Created on November 10th, 2025 at 08:48 am
A comforting blend of savory herbs and bread
Thanksgiving stuffing is more than just a side dish; it’s a cherished tradition that brings warmth and familiarity to holiday gatherings. This classic recipe combines cubed bread with fragrant herbs, vegetables, and stock, creating a rich, savory mixture that complements the turkey beautifully. As it bakes, your home fills with the enticing aroma of toasting bread and mingling spices, inviting everyone to the dinner table. The stuffing offers a delightful contrast of textures, from the crisp edges of the outside to the moist, flavorful center. Each bite evokes memories of family gatherings and gratitude, making it a quintessential part of the Thanksgiving feast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Thanksgiving stuffing is a testament to the simplicity of good ingredients coming together to create depth of flavor. The mix of fresh herbs, sautéed onions, and celery adds a beautiful aromatic complexity, while the bread absorbs the rich broth, resulting in a moist interior with a crunchy top. It’s not just filling; it’s comforting, hugging the palate with warmth and nostalgia. What’s more, leftovers are even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop, making it perfect for turkey sandwiches or as a side for a cozy breakfast. This stuffing is versatile, inviting endless adaptations, yet it retains the classic essence that makes it special.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Ingredients List
- 1 loaf of day-old bread (about 10 cups cubed, preferably a mix of white and whole grain)
- 1 cup yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1 cup diced apples or nuts for added texture
Kitchen Tools
Cooking this stuffing requires straightforward tools that help you keep things tidy and efficient. With just a few essentials, you can prepare a dish that’s as delicious as it is comforting.
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet
- Baking dish (9×13 inch)
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and helps develop a lovely golden crust on top of the stuffing.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant. The mixture should be translucent and slightly golden.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread, sautéed vegetables, fresh parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to ensure the bread is coated evenly with the herbs and vegetables.
- Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, mixing until the bread is moistened but not soggy. The texture should be cohesive and slightly clumpy, holding together without being overly wet.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Use the back of a spoon to create a few gentle indentations on the top, which will allow for extra crispiness during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp. The aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling that it’s nearly time to feast.
Pro Tips
- For deeper flavor, consider using a mixture of fresh herbs instead of dried whenever possible.
- If you want a bit of sweetness, add diced apples or dried cranberries to the stuffing.
- You can make the stuffing ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just remember to add a bit more broth before baking to keep it moist.
- Ensure your bread is day-old for the best texture. Fresh bread can become too mushy.
Thanksgiving Warmth, Made Simple
This traditional Thanksgiving stuffing embodies the heart of the holiday season. With its balanced flavors and comforting textures, it enhances any festive meal. As you gather around the table, this dish serves not only as a side but as a reminder of the warmth and togetherness that defines Thanksgiving. It proves that good food, prepared with love, can create lasting memories and joyous occasions.
Nutration Table
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Thanksgiving Stuffing
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf day-old bread (about 10 cups cubed, preferably a mix of white and whole grain) Ensure the bread is day-old for the best texture.
- 1 cup yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick) Melted in the skillet.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth Add gradually to moisten bread.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped For freshness.
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup diced apples or nuts (optional) For added texture.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread, sautéed vegetables, fresh parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss gently.
- Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, mixing until the bread is moistened but not soggy.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly and creating gentle indentations on the top.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.
Notes
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