Homemade Stuffing Recipe

Homemade Stuffing Recipe is a timeless classic that breathes life into any festive gathering, especially during Thanksgiving. This recipe combines the warmth of stale bread cubes with the savory notes of onions and celery sautéed in rich butter, creating an aromatic delight. With fragrant herbs and a splash of broth, this stuffing is sure to impress your guests. It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of butter, herbs, and sautéed vegetables creates a rich taste that enhances any meal.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, making Homemade Stuffing is easy—even for novice cooks!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like sausage or nuts for a unique twist.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This stuffing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge, making it ideal for busy holidays.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: It easily serves six but can be doubled to feed a larger gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this delightful Homemade Stuffing Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures everything goes smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Baking dish
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing onions and celery until they are tender and flavorful.
• Baking dish: Needed to bake your stuffing to golden perfection in the oven.

Ingredients

For the Bread Base

• 12 cups Stale White Bread – cut into 1 inch cubes (approx 1 lb 4 oz loaf of bread – see notes below for details)

For Sautéing

• 3/4 cup plus 2 tbsp butter (divided)
• 1 large yellow or white onion (chopped)
• 2 cups celery, chopped (stalks and leaves!)

For Flavoring

• 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp poultry seasoning
• 1/2 tsp marjoram
• 3 Tbsp (heaping) fresh sage, chopped
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped (Curly or Italian will work)

For Binding

• 2 eggs
• 1 cup chicken broth or stock

How to Make Homemade Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Cubes

Begin by cutting your stale bread into 1-inch cubes. Spread them out on a baking sheet and let them dry out for about an hour at room temperature. If you’re short on time, you can also toast them in a low oven for about 15 minutes until they are slightly crisp.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3/4 cup of butter. Add the chopped onion and celery to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried bread cubes with the sautéed onion and celery mixture. Add salt, pepper, poultry seasoning, marjoram, sage, parsley, eggs, and chicken broth. Mix everything well until combined.

Step 4: Bake Your Stuffing

Transfer your mixture into a greased baking dish. Dot with remaining butter on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Once baked, let your Homemade Stuffing rest for a few minutes before serving. This side dish pairs beautifully with turkey or any roasted meat!

How to Serve Homemade Stuffing Recipe

Homemade stuffing is a versatile side dish that can complement various meals. Whether you’re serving it during the holidays or at a family gathering, there are many delicious ways to enjoy this classic recipe.

With Roasted Turkey

• Pair your homemade stuffing with a perfectly roasted turkey for a traditional Thanksgiving feast.

As a Side for Grilled Chicken

• Serve the stuffing alongside grilled chicken for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

In a Casserole Dish

• Layer your homemade stuffing in a casserole dish and top it with cheese for an indulgent twist.

Stuffed Peppers

• Use leftover stuffing to fill bell peppers and bake them for a hearty meal that’s packed with flavor.

With Green Bean Almondine

• Balance the richness of stuffing with a fresh green bean almondine salad for added crunch and brightness.

On Top of Salad

• Crumble leftover stuffing on top of mixed greens for an unexpected and tasty salad topping.

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How to Perfect Homemade Stuffing Recipe

To achieve the best homemade stuffing, follow these helpful tips that will elevate your dish to perfection.

• Use Stale Bread: Stale bread absorbs more broth without becoming mushy, ensuring your stuffing has the perfect texture.
• Sauté Vegetables Thoroughly: Cooking onions and celery until they are soft enhances their flavors, making your stuffing more delicious.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your mixture before baking and adjust the salt and spices according to your preference.
• Consider Broth Temperature: Adding warm broth helps to evenly distribute moisture throughout the stuffing.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine ingredients to avoid breaking down the bread too much, which keeps the texture intact.
• Rest Before Serving: Allowing your stuffing to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Stuffing Recipe

Homemade stuffing pairs beautifully with several side dishes. Here are some excellent choices that will round out your meal:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting addition alongside stuffing.
2. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of homemade stuffing.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crisp-tender Brussels sprouts bring brightness and depth, complementing the rich taste of stuffing.
4. Sweet Potato Casserole: This sweet dish adds an unexpected twist, balancing out savory flavors wonderfully.
5. Macaroni and Cheese: A cheesy comfort food favorite that pairs well with the heartiness of homemade stuffing.
6. Honey Glazed Carrots: The sweetness from honey-glazed carrots can enhance the overall flavor profile of your Thanksgiving plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making homemade stuffing can be a delight, but there are common mistakes that can turn your dish into a disaster. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Skipping Stale Bread: Using fresh bread can result in mushy stuffing. Opt for stale bread cubes to ensure your stuffing holds its shape.
• Overloading with Broth: While moisture is key, too much broth can make your stuffing soggy. Add broth gradually until you achieve the desired consistency.
• Ignoring Seasoning: A bland stuffing is disappointing. Make sure to season generously with salt, pepper, and herbs for a flavorful outcome.
• Not Letting It Rest: Rushing straight from oven to table can affect the texture. Allow your stuffing to rest for a few minutes before serving for optimal flavor.
• Forgetting About Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate your stuffing. Don’t skip them; they add depth and aroma that transforms the dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store unused homemade stuffing in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Homemade Stuffing Recipe

• Freeze stuffing in portions for easy reheating.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers; it will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Homemade Stuffing Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bread for homemade stuffing?

The best bread for homemade stuffing is stale white or sourdough bread. The drier texture helps it absorb flavors without becoming mushy.

How do I make my homemade stuffing recipe gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread and ensure all other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.

Can I make homemade stuffing ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.

How do I customize my homemade stuffing recipe?

Feel free to add ingredients like sausage, nuts, or dried fruit for added flavor and texture. Fresh herbs can also enhance the taste significantly.

How do I prevent my stuffing from being dry?

Add broth gradually while mixing to achieve desired moisture without making it soggy. Also, consider covering it while baking to retain some steam.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Stuffing Recipe not only adds comfort and warmth to your holiday table but also offers endless customization options. From adding sausage to experimenting with different herbs, you can tailor this dish to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its delightful flavors!