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 like a warm hug on your plate. It’s filled with buttery goodness, fresh herbs, and just the right amount of crunch. It reminds me of my grandma’s kitchen, where the smell of savory stuffing would fill the air as we gathered around the table. Whether it’s for a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite.

What makes this stuffing truly special is its simplicity. It’s made with wholesome ingredients that work together in perfect harmony. You can whip it up ahead of time or even bake it fresh on the day of your gathering. Trust me; your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This stuffing comes together quickly and easily, so you can focus on enjoying your time with family.
• Deliciously flavorful: The combination of butter, herbs, and veggies creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this stuffing in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Perfect texture: You’ll achieve that delightful balance of crispy edges and soft interior that everyone craves.
• Versatile dish: Not just for Thanksgiving! This stuffing pairs perfectly with any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple ingredients that make this stuffing so special! Each one brings its own unique flavor to the dish, creating a delightful medley that will make your taste buds dance.

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 parts about this stuffing recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and make it your own. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Incorporate fruits: Diced apples or dried cranberries add a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements beautifully.
• Go veggie: For a vegetarian twist, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and add sautéed mushrooms for extra depth.
• Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, throw in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

How to Make Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Step 1: Toast the Bread

Begin by tearing or cutting your loaf of bread into bite-sized pieces. Spread these pieces onto a dry pan and bake at 250°F for about an hour, stirring occasionally. The goal here is to get them nice and toasty without browning them too much. Toasting helps ensure they absorb all that delicious broth later!

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

While your bread is toasting, chop up your onion until you have about 3 and 1/2 cups worth. Then chop your celery into a 1/4 inch dice. These aromatic veggies form the foundation of flavor in our stuffing—so don’t skimp on them!

Step 3: Sauté the Mixture

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 sticks of butter. Once it’s melted, add all your chopped celery and onions. Sauté these until they’re soft but not browned—about 7-10 minutes—allowing their flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Chop Your Herbs

While the veggies are cooking, chop up all your herbs: parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme. This step is essential because fresh herbs bring brightness and depth to our stuffing.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together all those toasted bread pieces with the sautéed onion-celery mixture and chopped herbs. Sprinkle everything with kosher salt and black pepper before giving it a good stir—this ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 6: Add Broth & Eggs

In another bowl or measuring cup, whisk together 2 cups of broth with the eggs. Slowly pour this mixture over your bread mixture in increments while using your hands to gently combine everything until moistened but not soaked—no liquid should be pooling at the bottom!

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Grease a 9×13 inch pan with softened butter before pouring in your stuffing mixture. Spread it out evenly across the pan. If you want to get ahead of things, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight.

Step 8: Bake It Up!

Cover the pan 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 and crispy on top—just how we like it!

Step 9: Store Leftovers

Any leftovers? No problem! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge or freeze baked leftovers for later enjoyment.

Now you’re all set to impress friends and family alike with this delightful Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Creating the perfect stuffing is all about the little details, so here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out just right!

• Use stale bread: Stale or toasted bread absorbs broth better and maintains a nice texture. Fresh bread can become mushy, which we want to avoid.
• Mix herbs thoroughly: Ensuring that your herbs are evenly distributed throughout the mixture enhances flavor in every bite. It’s all about consistency!
• Don’t rush the sauté: Take your time when cooking the onions and celery. Softening them properly will deepen their flavors and add richness to your stuffing.
• Adjust moisture levels: Every type of bread absorbs liquid differently. Add broth gradually until the mixture is moist but not soggy; this will help achieve that perfect texture.
• Let it rest: If you’re preparing in advance, let the stuffing sit for a while before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Serve Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Serving this delightful stuffing can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting side dish at your Thanksgiving table.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances freshness.
• Cranberry sauce: A small scoop of cranberry sauce on top can provide a lovely contrast in flavor and texture, making each bite unique.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Bright and colorful roasted seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes add both nutrition and aesthetic appeal to your plate.
• Green bean casserole: This classic side dish, with its creamy sauce and crispy topping, complements the savory flavors of stuffing wonderfully.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base for soaking up any gravy you serve alongside, balancing out rich flavors beautifully.
• Gravy: A rich turkey gravy can elevate the whole meal experience by adding moisture and flavor to both the stuffing and other dishes on your plate.

With these serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving table will not only look inviting but also offer a delightful array of flavors that keep everyone coming back for more! Enjoy your meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This stuffing recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the delicious flavors of Thanksgiving without the last-minute rush! Whether you’re preparing for a big gathering or simply want to savor leftovers later, here’s how to store and reheat your stuffing.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing to cool completely at room temperature.
• Transfer it to an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the stuffing completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the stuffing in a baking dish and add a splash of broth if it seems dry.
• Cover with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• For frozen stuffing, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or bake directly from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious stuffing recipe!

Can I make this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this stuffing a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up until baking, then cover tightly and refrigerate. Bake just before serving!

What is the best way to store leftovers from this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving?

Let any leftover stuffing cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

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

Yes! Feel free to use any bread you love—white bread, ciabatta, or even cornbread work wonderfully. Each will give a unique flavor and texture!

How do I make this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, substitute butter with plant-based butter and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Omit the eggs or replace them with a flax egg mixture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe as much as I do! It’s all about that delightful buttery flavor combined with fresh herbs that truly makes it special. Whether it’s served alongside turkey or enjoyed on its own, I believe it will become a cherished part of your holiday celebrations. Wishing you joyful cooking moments filled with warmth and laughter—happy feasting!