Homemade Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a warm and comforting dish to add to your holiday table, this Homemade Stuffing Recipe is just what you need! It’s not just for Thanksgiving; this delicious stuffing can elevate any family gathering or cozy weeknight dinner. The aroma of sautéed onions and celery mixing with freshly baked bread is simply irresistible. This recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone would gather around the table to enjoy hearty meals together.

What makes this stuffing truly special is how simple it is to make, yet it tastes like a labor of love. You can easily double the recipe if you’re feeding a crowd, making it perfect for those busy holidays when everyone comes home to celebrate. I can’t wait for you to try this; it might just become a new favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dish without any stress.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves stuffing! It’s a comforting side that pairs well with so many main dishes.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance and bake it just before serving, saving you time in the kitchen.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of herbs and butter creates a rich flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are all about simplicity and wholesome goodness. You probably already have most of them in your pantry! Let’s gather everything we need to create this delightful stuffing.

For the Stuffing

• 12 cups Stale White Bread – cut into 1 inch cubes (approx 1 lb 4 oz loaf of bread – see notes below for details)
• 3/4 cup plus 2 tbsp butter (divided)
• 1 large yellow or white onion (chopped)
• 2 cups celery (chopped stalks and leaves!)
• 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp poultry seasoning
• 1/2 tsp marjoram
• 3 Tbsp (heaping) fresh sage (chopped)
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley (chopped – Curly or Italian will work)
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup chicken broth or stock

Variations

This stuffing recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and make it your own by trying out some of these variations.

• Add fruits: Toss in some dried cranberries or chopped apples for a sweet twist.
• Include nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch and earthy flavor.
• Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to keep it plant-based.

How to Make Homemade Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by tearing your stale bread into cubes. You want them about one inch in size. Stale bread works best because it absorbs the flavors without becoming mushy. Spread the cubes out on a baking sheet and let them dry out in the oven at low heat for about 15 minutes if they aren’t stale enough yet.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt half of the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and celery, cooking until they’re soft and fragrant, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds the base flavor for your stuffing!

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

In a big bowl, combine your dried bread cubes with the sautéed veggies. Add in all the herbs, salt, pepper, eggs, and broth. Mix gently until everything is well combined but be careful not to break down the bread too much.

Step 4: Bake It Up

Transfer your stuffing mixture into a greased baking dish. Drizzle any remaining melted butter over the top before popping it in the oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 30-40 minutes until it’s golden brown on top. The crispy edges contrast beautifully with the tender inside!

I hope this Homemade Stuffing Recipe  brings as much joy to your table as it does mine! Enjoy every bite with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Stuffing Recipe

Making the perfect homemade stuffing is all about attention to detail and a pinch of love! Here are some pro tips to ensure your stuffing turns out delightful every time.

• Choose the Right Bread: Opt for stale bread, as it absorbs flavors better and holds its shape when mixed with broth. Day-old bread works wonders here!
• Sauté Your Vegetables: Always sauté your onions and celery in butter before adding them to the bread. This step enhances their flavors and ensures they’re tender in the final dish.
• Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: Season generously! The right amount of herbs and spices is key to making your stuffing flavorful. Trust your taste buds; they know best!
• Broth Matters: Use high-quality chicken broth or stock for a richer flavor profile. Homemade broth is even better if you have the time!
• Rest Before Serving: Allow your stuffing to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully and makes it easier to serve.

How to Serve Homemade Stuffing Recipe

Serving homemade stuffing can elevate your meal, especially during festive occasions! Here are some ideas to help you present this delicious side dish with flair.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some extra chopped parsley or sage on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Cranberry Sauce: A small dollop of cranberry sauce on the side adds a sweet-tart contrast that complements the savory stuffing beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables, like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes, offers vibrant colors and flavors that pair nicely with stuffing.
• Green Bean Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with almonds make for a delightful crunch that balances the softness of the stuffing.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice that pairs perfectly with stuffing. The buttery goodness makes for a comforting plate!
• Gravy: A rich, savory gravy drizzled over both the stuffing and mashed potatoes ties everything together deliciously.

Now you’re all set to impress your family and friends with this homemade stuffing recipe! Enjoy every bite, knowing you’ve created something truly special. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Homemade Stuffing Recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delicious side dish while saving time during the busy holiday season. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it for later use, ensuring that your Thanksgiving table is filled with warmth and comfort.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Cool the stuffing thoroughly before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best taste, label with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffing in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the stuffing in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to retain moisture.
• Bake for about 25-30 minutes if refrigerated, or 45-50 minutes if frozen, until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I make this Homemade Stuffing Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving.

What kind of bread should I use for this Homemade Stuffing Recipe?

Stale white bread works best for this recipe, but you can also use whole grain or gluten-free bread if preferred. Just ensure it’s dried out for optimal texture.

Can I substitute other herbs in this stuffing?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary to customize the flavor of your Homemade Stuffing Recipe.

How do I make my stuffing more flavorful?

Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, cranberries, or nuts. You can also increase the amount of fresh herbs used in your Homemade Stuffing Recipe.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze this stuffing after it’s cooked. Just ensure it’s cooled and stored properly to maintain its flavors!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Homemade Stuffing Recipe as much as I do! It’s a cozy dish that brings people together and adds a wonderful touch to any meal. Don’t hesitate to try different variations or share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!