Ah, the smell of a savory classic stuffing recipe wafting through the house—there’s nothing quite like it! This dish is a staple on our holiday table, and I can still picture my grandmother stirring the pot, her eyes twinkling with joy as the family gathered around. Stuffing isn’t just a side dish; it’s a comforting embrace that elevates any meal, especially during Thanksgiving or Christmas. It pairs beautifully with turkey, of course, but honestly, it shines on its own too! The mix of herbs, bread, and veggies creates a warm, hearty flavor that’s simply irresistible. Trust me, once you bring this recipe into your home, it’ll become a cherished part of your family gatherings too!

Ingredients List

• 1 loaf of day-old bread, cubed (about 10 cups) – A crusty loaf works best for texture!
• 1 cup unsalted butter – This is where the magic starts; it adds richness.
• 2 cups celery, diced – Fresh and crisp, it brings that wonderful crunch.
• 2 cups onion, diced – Sweet and savory, it’s a flavor base you can’t skip.
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced – Just a touch adds a beautiful aroma.
• 2 teaspoons dried sage – Classic herb that gives stuffing its traditional flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Another must-have for depth and warmth.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Just enough to add a gentle kick.
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth – Homemade is ideal, but store-bought works too!
• 2 large eggs, beaten – They help bind everything, creating a lovely texture.
• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped – For a burst of color and freshness!

How to Prepare Instructions

Making this classic stuffing recipe is easier than you might think! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious side dish that everyone will love.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to give your stuffing that perfect crispy top.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Let it melt slowly to avoid burning.
3. Add the 2 cups of diced celery and 2 cups of diced onion to the skillet. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and fragrant. You want them tender but not browned!
4. Once your veggies are ready, stir in 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 2 teaspoons of dried sage, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook for another minute until the herbs are aromatic. Wow, the smell is heavenly!
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread (about 10 cups) with the sautéed vegetable mixture. Make sure to stir gently to mix them without crushing the bread. You want it moist but not soggy!
6. Next, pour in the 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the 2 beaten eggs and 1 cup of chopped fresh parsley. Mix everything together gently until the bread is evenly moistened.
7. Transfer the stuffing mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly and don’t pack it too tightly; it needs room to breathe as it bakes!
8. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent overbaking!

And there you have it—a classic stuffing recipe that’s ready to steal the show at your next holiday meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It captures the essence of traditional flavors that everyone craves during the holidays.
• Simple to prepare—perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs!
• Versatile enough to serve not just with turkey, but as a standalone dish or alongside other meals.
• Adaptable for any occasion, from festive gatherings to cozy family dinners.
• Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures and aromas that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Tips for Success

To make your classic stuffing recipe truly shine, here are a few pro tips I swear by:

• Use homemade broth: If you can, whip up some homemade chicken or vegetable broth. It elevates the flavor to a whole new level!
• Experiment with herbs: Don’t be afraid to mix it up! Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a different twist.
• Add some crunch: Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can add a delightful texture. Dried fruits like cranberries or apricots? Yes, please!
• Let it rest: Allow the stuffing to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Trust me, these little tweaks make a big difference!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or catering to different tastes, there are countless ways to modify this classic stuffing recipe! Here are a few ideas:

• Herb swap: Instead of sage and thyme, try fresh rosemary and tarragon for a fragrant twist.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for those who love a bit of heat.
• Vegetarian delight: For a meatier texture, incorporate sautéed mushrooms or roasted chestnuts.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free bread or cornbread to cater to guests with dietary restrictions.
• Sweet touch: Mix in some diced apples or pears for a hint of sweetness that complements the savory flavors.

Don’t hesitate to get creative—your stuffing can be as unique as your gathering!

Nutritional Information

Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just estimates. For this classic stuffing recipe, each serving (1 cup) typically contains about 300 calories, 15g of fat, 6g of protein, and 36g of carbohydrates. Enjoy responsibly!

FAQ Section

Here are some common questions I get about my classic stuffing recipe, along with helpful answers!

Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old?
You can, but let it dry out a bit first! Fresh bread can get too mushy, so a little stale is best for that perfect texture.

What can I substitute for eggs?
If you’re looking for a vegan option, try using flaxseed meal mixed with water as a binding agent. About 1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water works well!

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven for a crispy finish or in the microwave if you’re in a hurry.

Can I freeze the stuffing?
Absolutely! Just let it cool, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

What should I serve with stuffing?
It pairs wonderfully with turkey, but it also makes a great side for roasted chicken, pork, or even as a hearty vegetarian dish on its own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your classic stuffing recipe fresh and delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay good for about 3-4 days—perfect for those post-holiday munchies! If you want to save it for later, you can freeze the stuffing. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. For reheating, pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You’ll have that comforting flavor and texture back in no time!

Classic Stuffing Recipe: Master the Art of Flavorful Comfort

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A traditional stuffing recipe perfect for turkey or as a standalone dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 loaf of day-old bread, cubed (about 10 cups)
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups celery, diced
• 2 cups onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add celery, onion, and garlic. Sauté until soft.
4. Stir in sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute.
5. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, broth, eggs, and parsley.
6. Mix gently until moist but not soggy.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
8. Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes until golden brown on top.

Notes

• For a richer flavor, use homemade broth.
• Add chopped nuts or dried fruits for a variation.
• Consider using different herbs based on your preference.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: classic stuffing recipe, traditional stuffing, holiday recipes