Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

If you’re looking for a stuffing recipe that feels like a warm hug from your grandma, then you’ve come to the right place! This Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is not just any side dish; it’s a comforting blend of buttery bread, aromatic herbs, and sautéed veggies that will fill your home with delicious scents. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this stuffing is sure to become a cherished favorite at your table.

What makes this recipe truly special is the combination of fresh ingredients and classic flavors. It’s easy enough for beginners but impressive enough to share with friends. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it for every holiday!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this stuffing ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: It’s a crowd-pleaser that kids and adults alike will love—who can resist those crispy edges?
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it the night before and bake it just before serving, saving you time on the big day.
• Delicious Flavor: The buttery richness combined with fresh herbs creates an unforgettable taste that will remind you of home.
• Versatile Option: This stuffing works beautifully as a side dish for any occasion, not just Thanksgiving!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is part of the fun! These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully.

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)
• 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 make it your own!

• Add Nuts or Dried Fruit: Toss in some chopped walnuts or dried cranberries for added texture and sweetness.
• Use Different Herbs: Try swapping out the herbs based on what you have on hand—thyme and oregano work beautifully too!
• Incorporate Sausage Alternatives: For a heartier version, consider adding a plant-based sausage crumbled into the mix.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to make this stuffing suitable for everyone at your table.

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 them at 250°F for about 1 hour. Stir occasionally to ensure they toast evenly. This step is crucial because we want our bread nice and toasty—not browned! Toasty bread absorbs broth better, giving you that perfect stuffing texture.

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables

While your bread is toasting away, chop up your onion until you’ve got about 3 and 1/2 cups worth. If you don’t have one large onion, two small ones will do just fine! Then chop your celery into a quarter-inch dice; we want these pieces substantial enough to add great flavor without disappearing into the mix.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Celery

Next, preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt your butter—this is where all that rich flavor comes from! Add in your chopped onions and celery and sauté them for about 7-10 minutes until they soften without browning. The butter helps infuse these vegetables with flavor while ensuring they are perfectly tender.

Step 4: Chop Your Herbs

While everything cooks away beautifully, take some time to chop up all those lovely herbs: parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme. Fresh herbs are key—they bring freshness and aroma that elevate this stuffing from ordinary to extraordinary!

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all those toasted bread pieces with your sautéed veggie mixture and chopped herbs. Sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper—give everything a good stir so all those buttery flavors get distributed evenly!

Step 6: Add Broth and Eggs

In another bowl or measuring cup, whisk together two cups of chicken broth with two eggs. Gradually pour this mixture over your bread while using your hands to squeeze gently so everything gets moistened without getting soggy. Aim for moist but not soaked—no liquid should pool at the bottom of the bowl!

Step 7: Transfer to Pan & Bake

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

Step 8: Bake Until Golden Brown

Cover the pan with foil and bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue baking for another 25-35 minutes until it’s golden brown on top. The crispy edges are simply irresistible!

Enjoy every last bite of this homemade Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving—it’s sure to become a staple on your holiday table!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Making the perfect stuffing can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you’ll impress your guests this Thanksgiving!

• Use stale bread for better absorption – While fresh bread is tempting, using slightly stale bread enhances its ability to absorb the flavors of the broth and butter without getting mushy.
• Sauté vegetables until soft – Taking the time to sauté your onions and celery until they’re soft ensures that they blend seamlessly into your stuffing, adding depth of flavor without any crunch.
• Don’t skip the herbs – Fresh herbs are the secret to making your stuffing sing with flavor. Each herb adds a unique taste that brings warmth and comfort to this classic dish.
• Adjust liquid according to bread type – Depending on the type of bread you use, you might need more or less broth. Keep an eye on the texture; it should be moist but not swimming in liquid!
• Let it rest before baking – Allowing the mixture to sit for about 30 minutes before baking lets the flavors meld together beautifully—this step is worth it for maximum flavor!

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Serving your stuffing can be just as enjoyable as making it! Presentation and pairing ideas can elevate this dish from good to unforgettable.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley sprigs – A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich stuffing.
• Sautéed mushrooms – Topping your stuffing with sautéed mushrooms brings an earthy flavor that complements the herbs wonderfully, creating a gourmet touch.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These caramelized veggies provide a lovely crunch and balance out the buttery richness of the stuffing.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic companion that pairs perfectly with stuffing, soaking up all those delicious flavors on your plate.
• Green Bean Casserole – The creamy sauce and crispy toppings in this dish add texture and flavor contrast, making it an ideal pairing for your stuffing.
• Cranberry Sauce – A tangy cranberry sauce can brighten up each bite of stuffing, providing a refreshing burst of sweetness that balances out savory notes.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to create a memorable Thanksgiving feast around this incredible Stuffing Recipe! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time, making your holiday cooking a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Item: Allow the stuffing to cool completely before storing.
• Item: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Item: For best results, store the stuffing without any additional gravy or sauce.

Freezing

• Item: Cool your stuffing completely before freezing.
• Item: Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Item: Label the bag with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Item: Thaw frozen stuffing in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Item: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Item: Spread the stuffing in a greased baking dish, add a splash of broth if needed, cover with foil, and bake for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

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

Can I make this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing mixture a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it on Thanksgiving day for that freshly cooked flavor!

What type of bread works best for Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

You can use any type of bread you like! White bread, ciabatta, Italian, or even baguette work wonderfully. Just ensure it’s slightly stale or toasted to absorb all those yummy flavors.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for the broth in Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

Yes! You can substitute chicken or turkey broth with vegetable broth for a flavorful yet vegetarian-friendly option.

How do I prevent my stuffing from getting soggy?

To avoid soggy stuffing, be sure not to over-soak the bread with broth. The mixture should be moist but not swimming in liquid. Adjust the amount of broth based on how dry your bread is after toasting.

Can I add other ingredients to my Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

Definitely! Feel free to customize your stuffing by adding ingredients like dried cranberries, nuts, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture!

Final Thoughts

I hope this traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe brings warmth and joy to your holiday table! With its buttery flavor and crispy edges, it’s bound to remind you of cherished family gatherings. Enjoy making it as much as you’ll love sharing it with loved ones. Happy cooking!