Created on December 1st, 2025 at 08:48 am
A comforting accompaniment to elevate any holiday meal
What can be more inviting than a bowl of classic stuffing wafting with warm aromas of herbs and savory goodness? This dish is a staple at family gatherings and festive celebrations, often nestled beside the main course, ready to soak up the rich flavors of gravy. Each bite delivers a delightful mix of textures; the crisp edges contrasting with the tender, buttery interior. The golden-brown color is inviting, hinting at the delicious herbs and seasonings that blend seamlessly into the bread. Classic stuffing strikes the perfect balance between comfort and nostalgia, reminding us of family traditions and the warmth of home-cooked meals.
This stuffing is versatile, made to suit various palates and preferences. You can enjoy it with roasted turkey on Thanksgiving or as a side for pork and chicken any time of year. With its balance of flavors and comforting aroma, this classic recipe not only completes your meal but also provides leftovers that are delicious in their own right, perfect for sandwiches or a hearty breakfast. Each forkful brings a sense of warmth that feels like a hug from the inside, making it a truly special addition to any table.
Why This Recipe Works
This classic stuffing recipe stands out for its simplicity and reliability. It combines just a handful of fresh ingredients, creating a dish that is both heartfelt and satisfying. The herbs infuse the bread with a fragrant aroma as it cooks, transforming the kitchen into a haven of comforting scents. The use of broth and butter together ensures that the stuffing remains moist and flavorful, penetrated with the savory profile that speaks to home cooking.
Moreover, this recipe easily adapts to personal preferences. Whether you prefer a hint of sweetness with dried fruit or a touch of warmth with sausage, you can modify it to please your guests and family. The leftovers are just as delightful, lending themselves to creative meals the next day—be it as a filling for a robust breakfast scramble or simply reheated on the stove. This flexibility makes classic stuffing not just a dish for special occasions, but one that can brighten up any ordinary day.
Time Breakdown
Classic stuffing is straightforward and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy cooks. Most of the time involves simple chopping and mixing, with minimal hands-on time required. Here’s how it breaks down:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients List
- 1 loaf of day-old sourdough or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup (≈150 g) unsalted butter (for cooking)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2–3 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cups (≈480 ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 Tbsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 Tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1 cup diced cooked sausage, for added flavor
- Optional: 1 cup dried cranberries or apples for sweetness
Kitchen Tools
This recipe uses basic kitchen tools that keep preparation simple and relaxing. You likely have these on hand, making the process effortless.
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Knife
Step-by-Step Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As the oven warms, you can focus on preparing the bread, which should be cut into cubes and allowed to sit out for a bit, ensuring they are stale enough to soak up the flavors without becoming soggy.
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the diced onion and celery, cooking for 4–5 minutes. You want them to soften and turn fragrant, inviting a warmth into the kitchen.
Remove from heat and stir in the sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. The combination of these herbs will invite an aromatic scent into the air, making it even more evident that something delicious is on the way.
Pour the mixture over the bread cubes in the large mixing bowl. Add the broth in increments, ensuring the bread is evenly moistened but not saturated. If you’re using sausage or dried fruits, fold them in now for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Transfer the stuffing into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. This initial stage helps the stuffing to steam and bind together.
After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes. This will crisp the top beautifully while keeping the inside tender. The result should be a lovely golden-brown crust that promises a satisfying crunch with each scoop.
Pro Tips
- For best results, use day-old bread; it absorbs the broth better.
- Allow the stuffing to cool slightly before serving; this will help the flavors settle.
- Add sliced mushrooms for an earthy taste.
- For a hint of sweetness, include dried fruits like raisins or apricots.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container; they can easily be reheated for the next meal.
A Timeless Classic
Classic stuffing embodies the heart of home cooking with its warm flavors and soul-soothing qualities. It brings a sense of familiarity and comfort, reminding us of holiday gatherings and shared meals. The ease of preparation makes it a welcome addition for any occasion, from festive feasts to casual dinners. Whip up this recipe when you need a cozy side that feels like a hug on a plate. Each bite is a testament to the beauty of simple, good food.
Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 400 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.
Classic Stuffing
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf loaf of day-old sourdough or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes Use day-old bread for best results.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (for cooking)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2–3 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth Use in increments to moisten the bread.
- 1 Tbsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 Tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup diced cooked sausage, for added flavor Optional.
- 1 cup dried cranberries or apples for sweetness Optional.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the bread into cubes and let it sit out for a while.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking for 4–5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Add the broth gradually to moisten the bread evenly.
- Add the sausage or dried fruits if using, and fold them in gently.
- Transfer the stuffing into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Baking
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes to crisp the top.
Notes
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