Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting side dish that will steal the show this Thanksgiving, you’ve come to the right place! This Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is a cherished family favorite that brings back memories of cozy gatherings and laughter around the dinner table. It’s simple to make and packed with flavors that remind you of home. Whether it’s for a big family feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this stuffing is sure to be a hit!

What makes this stuffing special is its buttery richness and those delightful crispy edges that everyone loves. With the perfect blend of herbs like parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme, every bite is bursting with flavor. It’s truly the essence of what Thanksgiving should taste like—warm, inviting, and just like grandma used to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this stuffing in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this comforting classic.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven before serving.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of butter with fresh herbs creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for holidays or any day when you’re craving something warm and hearty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to make this fabulous stuffing! Each ingredient plays a role in creating the delicious flavors we all love.

For the Stuffing

• 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; Italian flat-leaf works great)
• 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

One of the best parts about this stuffing recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add nuts: Consider tossing in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Include dried fruits: Dried cranberries or raisins can bring a touch of sweetness that complements the savory elements beautifully.
• Mix in seasonal veggies: Try adding diced carrots or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
• Change up the bread type: Different breads can add unique flavors—think cornbread for a Southern twist!

How to Make Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Begin by tearing or cutting your loaf of bread into bite-size pieces—around 1-2 inches. Spread these pieces onto a dry pan and bake at 250°F for about an hour. The goal here is not to brown the bread but to toast it nicely so it can soak up all that delicious broth later. Avoid letting your bread sit out overnight; we want crispy and toasty pieces rather than stale ones!

Step 2: Chop Your Veggies

While your bread is toasting away, chop up your onion until you have about 3½ cups. If you don’t have one large onion, feel free to use two smaller ones! Remember that onions bring fantastic flavor to your stuffing. Next, dice your celery into about a quarter-inch size; while tiny pieces are usually preferred for other dishes, here we want them substantial enough to add texture.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt two sticks of butter—yes, that’s right! Add all the chopped celery and onions once melted. Sauté them together for about 7-10 minutes until they soften but don’t brown. This step ensures those sweet flavors get released into our stuffing.

Step 4: Chop Fresh Herbs

While everything is cooking away on the stove, grab those aromatic herbs! Chop up one-third cup of parsley, a quarter cup of sage, and one tablespoon each of rosemary and thyme. These fresh herbs are what make your stuffing fragrant and flavorful.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all the toasted bread pieces with your freshly chopped herbs. Now add in all that sautéed onion and celery mixture. Sprinkle everything with two teaspoons kosher salt—and remember to adjust if using table salt—and one teaspoon black pepper. Take a moment to stir everything well; we want that luscious butter evenly distributed throughout!

Step 6: Add Broth & Eggs

In another bowl or measuring cup, whisk together two cups of high-quality chicken broth with two eggs. Gradually pour this mixture over your bread mixture in increments while using your hands gently to squeeze and moisten everything together. You want it moist but not soggy—there shouldn’t be liquid pooling at the bottom.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Now let’s grease our pan! Use about one tablespoon softened butter on a 9×13 inch baking dish’s sides and bottom. Pour in your beautifully mixed stuffing and spread it evenly across the edges.

Step 8: Bake Your Stuffing

Cover your casserole dish tightly with foil and bake at 350°F for around 40 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil so you can continue baking it for another 25-35 minutes until it reaches that golden-brown crispiness on top that everyone craves.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Now it’s time to dig in! Store any leftovers in the fridge or freeze them if you want them later on—if there are any leftovers left after such a delicious feast!

With love from my kitchen to yours—enjoy making this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Creating the perfect stuffing can be an art, but with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to impressing your guests!

• Use day-old bread: This helps absorb the broth better and gives your stuffing a great texture. Fresh bread can get mushy, while slightly stale bread holds its shape beautifully.

• Don’t rush the sauté: Take your time when cooking the celery and onions. Properly softened veggies release their sweetness and deepen the flavor of your stuffing.

• Taste as you go: After mixing in the seasonings, take a moment to taste! Adjusting salt and pepper ensures a perfectly seasoned dish that everyone will love.

• Let it rest before baking: Allowing the stuffing to sit for about 15 minutes after mixing lets the flavors meld together beautifully.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to customize! Dried cranberries, nuts, or even sautéed mushrooms can add unique flavors and textures that make your stuffing truly special.

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Serving your delicious stuffing is just as important as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this comforting side dish at your Thanksgiving table.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of 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 complements the savory notes of the stuffing beautifully.
• Toasted nuts: A handful of toasted pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top adds crunch and richness.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized provide a colorful contrast and a touch of sweetness.

• Green Bean Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic and topped with toasted almonds offer a delightful crunch and vibrant flavor.

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that balances out the richness of stuffing while soaking up all those delicious juices from other dishes.

• Butternut Squash Soup: A warm bowl of velvety butternut squash soup serves as a comforting starter that sets the tone for your festive meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create a memorable Thanksgiving feast that everyone will cherish. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Stuffing Recipe for Thanksgiving is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully while saving you time on the big day.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• To freeze, place cooled stuffing in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffing in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the stuffing with foil.
• Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it’s too dry!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious stuffing recipe!

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

Absolutely! You can use any type of bread that you love. White bread, ciabatta, or even cornbread can add unique flavors and textures to your stuffing.

How do I make this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute regular bread with your favorite gluten-free bread. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold up during baking.

Can I prepare this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving a day ahead?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it on Thanksgiving day when you’re ready to serve.

What herbs work best in this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

While this recipe uses parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme, feel free to customize with other herbs like oregano or basil based on your preference!

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To create a vegan version, substitute butter with plant-based alternatives and replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or a commercial egg replacer. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this traditional Stuffing Recipe for Thanksgiving! It’s such a comforting dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations. Whether you stick closely to the recipe or put your own twist on it, I’m excited for you to experience those delicious buttery flavors and crispy edges. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!

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