Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

If you’re looking for a classic and comforting dish to grace your Thanksgiving table, this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is the one! It brings back memories of family gatherings and the warmth of home-cooked meals. With its buttery flavor and crispy edges, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. This stuffing isn’t just for Thanksgiving, though; it’s perfect for busy weeknights or any gathering where you want to impress your friends and family with a hearty side.

What makes this recipe so special is how it captures that nostalgic taste we all crave. The combination of fresh herbs, sautéed onions, and crunchy celery creates a delightful medley of flavors that reminds you of grandma’s kitchen. So let’s dive into this beloved recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: Packed with herbs like parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme, this stuffing bursts with flavor.
• Simple to Prepare: With easy-to-follow steps, even novice cooks can whip up this dish without any stress.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves stuffing! It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with various main courses.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready—perfect for busy holiday cooking!
• Flexible Ingredients: Customize it based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome—perfect for creating a cozy dish that warms the heart. Gather everything you need for this delightful stuffing recipe:

• 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 tailor it to your taste buds or dietary needs:

• Add nuts or dried fruit: Toss in some chopped walnuts or dried cranberries for an extra crunch and sweetness.
• Incorporate sausage alternatives: Use plant-based sausage or diced mushrooms to give it a savory kick without meat.
• Use different bread types: Experiment with sourdough or cornbread for unique flavors and textures.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

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 them onto a dry pan and bake at 250°F for about an hour, stirring occasionally. The goal here is not to brown the bread but to get it nice and toasty—this will help it absorb all that delicious broth later on!

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

While your bread is toasting away, chop up your onion until you have about 3 and 1/2 cups. Onion adds amazing flavor! Then chop the celery into a 1/4 inch dice. You want substantial pieces here since they’ll add great texture to 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 in your chopped onions and celery. Sauté them for about 7-10 minutes until they’re soft but not browned. The butter will help carry all those lovely flavors into our bread!

Step 4: Chop Your Herbs

While your veggies cook down, take this time to chop up your herbs—parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme. Fresh herbs are key here; they bring such vibrant flavors that make this stuffing truly special.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Once your bread is toasted and veggies are sautéed, toss all the toasted bread pieces into a large bowl along with the chopped herbs and onion-celery mixture. Sprinkle everything with salt and pepper before giving it a good stir—make sure everything is well mixed!

Step 6: Moisten the Bread

In another bowl or measuring cup, combine 2 cups of high-quality chicken broth with the two eggs. Whisk them together until well blended. Slowly pour this mixture over the bread in increments while using your hands to squeeze and moisten everything evenly. The goal is moist but not soggy!

Step 7: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease the sides and bottom of a 9×13 inch pan with softened butter. Pour the stuffing mixture into the pan and spread it out evenly. If desired, cover tightly with foil before refrigerating overnight—this can save time on Thanksgiving day!

Step 8: Bake Your Stuffing

Cover your dish with foil again before placing it in the preheated oven at 350°F for about 40 minutes. After that time has passed, remove the foil so that you can continue baking for an additional 25–35 minutes until it’s golden brown on top.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Once baked to perfection, let it cool slightly before serving alongside your favorite holiday dishes! And don’t forget—the leftovers (if there are any) store wonderfully in the fridge or can even be frozen for future enjoyment.

Now you’re ready to enjoy a delightful stuffing recipe that’s sure to impress!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Making the perfect stuffing can transform your Thanksgiving meal into an unforgettable feast, so here are some tips to ensure your stuffing turns out beautifully!

• Use stale bread: Stale or day-old bread absorbs broth better, ensuring a moist and flavorful stuffing without becoming soggy.
• Don’t rush the sautéing: Taking your time to sauté the onions and celery until they are soft allows their flavors to develop fully, enhancing the overall taste of your stuffing.
• Taste as you go: Always taste your mixture before baking! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preferences; no one knows your flavor profile better than you.
• Consider add-ins: Feel free to mix in extras like dried cranberries or nuts for added texture and flavor. These ingredients can bring a delightful twist to traditional stuffing.
• Let it rest: If possible, let your stuffing sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve while maintaining its structure.

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Serving your stuffing beautifully can make it even more enticing. Here are some creative ways to present this festive dish that will surely impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or sage on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Cranberry sauce: A small bowl of cranberry sauce on the side adds a bright contrast in flavor that complements the savory stuffing perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and squash adds vibrant colors and a healthy balance to the meal.
• Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish with creamy mushroom sauce and crispy onions offers a comforting combination of flavors that pairs wonderfully with stuffing.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes drizzled with gravy create a hearty side that complements the buttery goodness of your stuffing.
• Sweet Potato Casserole: Sweet potatoes topped with pecans or marshmallows provide a sweet contrast, making for an enjoyable taste experience alongside savory dishes.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set for an unforgettable Thanksgiving feast centered around this amazing Stuffing Recipe! Enjoy sharing this comforting dish with family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Stuffing Recipe for Thanksgiving is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more quality moments with your loved ones during the holiday. Here’s how to store it properly so that it stays fresh and delicious.

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

• Make sure the stuffing is fully cooled before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffing in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the stuffing in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• For extra crispiness, uncover for the last 10 minutes of heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious stuffing recipe!

Can I use different bread types for this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of bread like sourdough, whole wheat, or even gluten-free options. Each will give your stuffing a unique flavor!

How do I adjust this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving for a smaller gathering?

To make less stuffing, simply halve the ingredients. This recipe is quite forgiving, so you can easily scale it down while keeping the same great taste!

Can I make this stuffing without using eggs?

Yes! If you want to skip the eggs, you can substitute them with a flaxseed egg or simply add more broth to help bind everything together.

How long can I keep leftovers from my Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you freeze it properly, you can keep it for 2-3 months!

Is there a vegetarian option for this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

Certainly! Just replace chicken or turkey broth with vegetable broth. The rest of the ingredients remain unchanged for a hearty vegetarian stuffing.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Stuffing Recipe for Thanksgiving brings warmth and joy to your holiday table just like it does in my home! The rich flavors and crispy edges are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations! Happy cooking!