A classic stuffing offers hearty texture, aromatic flavors, and the perfect balance of crisp and custardy bites.

This combination enhances the Thanksgiving meal by tying together all the other dishes harmoniously.

With this guide, you’ll effortlessly craft a stuffing that not only delights your guests but also makes you the star of the holiday feast.

Simple is Best Stuffing Recipe

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Ingredients

Bread

Use day-old bread for the best results. A combination of white and wheat bread or sourdough is ideal. Tear or cut it into cubes and dry it thoroughly. Drying the bread ensures it absorbs broth without turning soggy.

Aromatics

Celery and Onions: These staples add depth and flavor. Sauté them in butter until tender to enhance their natural sweetness.

Seasoning

Poultry Seasoning: A blend of sage thyme, and rosemary creates the classic Thanksgiving flavor. Substitute with ground sage if needed.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley sage, rosemary, and thyme work beautifully. Use fresh if possible for a vibrant taste.

Broth

Chicken or turkey broth adds moisture. Adjust the amount based on your bread’s dryness. Start with 2 cups and add more as needed.

Optional Additions

Add shredded carrots raisins, dried cranberries, or cooked sausage for extra flavor and texture.

Preparing the Bread (Drying Bread)

Counter Method: Tear bread into cubes and leave it out for 2-3 days to dry.
Oven Method: Spread cubes on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F for 10 minutes. Cool before using.

Instructions

Prepare the Aromatics

Melt 2/3 cup butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Add diced onions and celery. Sauté until tender (about 10-12 minutes). Stir in poultry seasoning and cook for another minute.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix dried bread cubes with the sautéed onion mixture. Add chopped parsley and fresh herbs.
Pour 1 cup of broth over the bread mixture and gently toss. Continue adding broth a little at a time until the bread is moist but not soggy. Season with salt and pepper.

Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased 13×9-inch baking dish. Dot with butter if desired.
Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 35 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden and crisp.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

To Make Ahead:

Assemble the stuffing up to 2 days in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.

To Freeze:

Store leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Variations and Customizations

Stuffing a Turkey:

Let the prepared stuffing cool in the fridge for at least 45 minutes. Stuff the turkey just before roasting to avoid unsafe temperatures. Ensure the stuffing reaches 165°F in the center when cooking.

Additional Flavors:

For added texture, mix in toasted nuts or diced apples. For a richer stuffing, whisk 2 eggs into the broth before combining with the bread.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 185
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 11g
Sodium: 462mg

Why Simple is Best

This recipe highlights the beauty of simplicity. The combination of fresh herbs, buttery aromatics, and perfectly toasted bread creates a stuffing that is both comforting and timeless. Whether served alongside turkey or as part of a vegetarian spread, it’s sure to be a hit at your holiday table.