuffing is just as important as making it. There are plenty of ways to enjoy this flavorful dish that will impress your guests and elevate your holiday meal.

Classic Serving Suggestions

• With Gravy: Drizzle warm gravy over the stuffing for added moisture and flavor.
• Alongside Roast Chicken: Pair with a juicy roast chicken to complement the savory notes of the stuffing.

Creative Pairings

• Stuffed Peppers: Use leftover stuffing to fill bell peppers, bake until warm, and serve as a unique side dish.
• In Salad: Toss small pieces of stuffing into a fresh salad for a delightful crunch.

Festive Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Top with chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.
• Cranberry Sauce: Serve alongside homemade cranberry sauce for a sweet contrast to the savory stuffing.

How to Perfect Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Creating the perfect stuffing involves attention to detail and some handy tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Use Stale Bread: Ensure your bread is stale or lightly toasted for better broth absorption.
• Don’t Skip the Herbs: Fresh herbs add essential flavor; don’t hesitate to experiment with different combinations.
• Watch the Liquid: Add broth gradually, checking that the mixture is moist but not soggy.
• Bake Covered First: Covering during the first part of baking keeps moisture in; uncover later for crispy edges.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Pairing delicious side dishes with your stuffing can create a well-rounded Thanksgiving feast. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts, roasted until caramelized, make a great addition.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that pairs beautifully with stuffing.
3. Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish adds creamy texture and crunchy topping, balancing flavors on your plate.
4. Sweet Potato Casserole: A sweet counterpart that complements savory dishes well, especially when topped with marshmallows.
5. Cornbread: A slightly sweet cornbread can enhance the flavors of your savory stuffing while adding variety.
6. Brussels Sprouts Salad: A fresh salad made with shredded Brussels sprouts offers crunch and brightness alongside rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect stuffing can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes and how to dodge them:

• Over or Under toasting bread: Not toasting the bread enough leads to a soggy stuffing, while over-toasting can make it too dry. Aim for golden-brown, crisp pieces that will absorb flavors without becoming mushy.

• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season properly can result in bland stuffing. Make sure to use enough salt and herbs to enhance the flavors of your ingredients.

• Using stale bread: Stale bread can make your stuffing tough and chewy. Always use freshly toasted bread for the best texture and flavor.

• Not adjusting liquid: Adding too much broth or eggs can leave you with a wet mixture, while too little will result in a dry stuffing. Start with less liquid and add more as needed for optimal moisture.

• Skipping the resting time: Baking the stuffing immediately after mixing can lead to uneven cooking. Allow it to sit for a bit so the flavors meld together before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover stuffing in an airtight container.
• It lasts for about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• Stuffing can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s fully cooled before freezing.

Reheating Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on low with a splash of broth or water, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving:

Can I use different types of bread?

Yes! You can substitute any bread you like, such as ciabatta, baguette, or even gluten-free options for a great texture and flavor.

What changes can I make for different flavors?

Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or other herbs like thyme or dill for extra flavor variations.

How do I make this vegan?

Replace butter with plant-based alternatives and omit the eggs; instead, use flaxseed meal mixed with water as a binding agent.

Can I prepare it a day ahead?

Absolutely! Prepare the stuffing and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Just allow additional time when reheating.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes! This stuffing is versatile and can be made ahead of time and stored either in the fridge or freezer for future meals.

Final Thoughts

This traditional Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various breads, herbs, and add-ins according to your taste preferences. Give it a try this holiday season; it’s sure to become a family favorite!