Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

If you’re looking for a classic stuffing recipe that will remind you of cozy family gatherings, you’ve come to the right place! This Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is everything you want in a holiday side dish: warm, buttery, and bursting with flavor from fresh herbs. It’s the kind of dish that makes your heart feel full and your home smell like love. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a busy weeknight, this stuffing is perfect for any occasion that calls for comfort food.

What makes this stuffing truly special is how it captures the essence of tradition while being incredibly simple to prepare. With a few wholesome ingredients and some love, you can create a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, this stuffing comes together quickly.
• Family-Friendly: The rich flavors and crispy edges make it a hit with both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep it ahead of time, saving you stress on busy days.
• Deliciously Flavorful: Fresh herbs like parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme bring an aromatic punch that elevates your meal.
• Versatile: Not just for Thanksgiving—this stuffing pairs beautifully with any roasted dish or cozy dinner!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up this delightful stuffing. Each component plays its part in creating that warm, nostalgic flavor 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; 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

One of the best things about this stuffing recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to fit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add Some Crunch: Mix in toasted pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
• Infuse with Fruits: Dried cranberries or apples can add a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
• Herb Swap: Try using different herbs like thyme or marjoram if you prefer something unique.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.

How to Make Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Step 1: Toast the Bread

Begin by tearing or cutting your loaf of bread into bite-size pieces, about 1-2 inches. Spread these pieces onto a dry pan and bake at 250°F for about 1 hour. Stir occasionally—this ensures they get nice and toasty without browning. We want them crispy enough to absorb all that delicious broth later!

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

While your bread is toasting, chop the onion until you have about 3 and 1/2 cups. Use two small onions if you don’t have one large one. Next, chop the celery into a 1/4 inch dice—not too tiny! We want substantial bites that hold their own in the stuffing.

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 all the celery and onions. Sauté for about 7-10 minutes until they’re soft but not browned. This step brings out their sweetness and creates a flavorful base for our stuffing.

Step 4: Chop Those Herbs

While your veggies are cooking away in buttery goodness, chop up all your herbs: parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme. The fresher they are, the better your stuffing will taste!

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss in all those toasted bread pieces along with your chopped herbs. Add in the sautéed onion and celery mixture too! Sprinkle with salt and pepper before giving everything a good stir. This ensures every morsel gets seasoned evenly.

Step 6: Add Broth Mixture

In another bowl or measuring cup, whisk together 2 cups of high-quality chicken broth with those two eggs. Slowly pour this mixture over the bread while using your hands to squeeze it gently—make sure every piece absorbs moisture without becoming soggy!

Step 7: Bake Your Stuffing

Grease a 9×13 inch pan with softened butter before pouring in your stuffing mix. Spread it out evenly across the pan. If you’re preparing this ahead of time, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight! Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes; then remove the foil and continue baking until it’s golden brown—about another 25-35 minutes.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Once it’s perfectly crispy on top and soft inside, let it cool slightly before serving! Enjoy knowing you’ve made an unforgettable staple that will grace many tables during festive times ahead—or any dinner where comfort food is called for!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Making stuffing can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your Thanksgiving stuffing is the star of the meal!

• Use stale bread: Stale bread absorbs the broth better than fresh bread, giving you that ideal texture. If you don’t have stale bread, toasting it in the oven as described in the recipe will help achieve that perfect consistency.

• Don’t skip the herbs: Fresh herbs are key to bringing out the flavors in your stuffing. They add depth and aroma, making every bite delightful. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs!

• Taste and adjust: Before baking, taste your mixture! This step ensures your seasoning is just right. Remember, you can always add more salt or herbs to enhance flavor.

• Let it rest after baking: Allowing the stuffing to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it firm up slightly, making it easier to serve. Plus, it gives those crispy edges a chance to shine!

• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare this stuffing a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This saves time on Thanksgiving day and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Presenting your stuffing beautifully can make all the difference at your Thanksgiving table! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or sage over the top before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• Cranberry sauce: A small dollop of cranberry sauce on top adds a pop of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory stuffing.
• Lemon zest: Grating a little lemon zest on top just before serving brightens up the flavors and adds an aromatic touch.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and squash roasted with olive oil and herbs complement the stuffing perfectly.

• Green Bean Casserole: A creamy green bean casserole provides a delicious contrast with its rich flavors while remaining a classic Thanksgiving side dish.

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting staple that pairs wonderfully with stuffing; plus, they’re great for soaking up gravy!

• Herbed Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with fresh herbs and vinaigrette balances out the richer elements on your plate while adding a healthy twist.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re sure to create an unforgettable Thanksgiving meal centered around this amazing stuffing recipe! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Stuffing Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the comforting flavors of Thanksgiving without all the last-minute hustle. You can prepare it ahead of time, store it properly, and have delicious stuffing ready to go when you need it.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the stuffing cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffing overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the stuffing in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through.
• For crispy edges, uncover during the last 10 minutes of reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this Stuffing Recipe for Thanksgiving.

Can I make this stuffing recipe ahead of Thanksgiving?

Absolutely! This Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving can be prepared a day in advance. Just follow all steps until baking, then cover and refrigerate. Bake before serving.

How do I store leftovers from my Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It’s delicious reheated!

What bread works best for this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

You can use any type of bread—white, ciabatta, or even a baguette work wonderfully. Just ensure it’s stale enough to absorb those delicious flavors without becoming mushy.

Can I add other ingredients to my Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

Yes! Feel free to include nuts, dried fruits, or other vegetables like mushrooms or carrots for added flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that it may change the overall taste!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you love making this traditional Stuffing Recipe as much as I do! With its buttery richness and fragrant herbs, it’s bound to become a family favorite at your Thanksgiving table. Enjoy every bite and feel free to experiment with your own twists on this classic dish. Happy cooking!

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