Ingredients

For the Stuffing Base:

• ¾ cup butter
• ½ cup diced onion
• ½ cup diced celery
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

For Moisture and Binding:

• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 large eggs

For the Bread and Herbs:

• 10 cups cubed whole wheat bread
• ½ cup chopped fresh parsley

Prep and Cooking Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 8
• Calories (Per Serving): Approximately 250

Steps to Make Classic Homemade Bread Stuffing

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Cubes

1. Cut the whole wheat bread into 1-inch cubes if not pre-cubed.
2. Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and let them dry out overnight, or toast them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–15 minutes. Dry bread cubes absorb flavors better, ensuring a rich stuffing.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Stir in the salt, poultry seasoning, and black pepper. Cook for another minute to let the spices bloom.

Step 3: Assemble the Stuffing Mixture

1. Place the dried bread cubes in a large mixing bowl.
2. Pour the butter-vegetable mixture over the bread cubes and toss to combine.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and eggs. Pour this mixture over the bread and gently mix until the bread is evenly moistened.
4. Fold in the chopped parsley for a fresh, herbaceous finish.

Step 4: Bake the Stuffing

Option 1: In a Baking Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
3. Transfer the stuffing mixture to the dish and spread it out evenly.
4. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and crisp.

Option 2: In the Bird

1. Stuff the cavity of a turkey or chicken loosely with the stuffing.
2. Roast the bird according to your recipe, ensuring the stuffing reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Why This Recipe Is Timeless

Stuffing has been a cherished part of culinary traditions for centuries, with variations appearing in cuisines around the world. The combination of bread, vegetables, herbs, and broth is a testament to the resourcefulness of home cooks, who transformed humble ingredients into a dish bursting with flavor and comfort.

This recipe embodies everything that makes stuffing a timeless favorite. The use of whole wheat bread adds a modern, wholesome twist, while the classic seasonings keep it rooted in tradition. Its adaptability means it can be customized with add-ins like sausage, dried fruit, or nuts, making it suitable for every palate and occasion.

Stuffing isn’t just a side dish; it’s a symbol of gathering, gratitude, and shared meals. It’s a dish that brings people together and reminds us of the joy of cooking for those we love.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Fiber: 4 g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! White, sourdough, or even cornbread can be used instead of whole wheat. Each type will bring its own unique flavor and texture.

2. Can I make this stuffing vegetarian?
Yes, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.

3. Can I prepare this stuffing ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the stuffing the day before and refrigerate it. Bake it fresh on the day of serving for the best results.

4. How do I know if my stuffing is done?
The top should be golden and crispy, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, leftover stuffing can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven before serving.

Tips for Perfect Bread Stuffing

1. Dry the Bread Properly: Ensure the bread cubes are completely dry to prevent soggy stuffing.
2. Season Gradually: Taste as you go to avoid over-salting. Remember that the broth and bread may already contain salt.
3. Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients gently to maintain the texture of the bread cubes.
4. Add Custom Flavors: For extra richness, consider adding cooked sausage, cranberries, or chopped pecans.
5. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and sage enhance the flavor, but dried herbs can be used in a pinch.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store leftover stuffing in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing: Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
3. Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore moisture.

Conclusion: A Dish for All Generations

This Classic Homemade Bread Stuffing is more than a recipe—it’s a tradition passed down through generations. Its warm, savory flavors and versatile nature make it a cornerstone of holiday meals, evoking nostalgia and bringing families together around the table.

From the satisfying crunch of the golden-baked top to the moist, flavorful center, every bite of this stuffing tells a story of comfort and care. It’s a dish that adapts to the times while staying true to its roots, proving that the simplest ingredients often create the most cherished meals.

Whether you’re hosting a festive feast or enjoying a quiet dinner, this stuffing will never fail to delight. With every bite, it reminds us of the power of food to create connections and celebrate life’s most meaningful moments.