Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

If you’re looking for a classic dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to your Thanksgiving table, this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is just what you need! It’s a recipe that has been passed down, evoking memories of family gatherings filled with laughter and love. The buttery flavor, combined with the crispy edges and fragrant herbs, makes this stuffing an absolute favorite among friends and family alike. Whether you’re hosting a big feast or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this stuffing will make any occasion feel special.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. You can whip it up on busy weeknights or save it for those festive family gatherings. It’s one of those comforting dishes that everyone looks forward to—it’s sure to become a staple in your holiday traditions!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, anyone can make this delicious stuffing!
• Family-friendly appeal: This recipe is loved by kids and adults alike—perfect for gathering everyone around the table.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it in advance, making your holiday cooking stress-free and enjoyable.
• Irresistible flavor: The combination of fresh herbs and buttery bread creates a mouthwatering taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. These ingredients work together to create a deliciously rich flavor profile that will delight everyone at your table.

• 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 customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some delightful variations:

• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture.
• Incorporate dried fruit: Diced apples or cranberries give a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
• Experiment with bread types: Use cornbread or whole-grain bread for a different twist on classic stuffing.
• Mix in vegetables: Add sautéed mushrooms or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.

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 the pieces onto a dry pan and bake at 250°F for about an hour, stirring occasionally. You don’t want to brown the bread; just get it nice and toasty! This step is crucial because toasted bread absorbs the broth better without turning mushy.

Step 2: Prepare the Veggies

While your bread is toasting, chop the onion until you have about 3 and 1/2 cups. Onion brings so much flavor—don’t skimp on this step! Next, chop the celery into a rough dice. For stuffing, larger pieces work better than tiny ones as they add substance to each bite.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Celery

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add all the celery and onions. Sauté them for about 7-10 minutes until they’re soft but not browned. This step allows their flavors to meld beautifully before mixing them in with the bread.

Step 4: Chop Your Herbs

While the veggies are cooking away, chop up all your fresh herbs: parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme. Fresh herbs elevate this stuffing recipe tremendously—there’s nothing like their vibrant aroma!

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, add all the toasted bread pieces along with your chopped herbs and sautéed veggies. Sprinkle in kosher salt and black pepper before stirring everything together thoroughly—it’s important that every piece of bread gets coated in that luscious butter!

Step 6: Moistening the Mixture

In another bowl or large measuring cup, combine chicken broth with eggs using a whisk. Slowly pour this mixture over the bread while gently squeezing it with your hands until it’s absorbed but not soaked; there should be no liquid pooling at the bottom of the bowl.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

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

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

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 golden brown and crispy on top—a sign that it’s ready to be enjoyed!

Step 9: Enjoy!

Once baked to perfection, let it cool slightly before serving. And don’t worry about leftovers—this stuffing keeps well in the fridge or can even be frozen for later enjoyment.

Now gather your friends and family around as you serve up this delightful Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving! Enjoy every bite filled with love and comfort!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Making the perfect stuffing is about balancing flavors and textures, so here are some tips to ensure yours turns out delicious!

• Use Stale Bread: Fresh bread can become mushy when mixed with broth. Using stale bread allows for better absorption of flavors without losing that delightful texture.
• Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Giving your onions and celery enough time to soften in butter enhances their sweetness and flavor, creating a richer base for your stuffing.
• Taste as You Go: Before baking, make sure to taste your mixture. Adjusting seasonings at this stage ensures that the final dish is seasoned just right.
• Watch the Bake Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your stuffing as it bakes. The goal is crispy edges with a moist center—don’t be afraid to adjust baking times!
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts like pecans or walnuts, dried fruits like cranberries or apricots, or even cooked sausage alternatives for a unique twist.

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Presentation is key during Thanksgiving! Here are some ideas to showcase your delicious stuffing.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or sage on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the whole dish.
• Cranberry Sauce: A spoonful of homemade cranberry sauce on the side introduces a sweet-tart element that pairs beautifully with savory stuffing.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized create a hearty balance alongside your stuffing.
• Green Bean Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with almonds offer a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that complements the soft stuffing perfectly.
• Sweet Potato Casserole: This dish brings warmth and sweetness to your table, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your Thanksgiving meal.
• Gravy: A rich turkey or mushroom gravy poured over the stuffing adds moisture and umami depth, making every bite even more indulgent.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll have everything you need for an unforgettable Thanksgiving celebration centered around this classic Stuffing Recipe! Enjoy making lasting memories with family and friends over this delightful dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Stuffing Recipe for Thanksgiving is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy all the flavors of the holidays without the last-minute stress. You can easily prepare it ahead of time and store it for later use!

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover stuffing in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of baking.
• Consume leftovers within 3-4 days for best flavor.

Freezing

• Allow the stuffing to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the stuffing in a baking dish and cover with foil.
• Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through, removing the foil in the last few minutes for a crispy top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious stuffing recipe!

Can I make this Stuffing Recipe for Thanksgiving ahead of time?

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

What type of bread is best for Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

You can use white bread, ciabatta, Italian bread, or even a baguette! The key is to ensure it’s toasted well so it absorbs all that flavorful broth.

How do I adjust seasoning in my Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

Taste your mixture before baking! If you find it needs more flavor, add additional herbs or adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in this recipe?

Yes! For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken broth with high-quality vegetable broth. It will still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you love making this Stuffing Recipe for Thanksgiving as much as I do! It’s filled with warm flavors that remind us of family gatherings and cherished traditions. Enjoy every bite, and may your holiday be filled with joy and good food. Happy cooking!