Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

If you’re looking for a stuffing recipe that captures the heart and soul of Thanksgiving, you’ve come to the right place! This Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is one I hold dear to my heart. It’s the kind of dish that makes your home smell warm and inviting, pulling family members into the kitchen like moths to a flame. The buttery flavor, combined with the fresh herbs and crispy edges, brings back memories of holidays spent with loved ones. It’s not just for Thanksgiving; this stuffing is perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights when you want something comforting.

Every bite of this stuffing transports me back to my childhood, where I can almost hear my grandmother humming while she prepared her famous dish. Trust me, this recipe is a keeper—one that you’ll want to make year after year!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This stuffing comes together quickly with simple steps, making it perfect even for novice cooks.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Its classic flavors will delight everyone at the table, from kids to grandparents.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven right before serving—less stress on the big day!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of herbs and butter creates an irresistible taste that’s sure to impress.
• Crispy Edges: Who doesn’t love those delightful crispy bits? This recipe ensures every bite has that perfect texture!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find everything you need for this comforting stuffing right at your local grocery store. Let’s make some magic in the kitchen!

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! Feel free to get creative and add your own spin. Here are some ideas:

• Add some fruit: Toss in dried cranberries or apples for a sweet twist that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
• Mix in nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor to your stuffing.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute regular bread with your favorite gluten-free variety for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
• Incorporate sausage: If meat is allowed in your meals, adding cooked turkey or chicken sausage can give your stuffing an extra layer of flavor.

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 is not to brown the bread but to get it nice and toasty so it can absorb all that delicious broth later on. Trust me; this step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture!

Step 2: Prep Your Veggies

While your bread is toasting away, chop up your onion using two small onions if you don’t have one large one—aim for about 3 and 1/2 cups chopped onion. Onions bring so much flavor! Next, chop your celery into about a 1/4 inch dice; we want it substantial enough to stand out in our stuffing.

Step 3: Sauté Celery and Onions

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt two sticks of butter (that’s right!) and add all the celery and onions. Sauté them together for about 7-10 minutes until soft but not browned. The butter will soak into our toasted bread later on—so don’t skip this step!

Step 4: Chop Your Herbs

While those veggies are cooking away in buttery goodness, chop up all your herbs: parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme. Fresh herbs are what make this stuffing truly special!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add all those toasted bread pieces into a large bowl along with your chopped herbs and sautéed onion-celery mixture. Sprinkle with salt and pepper before giving everything a good stir until well combined.

Step 6: Mix in Broth and Eggs

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

Step 7: Prepare Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with about one tablespoon of softened butter. Pour your mixture into the pan and spread it evenly.

Step 8: Bake

Cover your stuffing with foil and bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 25-35 minutes until it’s as brown and crispy as you like.

Step 9: Enjoy Leftovers

Store any leftovers in the fridge—they’ll be just as tasty reheated! You can also freeze baked leftovers if needed.

And there you have it! A delightful Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving that’s perfectly suited for any occasion. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Making the perfect stuffing is all about the little details, so here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out deliciously every time.

• Use Day-Old Bread: Day-old bread absorbs broth better, creating a more flavorful stuffing. Fresh bread can become too soggy, so give your loaf some time to dry out before using it.

• Don’t Rush the Saute: Sautéing your onions and celery until they are just soft adds depth of flavor to your stuffing. This step ensures that they soften without browning, which can lead to a bitter taste.

• Adjust the Liquid Carefully: Every type of bread absorbs liquid differently. Start with less broth and add more if necessary; you want a moist stuffing without any broth pooling at the bottom.

• Let It Rest: If you have time, allow the assembled stuffing to rest for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully and ensures even moisture distribution throughout.

• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to customize by adding herbs like thyme or marjoram according to your taste. Fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile and make your stuffing uniquely yours.

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Serving your stuffing is just as important as making it! Here are some creative ideas for presenting this beloved side dish on your Thanksgiving table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or sage on top adds color and freshness.
• Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of homemade cranberry sauce on the side brings a tart contrast that complements the rich flavors of the stuffing.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes bring color and sweetness to your plate while balancing out hearty stuffing.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that provides a comforting texture alongside your savory stuffing.
• Green Bean Casserole: The crunchiness from fried onions and creamy sauce in this traditional dish offers a delightful contrast in texture.
• Gravy: A rich turkey or vegetarian gravy drizzled over everything brings harmony to the meal, enhancing both flavor and moisture.

With these serving tips and side suggestions, your Thanksgiving feast will be both beautiful and delicious! Enjoy every bite of this cherished tradition.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it a breeze to serve at your holiday gathering! You can easily prepare it in advance and store it for later, ensuring you have more time to enjoy the festivities.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

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

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• 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.

FAQs

Have some questions about this fantastic stuffing recipe? Here are some common queries that might help!

Can I make this stuffing recipe Thanksgiving ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just remember to cover it tightly in your baking dish. Bake it on Thanksgiving Day for a deliciously warm side!

What bread should I use for this stuffing recipe Thanksgiving?

You can use various breads such as white bread, ciabatta, Italian bread, or baguette. The key is to ensure it’s dried out enough to absorb the broth without becoming mushy.

How do I know when my stuffing is done cooking?

Your stuffing is ready when it’s golden brown and crispy on top. If you’re unsure, you can check with a food thermometer; it should reach at least 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute chicken or turkey broth with vegetable broth, and you’ll have a delightful vegetarian stuffing that’s just as tasty!

What should I serve with this stuffing?

This stuffing pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole. It’s a classic addition that complements any Thanksgiving feast!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe! With its buttery flavor and crispy edges, it’s sure to evoke warm memories of family gatherings. Enjoy creating this delightful dish in your kitchen, and may it become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Happy cooking!