Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

I love this traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe! It is easy, has the BEST buttery flavor, and the most irresistible crispy edges. Celery and onions are combined with all the herbs you love—parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme. If you’re craving that comforting taste reminiscent of grandma’s kitchen, this stuffing recipe is perfect for you! Whether for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering, this dish will elevate your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Flavor: Experience the timeless taste of homemade stuffing that reminds you of family gatherings.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Use: Perfect as a side dish or stuffing for poultry; can be customized with additional ingredients.
• Crispy Edges: Achieve those desired crispy bits around the edges while keeping the center moist.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare in advance and store in the fridge to save time on busy holiday days.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this delicious stuffing recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace for success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables evenly without overcrowding.
• Baking pan: Ensures even cooking and browning of your stuffing.
• Mixing bowls: Helps in combining ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing eggs into the broth smoothly.

Ingredients

• 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)

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 pieces onto a dry baking sheet and bake at 250°F for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. You want to get them nice and toasty without browning.

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables

While your bread is toasting, chop the onion until you have about 3 and 1/2 cups chopped onion. Chop the celery into a 1/4 inch dice. This size adds substance to your stuffing.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F to prepare for baking the stuffing.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 sticks of butter (1 cup). Once melted, add all the celery and onions. Sauté for about 7–10 minutes until soft but not browned.

Step 5: Chop Herbs

Meanwhile, chop up all your herbs: measure out 1/3 cup parsley, 1/4 cup sage, and finely chop 1 tablespoon each of rosemary and thyme.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all toasted bread pieces with chopped herbs. Then add the sautéed onion and celery mixture.

Step 7: Season Mixture

Sprinkle with salt and pepper; stir well to ensure even distribution of flavors. Taste test and adjust seasonings if needed.

Step 8: Mix Broth with Eggs

In another bowl or measuring cup, whisk together 2 cups high-quality chicken broth with two eggs. Gradually pour this mixture over the bread while gently squeezing it to moisten evenly.

Step 9: Prepare Baking Pan

Grease a 9×13 inch pan with about 1 tablespoon softened butter. Pour in the stuffing mixture and spread it evenly across the pan.

Step 10: Bake Covered

Cover the baking pan with foil and bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes. Then remove foil and continue baking for another 25–35 minutes until golden brown on top.

Step 11: Store Leftovers

Any leftovers can be stored in the fridge or frozen for later enjoyment!

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Stuffing is a versatile dish that can complement a variety of main courses and side dishes. Here are some creative ways to serve your delightful stuffing at Thanksgiving.

With Roasted Turkey

• Pair your stuffing with juicy roasted turkey for a classic combo. The flavors meld perfectly, making each bite unforgettable.

As a Side to Beef Roast

• Serve stuffing alongside a savory beef roast. The richness of the meat enhances the buttery flavors of the stuffing.

Stuffed in Bell Peppers

• Get creative by using stuffing to fill bell peppers. Bake them until tender for a unique and colorful presentation.

On a Bed of Greens

• For a lighter option, serve stuffing on a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with vinaigrette for added freshness.

As a Breakfast Casserole

• Leftover stuffing can be transformed into a breakfast casserole. Combine with eggs and cheese for an easy morning meal.

How to Perfect Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Achieving the perfect stuffing takes attention to detail and some helpful tips. Below are essential pointers to elevate your dish.

• Use Stale Bread: Fresh bread can make stuffing soggy. Let your bread sit out for a bit or toast it until dry for better texture.

• Customize Your Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs based on your taste preferences. Personalized seasoning makes all the difference.

• Moisten Gradually: When adding broth, do it slowly and check frequently. You want moist, not soggy, bread for the best texture.

• Let It Rest: Allow the stuffing to sit after mixing before baking. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

• Bake Uncovered for Crispiness: For that sought-after crispy top, bake your stuffing uncovered during the last part of cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Stuffing pairs well with numerous side dishes that enhance its flavors and complete your Thanksgiving feast. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and balance against the rich stuffing.

2. Green Bean Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with almonds add crunch and brightness to your plate.

3. Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce offers a refreshing contrast to the savory stuffing, making each bite more exciting.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring earthy flavors that complement the herbs in your stuffing beautifully.

5. Sweet Potato Casserole: A sweet potato casserole topped with marshmallows adds sweetness and richness, perfect alongside savory dishes.

6. Cornbread Muffins: Light and fluffy cornbread muffins provide an additional bread element without overshadowing the main dish’s flavor profile.

7. Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter gives a delightful crunch and sweetness that pairs well with any Thanksgiving plate.

8. Balsamic Glazed Carrots: Roasted carrots drizzled with balsamic glaze add color and acidity, enhancing both taste and presentation at your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making stuffing can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly using stale bread: Stale bread can ruin the texture. Use freshly toasted bread instead to ensure it absorbs the broth well.
• Ignoring the herbs: Skipping fresh herbs can lead to bland stuffing. Always use fresh parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme for that authentic flavor.
• Over-soaking the bread: Adding too much liquid results in soggy stuffing. Aim for moist bread without pooling liquid at the bottom of the bowl.
• Not pre-cooking the vegetables: Failing to sauté onions and celery can lead to crunchy bites. Always sauté until they are soft for better texture and flavor.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting before baking can leave your stuffing bland. Always adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

• Place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this stuffing recipe.

What is the best bread for Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

A variety of breads like ciabatta, Italian, or even sourdough work well. The key is to use bread that will toast nicely and absorb flavors.

Can I make Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

How do I customize my Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or different herbs based on your taste preferences.

Is it possible to make this stuffing vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

How can I prevent my stuffing from getting too dry?

Monitor the liquid-to-bread ratio carefully while mixing. If needed, add extra broth gradually until you reach the desired moisture level.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is not just easy; it’s also incredibly flavorful with its buttery goodness and crispy edges. It’s versatile enough to adapt with your favorite ingredients or herbs. Give it a try and make it your own!