This buttery Thanksgiving stuffing is a cozy mix of bread, herbs, and spices. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds, perfect for your holiday feast!
I can’t resist the yummy smell as it bakes! It’s so simple to make, just mix, bake, and enjoy. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds! 🦃❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: French bread or a baguette gives a nice texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread. You can also use cornbread for a different flavor! I love using a mix of breads for added depth.
Butter: Unsalted butter is essential as it lets you control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, consider using vegan butter or olive oil. I’ve tried both, and they work well without sacrificing taste.
Onions and Celery: These veggies add depth and aroma. If you’re short on celery, you can use leeks or shallots. I sometimes add in a bit of bell pepper for extra sweetness.
Herbs: Sage, thyme, and rosemary are traditional. Dried herbs are great, but if you have fresh ones, use them for a more vibrant flavor. I love adding a pinch of nutmeg too for a holiday touch!
Broth: Use low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth. If you want a richer taste, homemade broth is a great choice. If you’re vegetarian, definitely stick with vegetable broth.
How Do I Ensure My Stuffing is Perfectly Moist?
The texture is key in stuffing! To keep it moist, gradually add broth to your bread mixture. You want it wet but not soggy. I usually start with 2 1/2 cups and then add more if needed, checking the consistency. The bread should be damp, and you can always add a splash more broth if it looks too dry.
- Mix gently to combine without smashing the bread.
- If you’re ahead of time, make it earlier in the day and keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to heat it.
Follow these tips for a stuffing that everyone will love! Enjoy your holiday cooking!
Buttery Thanksgiving Stuffing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 loaf (about 1 pound) French bread or baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups celery, finely chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 1/2 to 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 45 minutes toasting the bread, 15 minutes preparing the vegetables and mixing everything together, and then around 30 minutes baking the stuffing until it’s golden and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread:
Start by preheating your oven to 250°F (120°C). Spread your bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until they are dry and slightly golden, which should take about 45 minutes. Be sure to stir them halfway through for even toasting. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
Now, you’ll want to turn up the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it starts to foam. Add in the finely chopped onions, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté these until the vegetables are soft and translucent, which will take about 8-10 minutes.
3. Seasoning Time:
Once the vegetables are nice and soft, stir in the dried sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute. This will release the lovely aromas and flavors of the herbs—so good!
4. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, take the toasted bread cubes and combine them with the cooked vegetable mixture. Gradually stir in 2 1/2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, tossing gently until the bread is moistened without being soggy. If you feel it needs more liquid, don’t hesitate to add the remaining broth.
5. Transfer and Bake:
Next, stir in the chopped fresh parsley and transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for another 15-20 minutes to achieve a golden brown, crisp top.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s all baked and your kitchen smells amazing, take it out of the oven. Garnish with additional fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your rich and buttery Thanksgiving stuffing—a true classic that will warm everyone’s hearts this holiday!
Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃🥧
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! You can use a variety of breads, such as sourdough or challah, which will add unique flavors to the stuffing. Just make sure to cut them into 1-inch cubes to maintain consistency. You can even mix different types of bread for added texture!
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffing?
Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven covered with foil or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make Stuffing in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day ahead! Just assemble everything and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as instructed. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
What Should I Serve with Stuffing?
This stuffing pairs wonderfully with turkey, ham, or roasted vegetables. It also complements traditional sides like mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce, making it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table!