This Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing is a cozy blend of bread, herbs, and vegetables that make every holiday special. It’s the perfect side dish to soak up all those delicious turkey juices!
I love how my kitchen smells while this is baking—it’s like a warm hug! Just mix everything up, let it bake, and you have a tasty treat ready to enjoy! Don’t forget to have extra just in case! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Day-Old Bread: A key to stuffing is using stale bread. Sourdough or white bread works great. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with bagels or even gluten-free bread for a gluten-friendly option!
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness. If you need a dairy-free option, olive oil or vegan butter can replace it without losing flavor.
Onion and Celery: These aromatics are essential. For a twist, try shallots instead of onions or add diced carrots for some sweetness. They can help cater to different tastes!
Herbs: While dried sage and thyme are classic, feel free to mix in other herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique flavor. Fresh herbs can elevate the taste, so use what you love!
Broth: Low-sodium broth allows more control over the seasoning. Vegetable broth works if you’re vegetarian. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mushroom broth for a deeper flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Stuffing Is Fluffy and Not Soggy?
The texture of stuffing is super important! Start with toasting the bread; this helps it absorb moisture without becoming mushy. When combining with the broth, add it gradually and mix gently.
- Begin with 2½ cups of broth, then add more if necessary while mixing.
- Watch the cooking time—bake covered for 30 minutes to lock in steam, then uncover for crispiness.
- Feel free to taste-test before baking! Adjust seasoning as you wish for the best flavor.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll create a stuffing that’s both delicious and has the perfect texture for your Thanksgiving feast!
Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 12 cups day-old bread, cubed (preferably white or sourdough)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups diced yellow onion
- 1½ cups diced celery
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried sage (or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped)
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme (or 1½ tablespoons fresh chopped)
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2½ to 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- Fresh sage or thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of baking time. You’ll spend about an hour in total, including the time to toast the bread and cook the vegetables, making it perfectly manageable for your Thanksgiving feast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grab a large casserole dish and grease it with butter or cooking spray to ensure your stuffing doesn’t stick.
2. Toasting the Bread:
Next, spread your cubed bread evenly on a baking sheet. Bake it for about 15 minutes, turning it halfway through until it’s slightly crispy and golden. This helps to give your stuffing a perfect texture. Once done, take it out and set it aside to cool.
3. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add in your diced onions and celery, sautéing them until they’ve softened and become translucent, which should take about 7-10 minutes. The smell will be heavenly!
4. Adding Flavor:
Now add the minced garlic, dried sage, thyme, parsley (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes while stirring frequently to ensure nothing burns. This mixture will be bursting with flavor!
5. Combining the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your toasted bread cubes with the cooked vegetable-herb mixture. Give it a good toss to make sure everything is well mixed.
6. Mixing in the Broth and Eggs:
In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the chicken or vegetable broth and the beaten eggs. Gradually pour this mixture over the bread mixture, stirring gently to moisten everything without making it soggy. If you prefer drier stuffing, stick to 2½ cups of broth; add more if you like it moist.
7. Baking the Stuffing:
Transfer your stuffing mixture into the prepared casserole dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Pop it into the oven and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the top to get golden and crisp.
8. Garnishing and Serving:
Once it’s out of the oven and fragrant, garnish with fresh sage or thyme sprigs if desired. Serve this delicious stuffing warm as a side to your turkey, and enjoy every bite!
Enjoy your classic, savory Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing that perfectly complements your holiday meal!
Can I Use Fresh Bread Instead of Day-Old Bread?
While day-old bread is ideal for achieving the right texture, you can use fresh bread. Just let it sit out for a few hours to dry out a bit, or lightly toast it in the oven for a few minutes to ensure it doesn’t get too soggy when mixed with the broth.
Can I Make This Stuffing Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free bread in place of regular bread. The recipe will remain delicious, and no one will be able to tell the difference!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist if needed.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Stuffing?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate extras like cooked sausage, diced apples, nuts, or dried cranberries for added flavor and texture. Just be sure to balance the additional moisture with the right amount of broth.
