Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

I love this traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe! It is easy, has the BEST buttery flavor, and the most irresistible crispy edges. Celery and onions are put together with all the herbs you love, sing it with me now: parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme. Sometimes you just want it to taste exactly like grandma’s. This recipe is it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor – The combination of fresh herbs and sautéed veggies creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen.
• Crispy Edges – Enjoy the perfect texture with crispy edges that contrast beautifully with the moist stuffing inside.
• Versatile Side Dish – Perfect for Thanksgiving, holiday gatherings, or even a cozy family dinner.
• Easy to Prepare – This stuffing recipe is simple enough for novice cooks while impressing seasoned chefs.
• Customizable Ingredients – Feel free to add your favorite seasonal vegetables or nuts for an extra twist.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing your Thanksgiving stuffing easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking pan (9×13 inches)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet – Ideal for sautéing vegetables while ensuring even cooking without overcrowding.
• Baking pan – A good quality pan helps achieve those sought-after crispy edges when baking your stuffing.
• Mixing bowls – Having multiple bowls allows for better organization during prep, making it easier to mix ingredients without mess.

Ingredients

Bread Base

• 1 pound bread (white bread, ciabatta, Italian, baguette, etc.)

Vegetable Mix

• 1 cup butter (2 sticks)
• 1 large onion (about 3 and 1/2 cups chopped)
• 2 cups celery (1/4 inch dice)

Fresh Herbs

• 1/3 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1/4 cup fresh sage (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped very fine)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

Seasonings & Broth

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups high-quality chicken/turkey broth (plus 1/2 cup more if necessary)

Egg Binder

• 2 large eggs

Greasing Agent

• 1 tablespoon butter (softened, for greasing pan)

How to Make Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Step 1: Prepare Your Bread

Begin by tearing or cutting your loaf of bread into bite-size pieces, about 1-2 inches. Spread 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 will help absorb the broth later.

Step 2: Prep Your Vegetables

While your bread is toasting, chop the onion until you have about 3 and 1/2 cups. Use two small onions if needed. Chop the celery into about a 1/4 inch dice; larger pieces work best in stuffing for added texture.

Step 3: Sauté Veggies

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 sticks of butter. Once melted, add all of the chopped celery and onions. Sauté for about 7-10 minutes until soft but not browned.

Step 4: Chop Herbs

While the veggies are cooking, chop your herbs: 1/3 cup parsley, 1/4 cup sage, and 1 tablespoon each of rosemary and thyme.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, add all toasted bread pieces along with the sautéed onion and celery mixture. Incorporate the chopped herbs evenly throughout.

Step 6: Season It Up

Sprinkle in the kosher salt and black pepper. Stir everything well to ensure that butter is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 7: Add Broth & Eggs

In another bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth and eggs. Gradually pour this mixture over the bread while using your hands to squeeze and moisten it without soaking it completely.

Step 8: Prepare Baking Pan

Grease a 9×13 inch pan with softened butter. Transfer the stuffing mixture into this pan and spread it evenly.

Step 9: Bake

Cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees F for about 40 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 25-35 minutes until browned and crispy on top.

Step 10: Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers in the fridge or freeze baked portions for later enjoyment!

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Serving your stuffing can elevate your Thanksgiving meal, making it a centerpiece that everyone enjoys. Here are some delightful ways to serve your Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving.

Classic Pairing

• Turkey: Roast turkey is a traditional pairing that complements the rich flavors of stuffing beautifully.
• Gravy: Drizzle some savory gravy over the stuffing to add moisture and enhance its taste.

Unique Twists

• Stuffed Peppers: Use leftover stuffing to fill bell peppers for a colorful and tasty side dish.
• Casserole Style: Layer the stuffing with cooked vegetables and cheese for a heartier casserole option.

Flavor Enhancements

• Cranberry Sauce: Serve alongside homemade cranberry sauce for a sweet and tangy contrast.
• Herb Butter: Add a dollop of herb-infused butter on top just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Perfect Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Creating the perfect stuffing takes practice and attention to detail. Consider these tips to ensure your Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is flawless.

• Choose the Right Bread: Opt for day-old bread or artisan varieties; they absorb broth better and provide great texture.
• Don’t Skip the Toasting: Toast your bread pieces beforehand to enhance their flavor and help them soak up liquid without becoming mushy.
• Use Quality Broth: A high-quality chicken or turkey broth makes a significant difference in flavor, so choose one you enjoy sipping.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your mixture before baking; this will allow you to adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed for your personal preference.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Complement your Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving with these fantastic side dishes that round out your holiday meal.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes brings color and nutrition.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes topped with butter can be a comforting addition that pairs well with stuffing.
3. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with almonds provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with soft stuffing.
4. Sweet Potato Casserole: This dish adds sweetness and is often topped with marshmallows or pecans for an indulgent touch.
5. Cauliflower Gratin: A cheesy baked cauliflower dish offers a rich flavor that complements the savory stuffing perfectly.
6. Cornbread Muffins: These slightly sweet muffins are a delightful addition, providing another layer of flavor to the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your stuffing, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish significantly. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the toasting step – Not toasting the bread can result in a soggy stuffing. Toasting helps absorb the broth better and adds texture.
• Using too much liquid – Over-soaking your bread can lead to mushy stuffing. Always add broth gradually until the bread is moist but not swimming in liquid.
• Neglecting seasoning – Failing to season properly can leave your stuffing bland. Don’t forget to taste as you mix and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Not letting it rest – Skipping the resting time after baking can make the stuffing fall apart. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving for better texture.
• Choosing low-quality broth – Using subpar broth can diminish flavor. Opt for high-quality chicken or turkey broth to enhance your stuffing’s richness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Cool the stuffing completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

• Store in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover with foil and reheat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making this delicious stuffing recipe.

Can I make this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffing up to a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.

What type of bread works best for this stuffing?

Stale bread works best as it absorbs liquid well. Use white bread, ciabatta, or baguette for great texture!

How do I customize my Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or different herbs based on your taste preferences!

Is this recipe suitable for large gatherings?

Absolutely! This recipe serves about 10 people but can easily be doubled or halved based on your needs.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes! Vegetable broth is a great alternative if you want a lighter flavor while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is not just traditional but also incredibly versatile. With its buttery flavor and crispy edges, it’s bound to become a favorite at any gathering. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting seasonings. Give it a try this holiday season!