Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

If you’re looking for the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving feast, this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is just what you need! It’s cozy, nostalgic, and bursting with flavor—the kind of dish that fills your home with warmth and reminds you of family gatherings. With its buttery goodness, crispy edges, and a delightful mix of herbs, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a special holiday celebration, this stuffing recipe is a winner every time!

What makes this recipe truly special is its ability to evoke memories of grandma’s kitchen. The combination of fresh herbs and sautéed vegetables creates an aroma that will have everyone gathering around the dining table in anticipation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious stuffing without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves stuffing! Its rich flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the stuffing the night before and bake it just before serving—easy peasy!
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of butter, herbs, and veggies creates an unforgettable taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This stuffing recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need for that mouthwatering flavor!

• 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

The beauty of this stuffing recipe lies in its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Nuts: Stir in some chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
• Incorporate Fruits: Dried cranberries or apples can add a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
• Swap the Bread: Try using whole grain or cornbread instead of traditional white bread for a different texture and flavor.
• Mix in Veggies: Feel free to add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.

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 the pieces onto a dry pan and bake at 250°F for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This step helps achieve that perfect toasted texture which allows the bread to soak up all the delicious broth later on!

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables

While your bread is toasting, chop the onion until you have about 3 and 1/2 cups. Onion brings so much flavor to this dish! Next, chop the celery into about a 1/4 inch dice; we want these pieces hearty enough to stand out in our stuffing.

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 the chopped celery and onions. Sauté them for about 7-10 minutes until they’re soft but not browned. This step infuses our stuffing with buttery goodness right from the start!

Step 4: Chop the Herbs

While those veggies are cooking away, take some time to chop up your herbs—parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme—until finely chopped. Fresh herbs bring bright flavors that elevate this stuffing recipe.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, add all those toasted bread pieces along with your chopped herbs and cooked onion-celery mixture. Sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper then stir it all together until well combined.

Step 6: Add Broth Mixture

In another bowl or large glass measuring cup, whisk together 2 cups of high-quality chicken broth with the eggs. Slowly pour this mixture over your bread mixture in increments while using your hands to squeeze and moisten the bread evenly. Remember: we want moist—not soggy—bread here!

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Grease a 9×13 inch pan with softened butter. Pour the stuffing into the pan and spread it evenly across. If you’d like to prepare ahead of time, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight before baking.

Step 8: Bake!

Cover your stuffing with foil and bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue baking for another 25-35 minutes until it’s golden brown on top—just how you like it!

Step 9: Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in the fridge or freeze them for later enjoyment!

This Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is bound to become part of your family traditions! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Making the perfect stuffing is all about the little details, and these tips will help you elevate your dish to a whole new level!

• Use day-old bread: Stale bread absorbs moisture better, resulting in a fluffier texture. If you forgot to prepare in advance, lightly toast fresh bread as instructed; just make sure it’s not too brown.
• Don’t rush the sautéing: Taking your time with the onions and celery allows them to develop their flavors fully. This step enriches the overall taste of your stuffing, making it more delicious.
• Experiment with herbs: While parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme are traditional, feel free to add your favorites or use dried herbs! This personal touch can really make the dish shine.
• Moisten gradually: When adding broth to your bread mixture, do it slowly. This way, you can ensure the stuffing is moist but not soggy. Remember, you want each piece of bread to soak in that buttery goodness!
• Let it rest: Allowing your stuffing to sit for a few minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together. Plus, it’ll be easier to serve once it’s had a moment to settle.

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Serving your stuffing creatively can enhance its appeal and make your Thanksgiving table truly memorable. Here are some ideas:

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or sage on top adds color and freshness right before serving.
• Cranberry sauce: A dollop of cranberry sauce on the side provides a sweet contrast to the savory stuffing and adds a festive touch.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized pair beautifully with stuffing for a colorful plate.
• Green Bean Casserole: This creamy classic brings a comforting texture that balances well with the richness of your stuffing.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit at Thanksgiving. Their buttery flavor complements the savory notes of stuffing nicely.
• Gravy: A rich turkey or vegetable gravy poured over both stuffing and mashed potatoes ties all those delicious flavors together beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving table will be filled with warmth and joy—just like Grandma used to do! Enjoy every bite of this delightful stuffing recipe!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends while ensuring a delicious dish is ready when it’s time to eat.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Make sure the stuffing has cooled down before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place stuffing in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through. You can remove the foil during the last 10 minutes for a crispy top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this stuffing recipe that might help guide you!

Can I use different types of bread for the Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

Absolutely! You can use any bread you like, such as sourdough, whole wheat, or even gluten-free options. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold up to the broth.

How can I make this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving vegetarian?

You can easily make this stuffing vegetarian by substituting vegetable broth for chicken or turkey broth. The flavors will remain delicious!

Can I prepare this stuffing ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffing a day ahead and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it tightly until you’re ready to cook.

What should I serve with my Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

This stuffing pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and a variety of sauces like cranberry or gravy.

How do I ensure my stuffing stays moist?

To keep your stuffing moist, make sure you don’t skimp on broth and mix well until all pieces are evenly moistened—just avoid pooling liquid at the bottom!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe! It brings back memories of family gatherings and fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Enjoy every bite with loved ones around your table, and don’t hesitate to try new variations to make it your own. Happy cooking!