Classic Homemade Stuffing: A Timeless Holiday Favorite

No holiday feast is complete without a side of delicious, homemade stuffing. This Classic Homemade Stuffing recipe combines golden, toasted bread cubes with a medley of aromatic herbs, savory vegetables, and just the right amount of broth to create a dish that’s moist, flavorful, and topped with a satisfying crispy crust. Whether you’re serving it alongside turkey, chicken, or as a standalone dish, this stuffing is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stuffing recipe brings together the nostalgic flavors of traditional holiday meals while being versatile enough to suit any gathering. Here’s why it’s a must-make:

• Classic Flavor: A harmonious blend of sage, thyme, and rosemary gives it a timeless taste.
• Perfect Texture: The combination of golden, crisp bread cubes and tender, moist interiors creates a delightful contrast.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to include add-ins like sausage, mushrooms, or nuts.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or a small family dinner, this stuffing will have everyone reaching for seconds.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for a stress-free holiday.

Why This Recipe Works

The success of this stuffing lies in its balance of flavors and textures, achieved through careful attention to detail:

1. Toasting the Bread: Ensures the bread holds its shape while absorbing the flavorful broth.
2. Aromatic Vegetables: Onion, celery, and garlic form the aromatic base that infuses the stuffing with depth.
3. Classic Herbs: Sage, thyme, and rosemary are the stars of this dish, providing an unmistakable holiday aroma.
4. Eggs for Binding: Beaten eggs hold the stuffing together without making it dense.
5. Crispy Top: Baking uncovered at the end creates a golden, crunchy topping that’s irresistible.

Ingredients

For the Stuffing:

• 10 cups day-old bread, cubed: French or sourdough bread works best for a hearty texture.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the dish.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped: For a mild, savory base.
• 3 celery stalks, diced: Adds crunch and balance to the stuffing.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Enhances the overall flavor.
• 2 teaspoons dried sage: Provides the quintessential stuffing aroma.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A subtle herbal note.
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Complements the sage and thyme.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Essential for seasoning.
• 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Ensures the stuffing is moist without being soggy.
• 2 large eggs, beaten: Helps bind the stuffing for easy serving.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: For garnish and a pop of freshness.

How to Make Classic Homemade Stuffing

Follow these step-by-step instructions for a foolproof, flavorful stuffing:

1. Toast the Bread

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet in a single layer and toast for 10-15 minutes, or until golden and crisp. This step ensures the bread holds up to the moisture of the broth without becoming mushy. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onion and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic, sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to release the flavors.

3. Combine Ingredients

Pour the sautéed vegetable mixture over the toasted bread cubes. Gradually add the broth, stirring gently to coat the bread. The bread should be moist but not soggy. Mix in the beaten eggs to bind the stuffing.

4. Transfer to Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the stuffing mixture, spreading it evenly. Cover the dish with foil.

5. Bake the Stuffing

Bake the covered stuffing in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the stuffing with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy it hot alongside your favorite main dishes.

Tips for Perfect Stuffing

1. Use Day-Old Bread: Fresh bread can become too mushy. If you don’t have day-old bread, dry it out in a low oven (250°F) for 10-15 minutes.
2. Adjust Broth Amounts: Add broth gradually to ensure the bread is moist but not overly saturated.
3. Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the ingredients to maintain the bread’s texture.
4. Make It Ahead: Assemble the stuffing up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving.
5. Use Fresh Herbs: If available, substitute fresh sage, thyme, and rosemary for a more vibrant flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This stuffing pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes and sides. Here are some ideas to complete your holiday table:

Main Dishes

• Roast Turkey: A classic pairing for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• Herb-Crusted Chicken: Perfect for smaller gatherings.
• Glazed Ham: Complements the savory herb flavors of the stuffing.

Sides

• Cranberry Sauce: Adds a tart, fruity contrast.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, they balance the texture of the stuffing.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: A nutty, caramelized side dish that pairs well with the herbs.

Drinks

• White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the herbaceous stuffing.
• Apple Cider: Warm or chilled, it adds a festive touch.

Nutritional Benefits

This stuffing isn’t just delicious—it also offers nutritional benefits when enjoyed in moderation:

• High in Fiber: Thanks to the bread and vegetables.
• Rich in Vitamins: Onion, celery, and parsley provide vitamins A, C, and K.
• Lower in Sodium: By using low-sodium broth and controlling the salt content, this stuffing is a healthier choice than store-bought options.

Variations and Customizations

Make this classic recipe your own by incorporating your favorite flavors and ingredients:

• Add Protein: Mix in cooked sausage, diced bacon, or pancetta for a heartier dish.
• Incorporate Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Go Fruity: Toss in dried cranberries or chopped apples for a sweet contrast.
• Make It Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free bread for a dietary-friendly version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this stuffing in advance?
A: Yes! Assemble the stuffing a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving for the best texture.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Absolutely. Cool the stuffing completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months and reheat in the oven.

Q: How do I reheat stuffing?
A: Reheat in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for 15-20 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the top.

Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
A: Yes! Substitute 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs for every teaspoon of dried herbs.

Q: What type of bread works best?
A: French, sourdough, or country-style bread with a sturdy texture works best. Avoid soft, pre-sliced sandwich bread.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Homemade Stuffing is the ultimate addition to your holiday spread, combining the nostalgic flavors of traditional feasts with the versatility to suit any occasion. With its perfect blend of savory herbs, crisp-tender bread cubes, and golden crust, it’s sure to become a favorite for years to come.

Whether served alongside a roast turkey at Thanksgiving, paired with a glazed ham at Christmas, or enjoyed as a comforting side dish on a chilly evening, this stuffing is a timeless recipe that everyone will love. Try it today and elevate your next meal with this flavorful classic!

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