Ah, Classic Bread Stuffing—it’s like a warm hug on your plate, especially during the holiday season! I can still remember the aroma wafting through my kitchen as we prepared for family gatherings. This stuffing is a staple at our Thanksgiving table, and I just love how it brings everyone together. The crunchy, golden top gives way to a soft, herby center that’s just bursting with flavor. Every spoonful is a reminder of cozy family moments and laughter around the dinner table. Trust me, once you master this recipe, it’ll become your go-to side dish for any festive occasion. It’s simple, comforting, and simply irresistible!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to whip up the most delightful Classic Bread Stuffing. Trust me, having everything prepped and ready makes the process a breeze!
- 10 cups cubed bread
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How to Prepare Classic Bread Stuffing
Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making this classic bread stuffing! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious side dish that everyone will rave about. I promise, it’s easier than it looks, and the smell alone will have your family gathering around the kitchen!
Step 1 – Preheat Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it helps the stuffing cook evenly and get that lovely golden brown crust on top. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Step 2 – Sauté Vegetables
Next, grab a large skillet and melt that butter over medium heat. Once it’s nice and bubbly, toss in the chopped onion and celery. You’ll want to sauté these for about 5-7 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. The aroma will be heavenly, and it’s my favorite part of the process!
Step 3 – Combine Ingredients
Now, in a large bowl, combine your cubed bread with the sautéed veggies and those fragrant herbs. Make sure to mix everything thoroughly! You want the herbs and vegetables to be evenly distributed throughout the bread. This is where the magic happens!
Step 4 – Add Broth
Time to pour in the chicken broth! Drizzle it over the mixture, and gently stir until everything is fully combined. The bread should soak up that delicious broth, making it nice and moist. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there if you need to; just make sure it’s all well mixed!
Step 5 – Transfer and Bake
Now for the final steps! Transfer your stuffing mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until it’s golden brown on top. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen starts smelling like the holidays!
Tips for Success
Now, let’s chat about some tips to ensure your Classic Bread Stuffing turns out absolutely perfect! I’ve learned a few tricks along the way that really make a difference, and I can’t wait to share them with you.
- Choose Your Bread Wisely: You can use any type of bread, but I recommend a hearty loaf like sourdough or French bread. It adds great texture and flavor. Just make sure it’s a bit stale or lightly toasted, so it soaks up the broth without getting mushy!
- Herb Freshness: Fresh herbs can elevate your stuffing to another level! If you happen to have fresh sage or thyme on hand, feel free to substitute them in place of the dried ones. Just remember to use about three times the amount—fresh herbs are milder than dried.
- Add Some Protein: For a heartier stuffing, consider adding cooked sausage or even diced cooked chicken. It gives a lovely richness and flavor that makes it even more satisfying. Just sauté it along with the onions and celery!
- Don’t Skimp on the Broth: If you want your stuffing to be moist and flavorful, don’t be shy with the broth! If it seems a little dry after mixing, just add a splash more. You want it to be nicely saturated but not swimming!
- Make Ahead: This stuffing is perfect for making ahead of time! You can prepare it the day before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready, and you’ll have a hot, delicious side dish with minimal fuss!
- Tweak to Your Taste: Feel free to play around with the spices! A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper can add a unique twist. Experimenting is half the fun!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Classic Bread Stuffing that everyone will talk about long after the meal is over. Happy cooking!
Variations of Classic Bread Stuffing
If you’re looking to shake things up a bit, there are so many delicious variations of Classic Bread Stuffing to try! Personalizing this dish not only adds unique flavors but also makes it even more special for your gatherings. Here are some of my favorite twists that I think you’ll love!
- Sausage Stuffing: Adding cooked sausage is a game changer! It brings a savory richness that pairs beautifully with the herbs. Just brown some sausage in the skillet before adding the onions and celery, and you’ll have a stuffing that packs a flavorful punch!
- Apple and Walnut: For a touch of sweetness and crunch, toss in some diced apples and chopped walnuts. The sweet-tart apples complement the savory elements perfectly, giving a delightful contrast in every bite.
- Cranberry and Pecan: Dried cranberries add a lovely burst of tartness, while pecans give a nice crunch. This variation is especially festive and adds a pop of color to your dish. Just fold in about a cup of each before you bake!
- Mushroom and Herb: If you’re a mushroom lover, sauté some chopped mushrooms along with the onions and celery for an earthy flavor boost. You can also mix in different fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary to enhance the taste.
- Vegetarian Delight: For a vegetarian version, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and feel free to add in some sautéed bell peppers or spinach for extra veggies. It’s a great way to make it a little lighter while still being super satisfying!
- Spicy Jalapeño: If you like a little heat, add some diced jalapeños to the mix! It gives the stuffing a nice kick and pairs wonderfully with the traditional flavors. Just be cautious with the amount, unless you’re feeling brave!
Don’t be afraid to get creative! This Classic Bread Stuffing is a fantastic base that welcomes all sorts of flavors. Each variation can turn it into a signature dish that reflects your taste and style. Enjoy experimenting and finding your favorite combo!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional data for a serving of Classic Bread Stuffing. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose, but this will give you a general idea of what to expect!
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 4g
This Classic Bread Stuffing is not only delicious but also a great addition to your holiday meal in moderation. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making the perfect Classic Bread Stuffing? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my trusty answers to help you out.
Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly, and when you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. This will ensure it heats evenly and comes out perfectly!
How should I store leftover stuffing?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat stuffing?
Reheating is easy! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and place the stuffing in a greased baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist, and heat for about 20-25 minutes. If you like it a bit crispy on top, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
Can I use other types of bread?
Definitely! While I love a good crusty sourdough or French bread, you can use any bread you have on hand—white, whole wheat, or even cornbread for a twist! Just make sure it’s a bit stale or toasted so it holds up in the broth.
Is it possible to make this stuffing vegetarian?
Of course! Simply swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’re all set! You can also add extra veggies, like bell peppers or spinach, to keep things interesting and delicious.
What herbs work best in stuffing?
While sage and thyme are the classics, feel free to experiment! Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley can add a lovely touch. Just remember to adjust the amounts since fresh herbs are milder than dried.
If you have more questions or need help with anything else, just reach out! I’m here to help you make the best Classic Bread Stuffing for your gatherings!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Classic Bread Stuffing is more than just a side dish—it’s a heartfelt tradition that adds warmth and flavor to any holiday feast. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:
- Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip this up, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen!
- Flavorful and Aromatic: The combination of herbs and sautéed vegetables creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen and makes everyone feel at home.
- Customizable: You can easily tailor it to your taste by adding your favorite ingredients, whether it’s sausage, nuts, or seasonal veggies.
- Perfect for Batch Cooking: This stuffing is great for making ahead of time, which makes holiday prep a breeze. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready!
- Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a classic side dish that everyone loves, making it a must-have for family gatherings, potlucks, or Thanksgiving dinners.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Every bite brings back memories of cozy family meals, making it the perfect comfort food to share with loved ones.
Trust me, once you serve this Classic Bread Stuffing, it’ll quickly become a cherished part of your holiday traditions, just like it is in my home!
Print
Classic Bread Stuffing: 5 Secrets for Cozy Perfection
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic bread stuffing made with herbs and vegetables.
Ingredients
- 10 cups cubed bread
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add onion and celery, sauté until soft.
- In a large bowl, combine cubed bread, sautéed vegetables, and herbs.
- Pour chicken broth over the mixture and stir until combined.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- You can use any type of bread.
- Add cooked sausage for extra flavor.
- This stuffing can be made ahead and refrigerated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Classic Bread Stuffing, stuffing recipe, Thanksgiving stuffing