Semi-homemade stuffing is a fantastic addition to any Thanksgiving feast. This recipe combines the convenience of store-bought stuffing mix with the flavors of fresh herbs and vegetables. It’s a time-saving dish that doesn’t compromise on taste, making it perfect for busy holiday cooks. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious semi-homemade stuffing.
Ingredients for Semi-Homemade Stuffing
- 1 package (16 ounces) of store-bought stuffing mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 stalks of celery, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- Additional broth or water as needed
How to Make Semi-Homemade Stuffing
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and celery to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, chopped sage, and thyme leaves to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Stir in the package of stuffing mix until well combined with the vegetable mixture.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and stir until the liquid is absorbed by the stuffing mix. Add more broth or water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Season the stuffing with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Transfer the stuffing mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
- Serve the semi-homemade stuffing warm alongside your Thanksgiving turkey and other favorite sides.
About the Main Ingredients
- Stuffing Mix: Using a store-bought stuffing mix saves time and effort, making this recipe quick and easy to prepare. Look for a mix that includes a blend of breadcrumbs and seasonings for the best flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: The addition of fresh sage and thyme adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the stuffing. If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, you can use dried herbs instead, but use them sparingly as they are more potent.
- Vegetables: Onion, celery, and garlic form the aromatic base of this stuffing, providing savory flavors and a satisfying texture.
- Butter and Broth: Butter adds richness to the stuffing, while chicken or vegetable broth provides moisture and helps bind the ingredients together.
This semi-homemade stuffing is sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving table. Enjoy the convenience of a pre-made mix with the delicious flavors of fresh herbs and vegetables.
