Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious stuffing recipe for Thanksgiving, you’ve come to the right place! This Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving is not just any ordinary dish; it’s a family favorite that brings back warm memories of gatherings filled with laughter and love. The buttery flavor combined with crispy edges makes it a must-have for any holiday table. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare, you might find yourself making it for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners too.

The beauty of this stuffing is in its simplicity and the wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re serving it alongside your turkey or enjoying it as a standalone dish, this stuffing will surely become a cherished part of your celebrations!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: This stuffing bursts with buttery goodness and the delightful taste of fresh herbs.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting side dish, making it perfect for family gatherings.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe allows you to whip up a delicious stuffing without any fuss.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it ahead of time and simply bake when ready to serve—ideal for busy holiday schedules!
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever bread you have on hand and customize with your favorite herbs for a personal touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving, you’ll need:

• 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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Add Some Crunch: Toss in some toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Incorporate Fruits: Diced apples or cranberries can add a sweet touch that balances the savory flavors beautifully.
• Try Different Herbs: Experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano if you prefer different flavor profiles.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter and use vegetable broth instead.

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 an hour, stirring occasionally. You don’t want them browned; just nicely toasted. This step is crucial because toasty bread absorbs broth better without becoming mushy!

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

While your bread is toasting away, it’s time to chop up your veggies! Dice your onion until you have about 3 and 1/2 cups. Chop the celery into roughly a 1/4 inch dice. These veggies provide essential flavor and texture, so don’t rush this step!

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt two sticks of butter. Once melted, add in the celery and onions. Sauté for about 7–10 minutes until they soften but don’t brown. This releases their natural sweetness and creates a fantastic base for our stuffing.

Step 4: Chop the Herbs

Meanwhile, chop up all those wonderful herbs! You’ll need parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme—fresh herbs elevate this stuffing to another level.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all the toasted bread pieces with the sautéed onion-celery mixture and chopped herbs. Sprinkle in kosher salt and black pepper too! Mix everything well so that all those flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Add Broth and Eggs

In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together two cups of chicken broth with two eggs. Slowly pour this mixture over the bread while using your hands to gently squeeze and moisten each piece. The goal here is moist but not soupy—just enough broth should be absorbed into every nook!

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Grease a 9×13 inch pan with softened butter before pouring in your glorious stuffing mixture. Spread it evenly across the pan. If you’re prepping ahead of time, feel free to cover tightly and refrigerate overnight!

Step 8: Bake It Up!

Cover your prepared stuffing with foil and bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 25–35 minutes until it’s golden brown on top—perfectly crispy!

Step 9: Store Leftovers

Don’t let any go to waste! Store leftovers in the fridge or freeze baked portions for later enjoyment.

I can’t wait for you to try this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving! It’s sure to become a staple at your holiday gatherings just like it has in my home. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Making the perfect stuffing can be a labor of love, but with these helpful tips, you’ll ensure it’s a hit at your Thanksgiving table!

• Use Day-Old Bread: If possible, use bread that’s a day or two old. It has less moisture, making it better at absorbing the flavorful broth without getting soggy.
• Toast Your Bread: Don’t skip the toasting step! This helps develop a delicious depth of flavor and ensures that the bread pieces have that delightful crunch on the edges.
• Taste as You Go: After mixing in the herbs and seasonings, give it a little taste test. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking. Remember, you want those flavors to shine!
• Let It Rest: If you’re able to prepare your stuffing a day ahead, let it chill in the fridge overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes reheating easier.
• Add Some Crunch: For an extra layer of texture, consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. They provide a lovely crunch that contrasts with the softness of the bread.

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Serving your stuffing can be just as important as making it! Let’s dive into some delightful ways to present this classic dish that will surely impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or sage on top adds vibrant color and an aromatic touch.
• Cranberry Sauce: A small dollop of cranberry sauce on each serving brings sweetness that pairs perfectly with savory stuffing.
• Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions can add a pop of color and mild onion flavor that complements the dish well.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medleys of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes not only look gorgeous on your table but also offer a healthy balance to your meal.
• Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed with butter and topped with toasted almonds provide a crisp texture and nutty flavor that contrast nicely with stuffing.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a favorite! Their smoothness pairs wonderfully with stuffing’s texture and gravy.
• Butternut Squash Soup: A warm bowl of this velvety soup can serve as a lovely starter before diving into the main feast.

With these serving suggestions and tips in mind, your Thanksgiving gathering is sure to be filled with smiles and satisfied appetites! Enjoy every moment—and every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Stuffing Recipe for Thanksgiving is perfect for meal prep, making your holiday cooking a breeze! You can prepare it a day in advance or store any leftovers to enjoy later. Here’s how you can manage the stuffing:

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Item: To freeze, ensure the stuffing is fully cooled.
• Item: Place the stuffing in a freezer-safe container or bag, pressing out as much air as possible.
• Item: Freeze for up to 2-3 months. For best results, label with the date!

Reheating

• Item: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Item: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Item: Cover with foil and reheat for 20-25 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes to crisp up the top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe.

What is the best bread for this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

The best bread for this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving includes white bread, ciabatta, or baguette. These types hold moisture well and create that lovely texture!

Can I make this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just follow the storage instructions above for optimal freshness.

How do I add more flavor to my stuffing?

To enhance flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or chopped nuts. Fresh herbs also elevate the taste—feel free to experiment!

Is it necessary to use eggs in this recipe?

Eggs help bind the stuffing together but can be omitted if you prefer a vegan option. Just ensure you adjust the liquid accordingly.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Stuffing Recipe for Thanksgiving brings warmth and joy to your holiday table. It’s packed with flavor and nostalgia, reminding us of family gatherings and cherished memories. Enjoy every moment of making it, and feel free to get creative with your own twists! Happy cooking!