Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

If you’re looking for the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving feast, look no further! This Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving has been a cherished family favorite for years. It’s packed with flavor, featuring buttery bread and a delightful mix of herbs that will make your home smell like a cozy holiday gathering. Whether you’re hosting a big dinner or just enjoying a quiet meal with loved ones, this stuffing is sure to bring everyone together.

What makes this stuffing truly special are the crispy edges and the balance of flavors. It’s reminiscent of those comforting dishes from childhood, making it perfect for both Thanksgiving and any family gathering. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up on busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This stuffing comes together quickly with minimal fuss, allowing you to focus on other dishes.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves stuffing! Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting side dish.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep it the night before, saving time on the big day.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of herbs and vegetables creates a mouthwatering taste that pairs perfectly with turkey or chicken.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients that make this stuffing so irresistible! You’ll find that these pantry staples come together beautifully to create a dish that feels warm and inviting.

Ingredients:
– 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! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have or your family’s preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Include dried fruits: Stir in some dried cranberries or apricots for a sweet touch.
• Use different herbs: Experiment with thyme or marjoram to give it your unique twist.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meat-free version.

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 the pieces onto a dry pan and bake at 250°F for about an hour, stirring occasionally. The goal here isn’t browning—the toastiness helps absorb all that delicious broth later!

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

While your bread is getting nice and toasty, chop up the onion until you have about 3 and ½ cups. Don’t forget about the celery—cut it into roughly ¼ inch dice. You want these pieces substantial enough to hold their own in the stuffing while adding their wonderful flavors!

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Celery

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 sticks of butter. Once melted, add in all that chopped celery and onion mixture. Sauté these veggies for about 7-10 minutes until they soften but don’t brown—this will enhance their sweetness without burning them!

Step 4: Chop Your Herbs

As your veggies are cooking away, take this time to chop up all those lovely herbs: parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme. Fresh herbs make all the difference in flavor!

Step 5: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, combine all your toasted bread pieces with those fragrant chopped herbs along with the sautéed onion-celery mixture. Sprinkle in salt and pepper before mixing everything until well combined—make sure that buttery goodness gets evenly distributed.

Step 6: Add Broth Mixture

In another bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth with eggs until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture over your bread mixture in increments. Use your hands to squeeze and moisten everything together—be gentle! You want each piece of bread coated but not swimming in liquid.

Step 7: Transfer to Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13 inch pan with softened butter before pouring in your stuffing mixture. Spread it out evenly across the dish. If you’d like to prep ahead of time, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight.

Step 8: Bake It Up!

Cover your baking dish with foil and bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes. After that time, remove the foil and continue baking for another 25-35 minutes until it’s golden brown on top—your kitchen should smell divine by now!

And there you have it—a delightful Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving that will become an instant classic at every gathering! Enjoy those leftovers too; they freeze wonderfully!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Creating the perfect stuffing is an art, and with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to impressing your guests this Thanksgiving!

• Use Day-Old Bread: For the best texture, opt for slightly stale bread. It absorbs the broth better without becoming mushy, ensuring a delightful crunch in every bite.
• Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time sautéing the onions and celery. This step builds depth of flavor that really enhances the overall dish. A little patience goes a long way here!
• Customize Your Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs based on personal preference or what you have on hand. Fresh herbs elevate the flavor and make the stuffing truly unique.
• Taste and Adjust: Before baking, always taste your mixture. This is the time to adjust salt or pepper levels to your liking, ensuring that every bite is perfectly seasoned.
• Cover and Refrigerate: If you’re preparing ahead of time, consider assembling the stuffing and refrigerating it overnight. This allows flavors to meld beautifully before baking.

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Serving your stuffing can be just as important as making it! Here are some creative ways to present this beloved dish at your holiday gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or sage on top adds a pop of color and freshness that elevates the dish visually.
• Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of tangy cranberry sauce on the side not only adds flavor contrast but also brings a festive touch to your plate.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes complement the stuffing’s richness beautifully.
• Green Bean Casserole: This classic side dish offers a creamy texture and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the buttery stuffing.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast, making them a favorite alongside stuffing for many families during Thanksgiving.
• Gravy: A rich turkey or vegetarian gravy drizzled over both stuffing and potatoes creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

This stuffing recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends on Thanksgiving. Here’s how to store any leftovers or make it in advance.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the stuffing cool completely.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Seal tightly and label with the date; it can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
• Place the stuffing in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious stuffing recipe:

Can I make this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Just follow all the steps up to baking, then refrigerate it covered until you’re ready to cook.

What is the best way to store my Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving leftovers?

Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage!

Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?

Yes! You can use any bread you like—white bread, ciabatta, Italian, or even cornbread. Each type will give it a unique flavor and texture.

How do I know when my stuffing is done baking?

The stuffing is ready when it’s browned on top and crispy around the edges. You can also insert a thermometer; it should read at least 165 degrees F in the center.

Can I add other ingredients to my stuffing?

Feel free to customize your stuffing! You can add nuts, dried fruit, or other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving holds a special place in my heart because it captures that nostalgic taste we all love during the holidays. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do and that it becomes a cherished part of your Thanksgiving celebrations. Happy cooking, and may your holiday be filled with warmth and laughter!