Thanksgiving Stuffing

This Thanksgiving, the star of the meal might very well be the Best Thanksgiving Stuffing! Think about the warmth of family gathering around the table, the scent of herbs and spices wafting through the air, and of course, that golden, crispy topping that beckons you for a serving. Stuffing isn’t just another side dish; it’s a comforting staple that rounds off your turkey and trimmings in the most delightful way. The crispy edges paired with the soft interior make it irresistibly tasty and perfect for those cozy family gatherings. Whether you’re preparing to entertain or simply enjoying an intimate dinner, this easy recipe will help create a holiday atmosphere that everyone will remember. Grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s turn those classic flavors into a dish that everyone is sure to love!

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Why This Recipe Works

This Thanksgiving stuffing recipe combines the classic flavors of herbs, fresh vegetables, and toasted bread, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. The magic begins with toasting the bread, which enhances its texture and helps it soak up all those flavorful juices later. Now, when you sauté your vegetables in butter, you’ll capture that buttery richness that makes every bite exquisite. Together, these elements create a delightful harmony of flavors that everyone at your table will appreciate.

Why You’ll Love This Best Thanksgiving Stuffing

Imagine the aroma of fresh herbs drifting through your home as you prepare this stuffing. It’s simple yet delicious, perfect for evoking nostalgia and bringing people together around the table. Each forkful will remind you of holidays long past, connecting you with fond memories. The crispy edges and soft center make it a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving spread, uniting family and friends over a meal that feels like home.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of bread (white, ciabatta, Italian, or baguette)
• 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter
• 1 large onion (about 3 ½ cups chopped)
• 2 cups celery (¼ inch diced)
• ⅓ cup fresh parsley (chopped, preferably Italian flat-leaf)
• ¼ cup fresh sage (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups high-quality chicken or turkey broth (plus ½ cup more if needed)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon butter (softened, for greasing the pan)

Preparing the Bread

Toast the Bread

Begin by tearing or cutting your loaf of bread into bite-size pieces (about 1-2 inches). Lay these pieces on a dry baking sheet and toast at 250°F for about 1 hour. Stir occasionally to ensure even drying. The goal here is to dry the bread without browning it. This will give you the perfect sturdy base for your stuffing.

Sautéing Vegetables

Cook Onion and Celery

While the bread is toasting, melt 1 cup (2 sticks) of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your roughly chopped onions and diced celery, sautéing them for about 7-10 minutes until they become soft but don’t brown. This step enhances their natural sweetness, making the stuffing even more delicious.

Combining Ingredients

Mix Vegetables and Herbs

In a large bowl, combine those golden toasted bread pieces with your sautéed onion and celery mixture. Then, sprinkle in ⅓ cup of parsley, ¼ cup of sage, 1 tablespoon of rosemary, and 1 tablespoon of thyme. To really elevate the flavors, season your mix with 2 teaspoons of kosher salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything together until evenly combined, and feel free to get your hands in there for a more personal touch.

Adding the Broth

Incorporate the Chicken Broth

In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of chicken broth and 2 eggs. Gradually pour this homemade mixture over your stuffing. Gently use your hands to mix and moisten the bread pieces, being careful to reach all corners for a consistent moistness. Your goal here is a lovely wet stuffing, but avoid letting any liquid pool at the bottom of the bowl.

Baking the Stuffing

Prepare for Baking

Now, it’s time to prep for baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of softened butter. Then, transfer your stuffing mixture to the greased dish, spreading it out evenly. If you’d like, you can cover the dish and refrigerate it overnight, making your Thanksgiving morning all the easier.

Bake the Stuffing

Cover the stuffing with foil and bake for 40 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 25-35 minutes. Watch for that top to become golden brown and crispy. This texture is where the magic happens—crunchy on top, soft in the middle, ready to complement your turkey beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the stuffing as a side dish alongside your Thanksgiving turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce for a traditional feast. The combination of flavors will take your meal to new heights, inviting everyone to gather ’round for seconds and thirds.

Tips for Success

• Ensure your bread is well-dried for the most appealing texture.
• Adjust seasoning to taste, to suit your unique palate.
• Don’t rush the sautéing process; taking those extra moments brings out deeper flavors.

Variations

• For an added surprise, toss in cooked sausage or nuts to elevate flavor and texture.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of bread or herbs based on what you love.

FAQs

1. Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this stuffing the night before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

2. What type of bread is best for stuffing?
A mix of white bread with ciabatta or baguette creates a fantastic texture that everyone will enjoy.

3. Can I freeze leftover stuffing?
Absolutely! Baked leftovers can be frozen for a later delightful meal.

4. How can I make stuffing vegetarian?
Simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth, and skip any meat additions.

5. How long does cooked stuffing last in the fridge?
Cooked stuffing typically lasts 3-4 days in an airtight container in the fridge.

This stuffing recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a beloved tradition that enhances the Thanksgiving experience. Each ingredient plays a role in delivering comfort and joy, inviting warmth and nostalgia around the holiday table. Give it a try, and it just might become your new family favorite.

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