Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

If you’re looking for a comforting, delicious addition to your Thanksgiving feast, this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is just what you need! This recipe brings together all the classic flavors that remind us of family gatherings and holiday traditions. The combination of toasted bread, savory herbs, and buttery goodness creates a dish that’s hard to resist. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive occasion, this stuffing will undoubtedly impress everyone at the table.

What makes this recipe even more special is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create something truly delightful that will have everyone reminiscing about the good old days. Plus, the crispy edges are simply irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This stuffing comes together quickly without any fuss.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves a good stuffing, and this one is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make ahead convenience: You can prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious flavor: The blend of fresh herbs and buttery goodness takes this stuffing to the next level.
• Versatile side dish: Perfect for Thanksgiving but also great for any family meal or gathering!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Each one plays an important role in creating that perfect stuffing texture and flavor.

For the 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

This stuffing recipe is incredibly flexible! Feel free to mix things up according to your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add some crunch: Stir in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture.
• Mix in fruits: Diced apples or cranberries can add a lovely sweetness to your stuffing.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with different fresh herbs like dill or tarragon for a unique twist.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

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 1 hour, stirring occasionally. You don’t want to brown the bread; just get it nice and toasty. This step is crucial as it allows the bread to absorb the broth later without becoming mushy.

Step 2: Prep Your Veggies

While your bread is toasting, chop your onion until you have about 3 and 1/2 cups chopped onion. Onion brings such great flavor! Next, chop your celery into about a 1/4 inch dice—this size gives it enough presence in the stuffing without overpowering it.

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 all your chopped onions and celery. Sauté for about 7-10 minutes until they are soft but not browned. The butter helps infuse flavor into our veggies while ensuring they soften perfectly.

Step 4: Chop Your Herbs

While the veggies cook, chop up your herbs: you’ll need 1/3 cup parsley, 1/4 cup sage, and tablespoons each of rosemary and thyme. Fresh herbs are key—they bring brightness and depth of flavor that dried ones just can’t match.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all your toasted bread pieces with the chopped herbs. Then add all those sautéed onions and celery from the skillet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper before giving everything a good stir to ensure all those beautiful flavors mix together.

Step 6: Moisten the Mixture

In another bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together your chicken broth with the two eggs. Slowly pour this mixture over the bread mixture in increments while using your hands to gently squeeze and moisten everything—this ensures every bite is flavorful but not soggy!

Step 7: Transfer & Bake

Grease a 9×13 inch pan with softened butter before pouring in your stuffing mixture. Spread it evenly across the pan. Cover tightly with foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 40 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue baking for another 25-35 minutes until it’s golden brown on top.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Once baked to perfection, let it cool slightly before serving so it holds its shape well on plates. Enjoy every delicious bite of this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving—it’s sure to become a beloved tradition at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Making stuffing can be a delightful experience, and these pro tips will help you achieve the best results!

• Use Stale Bread: If you have time, let your bread sit out overnight to dry. Stale bread absorbs more broth and flavors without becoming mushy, giving your stuffing that perfect texture.

• Customize Herbs: Don’t be afraid to play with herbs! While parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme create a classic flavor profile, you can add others like dill or tarragon for a unique twist that reflects your taste.

• Add More Vegetables: Consider incorporating additional vegetables like carrots or mushrooms. This not only adds flavor but also increases the nutritional value of your stuffing.

• Don’t Skimp on Butter: The butter is key to achieving that rich flavor and crispy edges. Make sure you’re generous with it during the sautéing process—this is what gives your stuffing that indulgent taste!

• Taste as You Go: Always taste your mixture before baking! This allows you to adjust seasoning levels according to your preference, ensuring a dish that’s just right for you and your guests.

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Presentation can elevate your Thanksgiving stuffing from simple side dish to star attraction! Here are some ideas for serving this delicious recipe.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herb Sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh parsley or sage on top not only enhance the dish visually but also add an aromatic touch.
• Cranberry Sauce: A small dollop of cranberry sauce can provide a beautiful contrast in flavor and color, balancing the savory stuffing with a hint of sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes brings color and nutrition to your table while complementing the flavors of the stuffing.
• Green Beans Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans topped with toasted almonds offer a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the softness of stuffing.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that pairs beautifully with gravy or alongside the stuffing for a hearty meal.
• Butternut Squash Soup: A warm bowl of butternut squash soup as an appetizer sets a cozy tone for the meal and complements the flavors of Thanksgiving.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re all set to create an unforgettable Thanksgiving feast centered around this amazing Stuffing Recipe! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free holiday. Here are some tips for storing and reheating your delicious stuffing.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It will last up to 3-4 days when properly stored.
• To avoid drying out, consider adding a splash of broth before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Allow the stuffing to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffing overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the stuffing in a covered dish.
• Heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through. Add a bit of broth if it seems dry.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this flavorful stuffing recipe!

Can I make this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this stuffing a day in advance. Just assemble and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake!

What bread works best for Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

You can use any type of bread, such as white bread, ciabatta, or baguette. The key is to ensure it’s toasted well so that it absorbs all those delicious flavors.

How do I adjust the seasoning in my Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

Taste your mixture before baking! If you feel it needs more flavor, simply add more herbs or salt to suit your palate.

Can I add other ingredients to this stuffing recipe?

Certainly! Feel free to customize by adding ingredients like nuts, cranberries, or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.

Is this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving suitable for vegetarians?

Yes! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it uses vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It’s packed with flavor without any meat products!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe! It captures that comforting taste we all cherish during the holidays. Whether you stick to Grandma’s classic style or put your own twist on it, I know you’ll create something truly special. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!