Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, delicious food. One of the most beloved dishes on the Thanksgiving table is stuffing. This savory side dish is the perfect complement to turkey and other holiday staples. Whether you call it stuffing or dressing, the key to a great version is a combination of the right ingredients and proper technique. In this recipe, we will guide you through making an easy and delicious Thanksgiving stuffing that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients for Easy Thanksgiving Stuffing
- 1 loaf of day-old bread (about 1 pound), cubed
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make Easy Thanksgiving Stuffing
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
- Cube the Bread: Cut the loaf of day-old bread into small, bite-sized cubes. Spread the cubes out on a baking sheet and leave them out overnight to dry. Alternatively, you can dry them in a 250°F (120°C) oven for about 20-30 minutes, tossing occasionally.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- Melt the Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and celery to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and translucent, about 10 minutes.
- Add the Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, dried sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
- Mix Bread and Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried bread cubes with the cooked vegetable mixture. Toss until the bread is evenly coated with the butter and vegetable mixture.
- Add the Broth and Eggs: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and beaten eggs. Stir gently to combine, ensuring all the bread cubes are moistened. The mixture should be moist but not soggy. If it seems too dry, add a bit more broth, a few tablespoons at a time.
Step 4: Bake the Stuffing
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer to a Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the stuffing mixture into the dish. Spread it out evenly and press down gently.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the stuffing from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm.
About the Main Ingredients
Bread
The foundation of any good stuffing is the bread. Using day-old or slightly stale bread is essential because it absorbs the flavors of the other ingredients without becoming too mushy. You can use any type of bread you prefer, such as white, whole wheat, or a rustic artisan loaf. Cubing the bread and drying it out ensures it will soak up the broth and butter mixture evenly, resulting in a perfectly textured stuffing.
Butter
Butter adds richness and flavor to the stuffing. It helps sauté the vegetables and herbs, infusing them with a delicious buttery taste that permeates the entire dish. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the stuffing, ensuring it is perfectly seasoned.
Vegetables
Onions and celery are classic vegetables used in stuffing for their flavor and texture. They provide a savory base and a slight crunch that complements the soft bread. Finely chopping the vegetables ensures they cook evenly and blend well with the other ingredients.
Garlic and Herbs
Garlic, sage, thyme, and rosemary are traditional herbs used in Thanksgiving stuffing. Garlic adds a robust, aromatic flavor, while the herbs provide earthy and savory notes that are characteristic of classic stuffing. Using dried herbs is convenient and ensures a consistent flavor, but you can substitute fresh herbs if you prefer.
Broth
Broth is essential for moistening the bread and bringing all the flavors together. Chicken broth is commonly used, but vegetable broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian stuffing. Adding the broth gradually allows you to achieve the desired consistency—moist but not soggy.
Eggs
Eggs act as a binding agent in the stuffing, helping to hold the mixture together and giving it a cohesive texture. Beating the eggs before adding them ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the stuffing.
Fresh Parsley
Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, bright flavor that balances the richness of the stuffing. It is typically added as a garnish just before serving to enhance the dish’s presentation and taste.
In conclusion, making an easy and delicious Thanksgiving stuffing is all about using quality ingredients and following simple steps. By preparing the bread properly, sautéing the vegetables and herbs, and combining everything with broth and eggs, you can create a stuffing that is flavorful, moist, and perfect for your holiday table. This recipe is sure to become a favorite tradition in your household, bringing comfort and joy to your Thanksgiving celebrations for years to come.
