Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

If you’re looking for the ultimate stuffing recipe for Thanksgiving, you’ve come to the right place! This Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is a cherished tradition in my family, one that brings back warm memories of gathering around the table with loved ones. The buttery aroma wafting through the kitchen and the crispy edges of this stuffing are simply irresistible. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this recipe fits beautifully into any occasion.

What makes this stuffing truly special is the blend of fresh herbs that sing with flavor. It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket of nostalgia, making it the perfect side dish to complement your turkey or vegetarian main course. So grab your apron and let’s get started on this delightful stuffing adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up this crowd-pleaser!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of butter, herbs, and toasty bread creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy digging into this comforting dish.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it the day before and bake it just before mealtime for stress-free entertaining.
• Versatile: Perfect for Thanksgiving, but great any time of year!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome, yet they come together to create something truly magical. Let’s gather what you need for this delightful 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; 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 make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add Some Fruit: Mix in dried cranberries or apples for a hint of sweetness.
• Go Nutty: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or tarragon based on what you have on hand.
• Veggie Boost: Incorporate other vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers to enhance the flavors.

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 them onto a dry pan and bake at 250°F for about an hour. Stir occasionally to ensure even toasting. You want them nice and crispy—not browned—so they can absorb all that delicious broth later!

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While your bread is toasting, chop up your onion until you have about 3 and 1/2 cups. You can use two smaller onions if you don’t have a large one. Then chop your celery into 1/4 inch dice; we want some substance here! This step is key because both vegetables add essential flavor to our stuffing.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Celery

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, add two sticks of butter. Once melted, toss in your chopped onions and celery. Sauté for about 7–10 minutes until soft—this will infuse everything with buttery goodness.

Step 4: Chop Your Herbs

While those veggies are cooking away, take a moment to chop your herbs: parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme. The fresher they are, the more vibrant your stuffing will be!

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all of those toasted bread pieces with the sautéed onion-celery mixture and the chopped herbs. Don’t forget to sprinkle in some kosher salt and black pepper! Stir everything together well so that every piece gets coated with that heavenly buttery mix.

Step 6: Moisten with Broth

In another bowl or measuring cup, whisk together your chicken broth with two eggs. Slowly pour this over your bread mixture while gently squeezing it all together until it’s moist but not soggy. This step ensures every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 7: Bake

Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with softened butter and pour in your stuffing mixture. Spread it evenly across the pan. Cover tightly with foil and pop it in the oven for about 40 minutes at 350°F. After that time has passed, remove the foil and continue baking for another 25–35 minutes until golden brown on top.

And there you have it—a beautiful Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving that will warm hearts around your table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Creating the perfect stuffing is all about attention to detail, and I’m here to help ensure yours turns out beautifully!

• Choose the right bread: Using a sturdy bread like ciabatta or Italian will give your stuffing a great texture. These types of bread can absorb the broth without falling apart, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

• Don’t rush the toasting: Toasting your bread at a low temperature allows it to dry out without browning. This step is essential for achieving that perfect absorbency you want in your stuffing.

• Adjust moisture wisely: When adding broth, do so gradually and test the mix as you go. This helps you achieve that ideal moistness without making it soggy—a crucial balance in stuffing!

• Let it sit before baking: If you have time, allowing the assembled stuffing to sit for 30 minutes before baking can enhance flavor absorption. It gives those herbs and spices time to mingle with the bread.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to customize your stuffing! Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, cranberries, or nuts for added texture and flavor—just be sure they complement the overall dish.

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Serving your Thanksgiving stuffing can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting side dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or sage on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Cranberry sauce: Serve alongside a small bowl of cranberry sauce for a tangy contrast that enhances the flavors of the stuffing.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized make for a colorful and healthy addition.
• Green Bean Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans tossed with toasted almonds and lemon zest provide a fresh crunch that balances out the richness of the stuffing.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing! Their buttery flavor complements the savory notes of your stuffing wonderfully.
• Gravy: A rich turkey gravy drizzled over both your turkey and stuffing brings everything together and adds an irresistible layer of flavor.

By following these tips and serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving meal will be memorable and delicious! Enjoy sharing this warmth with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones on the big day. You can prepare the stuffing in advance and store it properly, ensuring it’s just as delicious when you’re ready to serve.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion the stuffing into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the stuffing in a baking dish, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
• Cover with foil and bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful stuffing recipe!

Can I make this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap.

What type of bread is best for Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

A variety of breads work well, such as white bread, ciabatta, or baguette. Choose a bread that you enjoy and that will soak up the flavors of the broth and herbs beautifully.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in my Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

Yes, vegetable broth is a great substitute if you prefer a vegetarian option. It will add its own unique flavor while keeping the recipe deliciously moist.

How do I prevent my stuffing from becoming too dry?

To avoid dry stuffing, ensure your bread is toasted just enough to absorb moisture without becoming overly hard. Also, don’t hesitate to add extra broth if needed during mixing!

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

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you decide to freeze them, they are best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe as much as I do! It’s filled with love, tradition, and all those wonderful flavors that evoke warm memories around the dinner table. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving or any family gathering, this stuffing will surely be a hit! Happy cooking!