Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

If you’re looking for a stuffing recipe that captures the essence of Thanksgiving, you’ve come to the right place! This Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is not just any stuffing; it’s a dish filled with love, warmth, and all the flavors that remind you of family gatherings. With its buttery goodness and crispy edges, this stuffing is sure to become a staple on your holiday table. Perfect for cozy family dinners or busy weeknights, it’s easy to whip up and absolutely delicious!

What makes this recipe special? It’s all about the fresh herbs and perfectly sautéed onions and celery that bring everything together. Whether you’re serving it alongside turkey or enjoying it on its own, this stuffing will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients: This stuffing uses everyday pantry staples that are easy to find.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of butter, herbs, and veggies creates an irresistible taste.
• Family favorite: Everyone loves a classic stuffing that reminds them of home-cooked meals.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare it in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready!
• Versatile dish: Enjoy it not only at Thanksgiving but also for any gathering or comforting dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful stuffing. Each item adds its own unique touch to create a dish that’s bursting with 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

One of the best things about this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Incorporate fruits: Dried cranberries or apple chunks can add a hint of sweetness.
• Try different herbs: Experiment with thyme or tarragon for a twist on flavor.
• Make it vegetarian: Swap out chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep it plant-based.

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. We want them nice and toasted—not browned—to soak up all that delicious broth later. Trust me; starting with crispy bread makes all the difference in texture!

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

While your bread is toasting away, chop up your onion and celery. You’ll need about 3 and 1/2 cups of chopped onion—don’t skimp here; onions add so much flavor! Dice your celery into about a 1/4 inch size—this gives it a delightful crunch without overpowering the other flavors.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Celery

Preheat your oven to 350°F while melting 2 sticks of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add your chopped celery and onions and sauté them for about 7-10 minutes until they’re soft but not browned. The butter helps infuse those lovely flavors into our veggies!

Step 4: Chop the Herbs

Now let’s bring some freshness into our stuffing! Chop up your parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme. These herbs are essential; they really elevate the dish from ordinary to extraordinary!

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all those toasted bread pieces with the sautéed onion-celery mixture and chopped herbs. Sprinkle in the kosher salt and black pepper—make sure everything is well mixed so each bite is packed with flavor!

Step 6: Moisten with Broth

In another bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together 2 cups of chicken broth with your eggs. Slowly pour this mixture over the bread mixture while using your hands to gently squeeze and moisten everything together. The goal is moist but not soggy—no one wants pooling liquid at the bottom!

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Grease a 9×13 inch pan with softened butter before spreading the stuffing evenly into the pan. At this point, feel free to cover tightly with plastic wrap if you want to refrigerate overnight—how convenient is that?

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Cover your stuffing with foil and bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes. Then remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 25-35 minutes until it’s golden brown and crispy on top—the way we all love it!

And there you have it! A beautiful Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every bite—and happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Creating the perfect stuffing is all about attention to detail and a little love, so here are some tips to help you achieve stuffing perfection!

• Choose the Right Bread: Different breads absorb flavors differently. A rustic bread like ciabatta or baguette will provide a wonderful texture and soak up all that delicious broth beautifully.

• Don’t Rush the Toasting: Toasting your bread slowly at a low temperature ensures it gets crispy without browning too much. This gives your stuffing the perfect base to absorb moisture without becoming soggy.

• Taste as You Go: After combining your ingredients, taste the mixture before baking. Adjust the seasonings according to your preference – after all, this is your Thanksgiving feast!

• Use High-Quality Broth: The broth you choose can elevate your stuffing’s flavor significantly. Opt for a high-quality chicken or turkey broth for richer taste.

• Let It Sit Before Baking: If you have time, let your prepared stuffing sit for about 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste!

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Serving this delightful stuffing is just as important as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this dish beautifully at your Thanksgiving table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some extra chopped parsley or sage on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Cranberry Sauce: A small dollop of cranberry sauce on top adds a sweet tang that complements the savory flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and squash roasted with olive oil and herbs brings a healthy balance to your meal while adding vibrant colors to the plate.

• Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish combines green beans with creamy mushroom sauce topped with crispy fried onions, providing a crunchy contrast to the soft stuffing.

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit! They pair wonderfully with gravy drizzled over both them and the stuffing.

• Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet honey-glazed carrots add a delightful sweetness that balances nicely with savory dishes. Plus, they look beautiful on any table!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving dinner will not only be delicious but also visually appealing! Enjoy every moment of this wonderful holiday!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Stuffing Recipe for Thanksgiving is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance, which saves time and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• After baking, let the stuffing cool completely.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the stuffing in a baking dish, cover with foil, and reheat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious stuffing recipe!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of bread like sourdough, whole grain, or even gluten-free varieties. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold up to the broth.

How can I make this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving vegetarian?

To make this stuffing vegetarian-friendly, simply substitute the chicken or turkey broth with vegetable broth. It will still be packed with flavor from all those delicious herbs!

Can I prepare this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What herbs work best in this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

The classic combination of parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme works beautifully. However, feel free to add other herbs you enjoy like marjoram or oregano for a unique twist!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this traditional Stuffing Recipe for Thanksgiving! It’s not just about the ingredients; it’s about sharing warmth and love during the holidays. Enjoy every bite as you savor those crispy edges and buttery goodness. Happy cooking, and may your Thanksgiving be filled with laughter and great food!