This buttery Thanksgiving stuffing is just what you need to make your holiday special! It’s made with soft bread, rich butter, and a mix of spices that make it so tasty.
I love it because it pairs perfectly with turkey, and let’s be honest—who doesn’t sneak a spoonful or two when no one is looking? 😄
Making this stuffing is super easy. Just mix everything together, let it bake, and enjoy the warm, inviting aroma filling your kitchen. It’s pure comfort!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rustic White Bread: This is the base of your stuffing. Choose a sturdy bread that can hold up to the moisture. If you can’t find rustic white bread, sourdough or French bread works well too!
Unsalted Butter: Butter adds richness. You can substitute with olive oil or vegan butter if you prefer a dairy-free option. Just remember to adjust the salt level if using salted butter!
Onion and Celery: These veggies are essential for flavor. If you need a different taste, try leeks instead of onion, or bell peppers for a sweeter profile. Celery can’t be replaced exactly, but you can use carrots for a different crunch!
Herbs: Fresh herbs are the best, but dried herbs can work in a pinch. If you don’t have fresh sage or thyme, oregano or rosemary can add a nice twist. Use about a third of the amount if using dried.
Chicken Broth: This adds moisture and flavor. You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, or even stock made from bones for more depth. Water works too but can be less flavorful.
How Do I Get My Stuffing Just Right Without It Being Soggy?
Getting the perfect stuffing texture is key, so let’s focus on moisture control. It’s all about balancing! Here’s how to help your stuffing stay moist but not soggy:
- Toast the Bread: Baking the bread cubes first makes a big difference. It helps remove excess moisture and allows them to soak up the broth without becoming mushy.
- Gradually Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth slowly and mix it in. Start with 2 cups and check the texture. Add more if it feels dry, but don’t drown it!
- Check Before Baking: The stuffing should be moist but hold its shape when pressed. Adjust with more broth if needed right before it goes in the oven.
By following these tips, your stuffing will come out perfectly fluffy and flavorful every time!
Buttery Thanksgiving Stuffing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 loaf (about 1 pound) of rustic white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 to 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful stuffing takes about 20 minutes of prep time and around 45-55 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes to create this delicious side dish for your Thanksgiving feast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Bread:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the cubed rustic bread on a large baking sheet. Bake the bread cubes for about 15-20 minutes until they become dry and slightly toasted—just avoid browning them too much! Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Next, take a large skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and celery. Sauté these until they are softened and translucent—around 7-10 minutes is perfect. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant. Your kitchen should be smelling amazing by now!
3. Combining Ingredients:
In a very large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the sautéed vegetable mixture, fresh parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Gently toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly mixed.
4. Adding the Broth:
Now, gradually pour the chicken broth over your bread mixture. Stir gently to moisten all the bread cubes. Start with 2 cups of broth and add more if necessary. Remember, the bread should be moist but not soggy, so add broth to your desired consistency.
5. Baking the Stuffing:
Transfer your stuffing mixture into a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly. Cover the dish with foil and put it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for another 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
6. Serving Your Stuffing:
Once baked to perfection, remove the stuffing from the oven. For a lovely presentation, you can garnish it with a fresh sprig of rosemary or thyme. Serve it warm as a delicious side dish that everyone will enjoy!
Enjoy your rich, buttery, and herbaceous Thanksgiving stuffing that will surely be a hit at your holiday table!
Can I Use Different Bread for This Stuffing?
Absolutely! While rustic white bread gives a nice texture, you can substitute it with sourdough, French bread, or even cornbread. Just make sure the bread can hold up to the moisture!
Can I Make This Stuffing Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Simply follow the instructions up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. On Thanksgiving, bake it fresh for about 30-35 minutes until heated through!
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Broth?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works perfectly! You could also use a homemade stock or even water, but the broth adds much more flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Stuffing?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can add a splash of broth to keep it moist!
