Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

If you’re looking for a stuffing recipe that captures the essence of Thanksgiving, you’ve come to the right place! This Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is a cherished tradition in my home. It brings back fond memories of family gatherings, laughter, and the comforting aroma wafting through the kitchen. With its buttery flavor and crispy edges, this stuffing is sure to be the star of your holiday table. Plus, it’s not just for Thanksgiving; it’s perfect for any gathering when you want to impress your loved ones!

What makes this stuffing extra special is its simplicity. Using fresh ingredients and herbs like parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme, it has that nostalgic taste we all crave. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive feast, this recipe will always deliver warmth and joy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of butter and fresh herbs creates a rich flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, even beginner cooks can whip this up with confidence.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this stuffing the night before and bake it right before serving, making your holiday prep a breeze.
• Family-Friendly: This classic dish appeals to all ages—kids love the texture while adults appreciate the flavors.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish for Thanksgiving but equally delightful for any family meal or gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious stuffing! Each component plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture that everyone will love.

Bread Base

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

Vegetables

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

Fresh Herbs

• 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

Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Liquid Ingredients

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

For Greasing the Pan

• 1 tablespoon butter (softened)

Variations

One of the best things about this stuffing recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add some fruit: Diced apples or cranberries can bring a sweet twist to your stuffing.
• Incorporate nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add crunch and depth of flavor.
• Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can give your stuffing an unexpected kick.
• Go veggie: Replace the broth with vegetable broth for a meat-free version that still packs a punch.

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 these pieces onto a dry pan and bake at 250°F for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The goal here isn’t browning but achieving a nice toastiness. This helps the bread absorb all that delicious broth later on!

Step 2: Prep Your Veggies

While your bread is toasting away, chop one large onion until you have about 3 and 1/2 cups worth. Then dice the celery into quarter-inch pieces. Remember, we want these veggies substantial enough to provide great texture without overpowering the dish.

Step 3: Get Cooking!

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt two sticks of butter (that’s right—this is where all those rich flavors come from!). Once melted, toss in your sautéed onions and celery. Cook until they soften—about 7-10 minutes—and don’t let them brown! This step ensures we keep all those lovely flavors intact.

Step 4: Chop Those Herbs!

While your veggies are cooking away in buttery glory, chop up your herbs: parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme. The fragrance from these fresh herbs will fill your kitchen with warmth—just wait!

Step 5: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, add all those toasted bread pieces along with your chopped herbs and sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle on some kosher salt and black pepper; stir everything together gently so all that yummy butter gets evenly distributed.

Step 6: Add Broth & Eggs

In another bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together two cups of chicken broth with two eggs. Slowly pour this mixture over your bread mixture in increments. Use your hands to squeeze gently until everything is moist but not soggy—no one likes liquid pooling at the bottom!

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Grease the sides and bottom of a 9×13 inch pan with softened butter. Pour in the stuffing mixture and spread it out evenly. If you want to get ahead on prep work, cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight!

Step 8: Bake It Up!

Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes. After that time’s up, remove the foil and continue baking for another 25-35 minutes until it reaches your desired level of golden-brown crispiness.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Once it’s done baking beautifully in the oven, serve warm alongside your favorite Thanksgiving dishes! Leftovers? No problem! Store them in the fridge or freeze baked leftovers for later enjoyment.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this incredible Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Making the perfect stuffing can truly elevate your Thanksgiving feast—here are some tips to ensure your dish is a crowd-pleaser!

• Use day-old bread: Opting for slightly stale bread helps absorb more broth, preventing soggy stuffing while ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
• Customize herbs to taste: Feel free to adjust the amounts of parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme according to your preferences. Fresh herbs bring brightness and depth, making the stuffing uniquely yours.
• Don’t skimp on butter: The rich flavor from butter not only enhances the taste but also contributes to that crispy texture we all love. A generous amount keeps your stuffing moist and delicious.
• Let it rest before baking: If you have time, letting the mixture sit for 30 minutes after mixing allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It also helps the bread absorb more moisture for an even better texture.
• Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch or dried fruits such as cranberries for a hint of sweetness. These additions can provide delightful surprises in every bite.

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Presenting your stuffing beautifully can make a great impression at your holiday gathering! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle additional chopped parsley or sage on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Cranberry sauce: A small bowl of tangy cranberry sauce on the side can complement the savory flavors of the stuffing perfectly.
• Chopped green onions: For a mild onion flavor and crunch, consider garnishing with sliced green onions.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes adds color and nutrition to your plate while balancing out the richness of stuffing.
• Green bean casserole: This classic dish combines tender green beans with creamy mushroom soup and crispy onions. Its creamy texture pairs beautifully with the fluffy stuffing.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a staple at many Thanksgiving tables. Their smoothness complements the texture of stuffing, making every bite heavenly.
• Gravy: A rich turkey or vegetable gravy poured over both mashed potatoes and stuffing brings everything together deliciously.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving will be a standout at any holiday table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones on the big day. You can prepare it in advance, store it properly, and still serve a delicious side dish when it’s time to eat.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the stuffing cool completely before freezing.
• Portion out servings into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffing overnight in the refrigerator.
• To reheat, place stuffing in a baking dish and cover with foil.
• Bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious stuffing recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I make this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just follow the baking instructions when you’re ready to serve.

What kind of bread works best for this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

You can use any type of bread you love! White bread, ciabatta, Italian or even baguette will work beautifully. The key is to ensure it’s toasted well for that perfect texture.

How do I avoid soggy stuffing?

To prevent soggy stuffing, make sure your bread is adequately toasted before mixing it with the broth. Also, add broth gradually, ensuring that the mixture is moist but not soaked.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to adjust herbs or use vegetable broth instead of chicken/turkey broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without a hearty stuffing that warms your heart and soul. This Stuffing Recipe is special because it brings back nostalgic family memories while being easy enough for anyone to master. I hope you enjoy making this delightful dish as much as I do—it’s truly a labor of love that will impress your guests and make your holiday meal memorable. Happy cooking!