Classic Thanksgiving Stuffing: A Perfectly Savory Side with Crispy, Golden Top
Ah, stuffing—it's one of those dishes that always feels like a warm hug on Thanksgiving.
There's something incredibly comforting about combining soft bread with aromatic herbs, celery, onions, and just the right amount of seasoning. This classic stuffing recipe has been a part of my Thanksgiving celebrations for years, and it’s always the first dish to disappear from the table.
The crispy top layer, combined with the soft, savory center, creates the perfect balance of textures. Whether you serve it alongside turkey or enjoy it as a stand-alone comfort food, this stuffing never disappoints.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8-10
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread (about 12-14 cups cubed)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped apples or dried cranberries for a sweet twist
Instructions:
- Prep the bread: Begin by cutting the bread into cubes, about 1-inch in size. If you want a more rustic stuffing, feel free to tear the bread by hand. Lay the bread cubes out on a baking sheet in a single layer and toast them in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy. This step helps ensure the stuffing doesn't get too soggy. Once toasted, set the bread aside to cool.
- Cook the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. You’ll want them to be tender but not browned.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the toasted bread cubes. Pour the sautéed vegetables and any melted butter into the bowl. Toss everything together so the bread soaks up the buttery veggie goodness. Add in the fresh herbs, salt, and pepper, and mix again.
- Add the liquid: In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and eggs. Pour the mixture over the bread and vegetable mixture, tossing gently to combine. If you like your stuffing a little wetter, you can add more broth, one tablespoon at a time, until you get your desired consistency. You want it to be moist but not swimming in liquid.
- Bake the stuffing: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly and press it down gently to pack it into the pan. For that beautiful crispy top, bake the stuffing uncovered in a 350°F oven for 30-45 minutes. The top should be golden brown and crispy, while the inside stays soft and flavorful.
- Optional: Add-ins: If you want to elevate your stuffing, consider adding in 1/2 cup of chopped apples or dried cranberries for a sweet contrast to the savory elements. You can also stir in cooked sausage or bacon for a heartier stuffing. The options are endless, so feel free to get creative!
Tips & Tricks:
- Day-old bread is best: Using slightly stale bread gives the stuffing the perfect texture. If you don’t have day-old bread, simply leave the fresh bread out for a few hours before you cube it. Alternatively, you can cut it up and toast it to achieve the same result.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the stuffing the day before and store it in the refrigerator, covered. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature before popping it in the oven.
- Don't over-wet: It’s tempting to add more broth than you think you need, but resist! The stuffing will soak up the liquid as it bakes, and you don’t want it to be soggy.
- Herb choices: Feel free to experiment with herbs. If you love rosemary or thyme, go ahead and add those in. Fresh herbs, in particular, give this stuffing a fresh and fragrant flavor.
Conclusion:
This classic stuffing recipe is a Thanksgiving staple that never fails to impress.
The combination of toasted bread, sautéed veggies, and fresh herbs creates the ultimate savory side dish.
Whether you bake it in the oven for that crispy top or stuff it inside the turkey (as many do for a more traditional approach), this stuffing will always be the highlight of the meal.
It’s the perfect complement to turkey and all the other festive dishes on your holiday table. Enjoy!