This buttery Thanksgiving stuffing is packed with delicious flavors and a touch of crunch. With bread, herbs, and veggies, it’s the perfect side dish to complement your turkey!
Honestly, I could eat this stuffing all on its own! It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds. Make sure to scoop extra onto your plate; it’s just that good! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Day-old white bread or French bread works best for this stuffing. If you’re in a pinch, you can use whole wheat bread or even cornbread for a twist!
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal since you can control the saltiness. However, if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or vegan butter can substitute nicely.
Onion and Celery: These add great flavor and texture. If someone in your family isn’t a fan, try using leeks or shallots in place of onions, and zucchini can work for celery.
Herbs: Fresh herbs boost flavor, but if you only have dried, use about a third of the amount. I love adding fresh thyme from my herb garden; it brightens up the dish!
How Do You Ensure Your Stuffing Isn’t Soggy?
Getting the right moisture level in stuffing is key to great texture. Start with dried-out bread cubes—this helps absorb the broth without getting mushy. Here’s how:
- Toast your bread cubes until they’re golden. This step is crucial!
- Add broth gradually. Use just enough to moisten the bread without oversaturating it.
- Mix gently. Toss the bread and broth together slowly to keep the cubes intact and fluffy.
Following these steps will keep your stuffing deliciously crispy on top and perfectly moist inside! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Buttery Thanksgiving Stuffing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 loaf (about 12 cups) day-old white bread or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
Vegetables:
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Herbs & Seasoning:
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Broth:
- 2 to 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful stuffing will take about 20 minutes for preparation and 45 minutes to bake, making a total of about 1 hour and 5 minutes. Not too shabby for a delicious side dish that will elevate your Thanksgiving feast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Level Up Your Bread:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer. We’ll toast them for about 15-20 minutes until they’re dry and lightly golden. This will give your stuffing the perfect texture!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and celery. Sauté these veggies for about 7-10 minutes until they’re soft and translucent. They’ll smell amazing!
3. Add the Flavor:
Now it’s time to bring on the flavor! Stir in the minced garlic, dried sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Let this cook for another 1-2 minutes to really wake up those herbs and garlic.
4. Mix It Up:
Transfer your toasted bread cubes into a big mixing bowl. Pour the cooked vegetable and herb butter mixture over the top. Toss everything gently to combine well. You want every piece of bread to soak up that delicious butter mixture!
5. Moisture Control:
Gradually add the chicken broth, about half a cup at a time, mixing gently until the bread is moist but not watery. You might not need all the broth, so go slowly and check the consistency.
6. Fresh Finishing Touch:
Fold in the chopped fresh parsley for a nice pop of color and flavor. It’s all about those fresh herbs!
7. Baking Time:
Transfer the stuffing mixture into a buttered baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover it loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until it’s golden brown on top and slightly crisp.
8. Cool and Serve:
Let your beautiful stuffing cool for a few minutes before digging in. If you’d like, sprinkle a little extra fresh parsley on top for a lovely garnish. Enjoy your rich, buttery, and herb-infused Thanksgiving stuffing—definitely a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Fresh Bread Instead of Day-Old Bread?
While fresh bread is softer and will work, it can make your stuffing too soggy. It’s best to use day-old bread or toast the fresh bread cubes in the oven first to dry them out!
How Can I Adjust This Recipe for a Gluten-Free Version?
You can easily make this stuffing gluten-free by using gluten-free bread. Just make sure it’s stale or toast it beforehand to achieve the right texture. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’re all set!
Can I Make This Stuffing Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing up to the baking step and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, bring it to room temperature, then follow the baking instructions as usual!
How to Store Leftover Stuffing?
Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave it for a quick option.