Here’s a Thanksgiving recipe for Classic Stuffing (or Dressing)—a comforting, savory dish that pairs perfectly with turkey and is a staple on most holiday tables.
Classic Thanksgiving Stuffing
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf (about 12 cups) of stale or day-old bread (a rustic white bread or sourdough works best), cubed
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage (or 2 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (adjust for desired stuffing consistency)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup diced apples or dried cranberries for sweetness
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch
- 1/2 cup cooked sausage for extra richness
Instructions:
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Prepare the bread:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Cube the bread and spread it out on a baking sheet in an even layer. Toast in the oven for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the bread cubes are dry and lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
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Cook the vegetables:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and celery, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the dried sage, thyme, rosemary (if using), salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Assemble the stuffing:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes and the cooked vegetable mixture. If you’re using any optional add-ins, such as apples, nuts, or sausage, stir them in now.
- Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, a little at a time, until the bread is moist but not soggy. You may not need all the broth—adjust to your desired stuffing consistency.
- Stir in the beaten eggs, ensuring everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
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Bake the stuffing:
- Transfer the stuffing to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the top to crisp up and brown.
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Serve:
- Once baked, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This stuffing can be served alongside turkey or any other main dish of your Thanksgiving feast.
Tips for the Perfect Stuffing:
- If you prefer your stuffing extra crispy, you can bake it uncovered for the entire cooking time.
- For a more flavorful base, you can sauté the vegetables in a bit of olive oil or add a splash of white wine to the pan while cooking them.
- If making the stuffing ahead of time, you can assemble it the day before and store it in the fridge, then bake it when you're ready.
This classic stuffing is a beloved comfort food that’ll make your Thanksgiving meal feel complete and cozy!