Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful dish to elevate your Thanksgiving feast, this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is just what you need! It captures the essence of family gatherings and holiday cheer, making it a cherished addition to any table. The delightful mix of buttery bread, aromatic herbs, and sautéed vegetables creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, it’s perfect not only for Thanksgiving but also for cozy weeknight dinners or festive family gatherings.

What I love most about this stuffing is its simplicity. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready in no time. This recipe truly evokes those nostalgic memories of grandma’s kitchen, filling your home with warmth and love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With simple steps and minimal fuss, this stuffing comes together quickly.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone will enjoy the classic flavors; it’s sure to become a favorite!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it ahead of time for stress-free holiday cooking.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of herbs and butter creates an irresistible taste that enhances any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This stuffing recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Cooking with fresh herbs and quality bread makes all the difference in flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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 how flexible it is! You can easily tailor it to suit your taste or use up what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add nuts: Incorporate some chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Mix in fruits: Diced apples or cranberries add a sweet twist that pairs beautifully with savory flavors.
• Change up the bread: Feel free to use whole grain or gluten-free bread to match dietary preferences.
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you’re feeling adventurous!

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 an hour, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial because toasting the bread helps it absorb the broth later without becoming soggy. We want crispy and toasty bread for that perfect stuffing texture!

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

While your bread is toasting, chop your onion until you have about 3 and 1/2 cups—use two small onions if needed. Chop the celery into a rough dice; we need it to be substantial enough to add texture without overpowering everything else. Don’t forget those celery leaves; they add great flavor!

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Celery

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter before adding in all the chopped celery and onions. Sauté them for about 7–10 minutes until they’re soft but not browned. The butter will soak into our toasted bread later on, creating that rich flavor we crave.

Step 4: Chop Your Herbs

While everything is cooking away nicely, chop up your herbs—parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme—so they’re ready when we combine everything together. Fresh herbs are key here; they really brighten up the dish!

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix all those toasted bread pieces with the sautéed onions and celery mixture along with your freshly chopped herbs. Add in salt and pepper too! Make sure everything is well combined so every bite has that amazing flavor.

Step 6: Moisten the Bread

In another bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth with eggs. Pour this mixture over the bread gradually while using your hands to squeeze and moisten it all together. The goal is moist but not soaked—no one wants soggy stuffing! Adjust with more broth as needed until you reach that perfect consistency.

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Grease a 9×13 inch pan with softened butter before pouring in the stuffing mixture. Spread it evenly across the pan. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes. Then remove the foil and let it bake for another 25–35 minutes until it’s golden brown on top—just how we like it!

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Once baked to perfection, let your stuffing rest before serving. It’s perfect alongside turkey or roasted veggies! Don’t forget—you can store leftovers in the fridge or even freeze them for later enjoyment.

Now you’re all set with this wonderful Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving! Enjoy making memories around the dinner table as you share this delicious dish with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Making stuffing can feel daunting, but with a few helpful tips, you’ll have everyone raving about your dish!

• Choose the Right Bread: Using a mix of breads, like ciabatta and baguette, adds different textures and flavors. This variety ensures your stuffing isn’t just one-note; it has depth and interest.

• Don’t Rush the Toasting: Toasting the bread at a low temperature for an hour is crucial. This step helps the bread absorb the broth better, leading to a perfect balance of moistness without being soggy.

• Adjust Your Broth: Depending on how dry your bread is, you may need more or less broth than the recipe calls for. It’s all about achieving that ideal moist consistency—don’t hesitate to trust your instincts!

• Let it Rest Before Baking: If you prepare your stuffing ahead of time and refrigerate it, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps it cook evenly throughout.

• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to mix in other herbs like thyme or even some dried fruit for sweetness. Personalizing your stuffing will make it uniquely yours!

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Presenting your Thanksgiving stuffing can be as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley not only adds color but also brightens the flavors.
• Cranberry Sauce: A small serving of cranberry sauce on the side provides a sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with savory stuffing.
• Chopped Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that enhances the overall experience.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes roasted with olive oil and herbs create a colorful and healthy complement to your stuffing.

• Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish offers creamy richness along with crispy fried onions on top, making for a delightful textural contrast against your stuffing.

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit! They allow everyone to enjoy that buttery goodness alongside your flavorful stuffing.

• Gravy: A rich vegetarian gravy can tie everything together beautifully. Drizzling it over both the stuffing and other sides elevates the entire meal.

As you gather around the table this Thanksgiving, remember that this stuffing recipe is not just food—it’s part of creating memories with loved ones! Enjoy every bite and cherish these moments together.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance, making your holiday cooking a breeze. Here’s how to store and enjoy your delicious stuffing later!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the stuffing cool entirely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the stuffing in a baking dish, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
• Cover with foil and bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

If you have questions about this stuffing recipe, I’ve got answers!

Can I make this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to cover it tightly!

What type of bread is best for Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

Any sturdy bread works well! I recommend using white bread, ciabatta, or baguette for the best texture. Avoid soft sandwich bread as it won’t hold up during baking.

Can I substitute vegetable broth in this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

Yes! If you prefer a vegetarian version, feel free to use high-quality vegetable broth instead of chicken or turkey broth. It will still be flavorful and delicious!

How do I ensure my stuffing doesn’t turn out soggy?

To prevent soggy stuffing, make sure your bread is properly toasted before mixing it with broth. It should be moist but not swimming in liquid!

Can I add other ingredients to this stuffing recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to customize your stuffing by adding cranberries, nuts, or different herbs according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe as much as I do! It brings back warm memories and fills the house with comfort during the holidays. It’s truly special when you can gather around the table with loved ones and share good food. So go ahead and whip this up—your friends and family will thank you for it!