Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

I love this traditional Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving! It is easy, has the BEST buttery flavor, and the most irresistible crispy edges. Celery and onions are put together with all the herbs you love, sing it with me now: parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme. Sometimes you just want it to taste exactly like grandma’s. This recipe is it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of butter, herbs, and sautéed veggies creates a rich taste that will impress your guests.
• Easy to Prepare: This stuffing comes together quickly with straightforward steps, perfect for busy holiday cooking.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like nuts or dried fruits for a personal touch.
• Great for Leftovers: Enjoy this stuffing not just on Thanksgiving but as a delightful side dish any time.
• Crispy Edges: Baking it just right gives you that coveted crispy texture on the outside while keeping it moist inside.

Tools and Preparation

To make this stuffing recipe successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure everything is done properly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables evenly and thoroughly.
• Baking pan: Offers ample space to bake the stuffing evenly for that crunchy top layer.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Knife and cutting board: Necessary for chopping veggies and herbs accurately.

Ingredients

For the Bread Base

• 1 pound bread (white bread, ciabatta, Italian, baguette, etc.)

For the Aromatic Mixture

• 1 cup butter (2 sticks)
• 1 large onion (about 3 and 1/2 cups chopped)
• 2 cups celery (1/4 inch dice)

For the Fresh Herbs

• 1/3 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1/4 cup fresh sage (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped very fine)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

For Seasoning

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For Moisture

• 2 cups high quality chicken/turkey broth (plus 1/2 cup more if necessary)

For Binding

• 2 large eggs

For Greasing

• 1 tablespoon butter (softened, for greasing pan)

How to Make Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Begin by tearing or cutting your loaf of bread into bite-size pieces, about 1-2 inches. Spread pieces onto a dry pan and bake at 250 F for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. You don’t want to brown the bread; just get it nice and toasty (the better to absorb broth!). I don’t recommend letting your bread sit out overnight as it turns stale; we want crispy and toasty bread.

Step 2: Chop Veggies

While your bread is toasting, prep the veggies:
– Chop the onion into about 3 and 1/2 cups.
– Dice the celery into about a 1/4 inch size.

You need celery pieces to be substantial for texture in your stuffing.

Step 3: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 5: Chop Fresh Herbs

Chop up:
– 1/3 cup parsley
– 1/4 cup sage
– 1 tablespoon each rosemary and thyme

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, add all toasted bread pieces along with chopped herbs from Step 5. Pour in onion and celery mixture from Step 4.

Step 7: Season

Sprinkle with:
– 2 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper

Stir together thoroughly ensuring even distribution of butter. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Step 8: Mix Broth with Eggs

In another bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together:
– 2 cups high quality chicken broth
– 2 large eggs

Slowly pour this mixture over the bread in increments while using your hands to squeeze and moisten the bread until fully absorbed without pooling liquid at the bottom.

Step 9: Prepare Baking Pan

Grease sides and bottom of a baking pan with about 1 tablespoon softened butter. Pour stuffing mixture into the pan spreading evenly.

Step 10: Bake Stuffing

Cover with foil and bake at 350 F for about 40 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for another additional 25-35 minutes until desired browning occurs.

Step 11: Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers in the fridge or freeze baked leftovers successfully for later enjoyment!

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Serving your stuffing can elevate your Thanksgiving meal to new heights. This classic side dish pairs beautifully with various main courses and adds a delightful touch to your holiday spread.

Pair with Roasted Chicken

• A succulent roasted chicken complements the rich flavors of the stuffing, creating a harmonious balance on the plate.

Add a Side of Cranberry Sauce

• The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the buttery stuffing, enhancing each bite and adding a burst of color.

Serve with Gravy

• Drizzling warm gravy over stuffing brings extra moisture and flavor, making it even more irresistible.

Accompany with Green Beans

• Crisp-tender green beans add a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the stuffing.

Include a Fresh Salad

• A light salad featuring mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty stuffing.

How to Perfect Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Perfecting your Thanksgiving stuffing is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips for achieving stuffing perfection.

• Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread absorbs broth better, leading to a more flavorful and moist stuffing.
• Don’t Skip the Butter: Generous amounts of butter ensure richness and crispy edges that everyone loves.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or herbs based on your preferences for the best flavor.
• Keep it Moist: Aim for moist but not soggy. Gradually add broth until the bread is just soaked but not swimming in liquid.
• Bake Covered Then Uncovered: Start baking covered to steam the stuffing, then uncover it for that perfect golden-brown finish.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

When planning your Thanksgiving feast, consider these fantastic side dishes that pair wonderfully with your stuffing recipe.

1. Roasted Turkey: The classic centerpiece of any Thanksgiving table, roasted turkey offers savory flavors that complement stuffing beautifully.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting addition that pairs well with both turkey and rich gravy.
3. Sweet Potato Casserole: This sweet dish balances out savory flavors with its natural sweetness, making it a family favorite.
4. Brussels Sprouts: Roasted or sautéed Brussels sprouts add an earthy note and crunchy texture that enhance your meal.
5. Macaroni and Cheese: A creamy mac and cheese is always a hit, providing a cheesy contrast to the herby stuffing.
6. Cornbread: Slightly sweet cornbread adds another layer of flavor and texture while being easy to prepare alongside other dishes.
7. Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots bring color and natural sweetness to your plate, balancing out rich flavors deliciously.
8. Baked Squash: Roasted squash offers warmth and sweetness, making it an excellent seasonal side dish choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Stuffing can be a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving feast, but certain mistakes can take away from its charm. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring bread quality: Using stale or low-quality bread leads to a soggy stuffing. Opt for fresh, artisanal bread to ensure the best texture and flavor.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Sautéing vegetables too long can result in mushiness. Cook them just until softened, maintaining some texture for a better bite.
• Skipping the seasoning: A bland stuffing is disappointing. Don’t forget to add enough salt and herbs, as they enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Not adjusting broth amounts: If you use too much broth, you may end up with a wet stuffing. Add broth gradually and check for moisture levels while mixing.
• Baking without covering: Baking uncovered initially can lead to overly crispy edges while leaving the inside undercooked. Cover with foil for even cooking before browning the top.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow stuffing to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain texture.

Freezing Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

• Freeze stuffing in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat covered with foil for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high in microwave-safe containers for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a small amount of broth in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding this stuffing recipe:

Can I make Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving.

What type of bread works best for stuffing?

A variety of breads like ciabatta, Italian, or white bread works well. Choose one that has a sturdy crust for better texture.

How do I customize my Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

Feel free to add ingredients like dried fruits, nuts, or different herbs according to your taste preferences.

Is this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving gluten-free?

For a gluten-free version, substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread options available in stores.

Final Thoughts

This traditional Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is not only flavorful but also versatile enough to suit various palates. Customize it with your favorite ingredients or keep it classic; either way, it’s sure to be a hit at your holiday table. Enjoy creating lasting memories with this delightful dish!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving, a must-have side dish for your holiday feast. This traditional stuffing is packed with the rich taste of sautéed onions and celery, complemented by fresh herbs like parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme. The buttery breadcrumbs achieve a delightful crispy edge while staying moist on the inside, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Customize it with your favorite additions such as nuts or dried fruits to make it uniquely yours. Whether served alongside roasted turkey or enjoyed as leftovers, this stuffing will quickly become a cherished staple on your holiday table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound bread (ciabatta or Italian)
• 1 cup butter
• 1 large onion
• 2 cups celery
• 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 broth
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon butter (softened, for greasing pan)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 250°F. Tear bread into pieces and bake for 1 hour until toasted.
2. Chop onion and celery into small pieces.
3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat; sauté onion and celery for about 7-10 minutes.
4. Mix toasted bread with sautéed veggies and fresh herbs in a large bowl.
5. Season with salt and pepper; mix in broth and eggs until well combined.
6. Grease a baking pan; spread stuffing evenly and cover with foil.
7. Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes covered, then remove foil and bake for an additional 25-35 minutes until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 90mg