Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

If you’re looking for the perfect stuffing recipe for Thanksgiving, you’ve come to the right place! This Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is a cherished family favorite that brings warmth and joy to every holiday gathering. With its buttery flavor and crispy edges, it’s like a big warm hug on a plate. It has all the classic flavors you remember from your childhood, making it a must-have at any festive table.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a large family feast, this stuffing fits right in. It’s easy to whip up and can even be made ahead of time, which is always a win in my book. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs and buttery goodness creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the comforting flavors of this traditional stuffing.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven just before serving for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This stuffing is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You probably have most of these items in your kitchen already!

• 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 parts about this stuffing recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add some crunch: Mix in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture.
• Incorporate fruits: Dried cranberries or apples can bring a sweet twist to your stuffing.
• Go vegetarian: Swap out chicken broth with vegetable broth for a delicious meatless option.
• Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

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 one hour, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial because we want our bread nice and toasty but not browned—this helps it absorb the broth better later on!

Step 2: Prepare the Veggies

While the bread is toasting, chop your onion until you have about 3 and 1/2 cups. Use two small onions if needed; onions bring so much flavor! Then chop the celery into about a quarter-inch dice. We want substantial pieces here to give our stuffing that delightful crunch.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt two sticks of butter. Once melted, add all your chopped celery and onions. Sauté them for about seven to ten minutes until they’re soft but not browned. The butter is key here; it helps soak into our bread later.

Step 4: Chop Your Herbs

While you wait for your veggies to sauté, chop up all your fresh herbs: parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme. The fresh herbs are what really elevate this dish—trust me!

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, add all the toasted bread pieces along with the sautéed onion and celery mixture. Sprinkle in your chopped herbs along with kosher salt and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to ensure that butter gets evenly distributed throughout.

Step 6: Moisten the Bread

In another bowl or large glass measuring cup, whisk together two cups of high-quality chicken broth with two eggs. Slowly pour this mixture over the bread while using your hands to squeeze and moisten it all together. Be careful not to make it too soggy; we want moist bread without any liquid pooling at the bottom!

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Grease a 9×13 inch pan with softened butter and pour your stuffing mixture into it, spreading it out evenly. Cover tightly with foil and bake at 350°F for about forty minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another twenty-five to thirty-five minutes until it’s perfectly brown and crispy on top.

And there you have it! This Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving will surely become a treasured part of your holiday celebrations just as it has been in mine!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Creating the perfect stuffing is all about the details, and I’ve got some pro tips to help you achieve that classic flavor and texture!

• Use Day-Old Bread: If you have bread that’s a day or two old, it’s perfect! Day-old bread has lost moisture, allowing it to absorb more broth without becoming mushy.

• Experiment with Broths: For added depth of flavor, consider using homemade vegetable broth. It enhances the overall taste while keeping the dish meat-free.

• Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Take your time when sautéing the onions and celery. Cooking them until they’re soft but not browned releases their natural sweetness and infuses your stuffing with delicious flavor.

• Adjust Liquid Gradually: When adding broth, do it gradually to avoid oversaturating. The right balance ensures your stuffing is moist yet holds its shape.

• Bake Uncovered for Crispiness: For those irresistible crispy edges, bake your stuffing uncovered during the last 25-35 minutes. This way, it develops a beautiful golden crust!

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Presentation can elevate your Thanksgiving stuffing from simply delicious to spectacular! Here are some ideas to make your dish shine at the table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle a handful of chopped fresh parsley or sage on top right before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Cranberry Sauce: A small scoop of tangy cranberry sauce on the side adds an exciting contrast that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
• Chopped Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts sprinkled over the top provide a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft stuffing.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic are a classic pairing that balances well with stuffing’s texture and flavors.
• Green Bean Casserole: This comforting dish features tender green beans in a creamy mushroom sauce topped with crunchy fried onions—perfect for adding variety to your meal.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a slightly sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory stuffing.
• Butternut Squash Soup: A warm bowl of butternut squash soup provides a cozy start to your Thanksgiving feast while echoing autumnal flavors.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re on track for a memorable Thanksgiving dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy making this stuffing recipe part of your holiday traditions!

Make Ahead and Storage

This stuffing recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, and enjoy it whenever you want. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Item: Allow the stuffing to cool completely before storing.
• Item: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Item: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Item: Cool the stuffing completely before freezing.
• Item: Place in freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to remove excess air.
• Item: Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Item: Thaw frozen stuffing overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Item: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Item: Place the stuffing in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

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

Can I use a different type of bread for this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

Absolutely! You can experiment with various types of bread such as cornbread, whole wheat bread, or even gluten-free options. Just keep in mind that different breads may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

How can I make this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, simply substitute chicken or turkey broth with vegetable broth. It will still be delicious and packed with flavor!

Can I prepare this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving a day in advance?

Yes! This stuffing can be made ahead. Just prepare it up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh on Thanksgiving Day for optimal flavor.

What herbs work best in Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

While parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme are traditional choices that create a classic flavor profile, feel free to mix in other herbs like oregano or marjoram based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this special Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving as much as I do! It’s filled with love, flavor, and those warm memories that come from gathering around the table with family. Don’t hesitate to try it out; I’m sure it’ll become a cherished dish at your holiday celebrations. Happy cooking!