Get ready to revolutionize your holiday feast with the most mouthwatering, life-changing stuffing recipe that will have your guests begging for seconds! This isn't just another boring side dish – this is the stuffing that will become the star of your Thanksgiving table. With a perfect blend of crispy edges, soft center, and flavor-packed ingredients, this easy recipe will transform your holiday cooking from ordinary to extraordinary in just a few simple steps.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf bread, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons thyme
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- If using fresh bread, cube the bread into roughly 1-inch pieces and spread them out on a baking sheet. If the bread is not day-old, toast the cubes in the oven for 10 minutes to dry them out slightly, which helps absorb the flavors better.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and celery, sautéing until they become soft and translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add thyme, salt, and pepper to the sautéed vegetables, stirring to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Pour the sautéed vegetable mixture over the bread cubes.
- Gradually add chicken broth to the bread mixture, gently folding to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid without becoming too soggy. The bread should be moist but not saturated.
- Transfer the stuffing mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake covered for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to create a crispy golden top.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
Tips
- • Use day-old bread or slightly toast fresh bread cubes to help them absorb flavors and maintain the ideal texture • Don't oversaturate the bread – add chicken broth gradually to achieve the perfect moisture level • For extra flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth or adding herbs like sage or rosemary • Make sure to sauté your vegetables thoroughly to develop a rich, deep flavor • Cover the dish initially to keep the stuffing moist, then uncover to create a crispy golden top • Let the stuffing rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together • For a make-ahead option, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and bake before serving
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 217kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 22mg
