Description
This classic savory stuffing recipe delivers perfectly fluffy and flavorful results, combining sautéed vegetables with aromatic herbs and moist bread cubes, baked to a golden perfection. Ideal as a comforting side dish for holiday meals or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Stuffing Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed (about 10 cups)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is hot enough to cook the stuffing evenly and create a crispy golden top.
- Sauté Vegetables: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, and sauté until they become soft and fragrant, approximately 5-7 minutes. This step builds foundational flavor for the stuffing.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes with the sautéed onion and celery. Sprinkle in the dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to infuse the mix with savory herbs.
- Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth gradually and mix well to moisten the bread evenly without making it soggy. The broth adds moisture and depth to the stuffing.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish lightly with butter or oil to prevent sticking. Transfer the stuffing mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly for consistent baking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the stuffing is heated through. Baking melds the flavors and crisps up the edges for texture contrast.
Notes
- Use stale or slightly dried bread for best texture; fresh bread may become too mushy.
- Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Adjust herbs according to preference; fresh herbs can be used but quantities should be doubled.
- For extra flavor, add cooked sausage, nuts, or dried cranberries.
- If you prefer a moister stuffing, add an additional 1/4 cup of broth.
- Cover with foil during baking for a softer texture, remove foil in last 10 minutes to crisp the top.
