This Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing is a warm mix of bread, herbs, and spices, bringing all the cozy vibes to your holiday table. It’s stuffing at its finest, and yes, it’s super tasty!
There’s something special about the smell of this coming out of the oven. I always sneak a taste before serving—who could resist? 🦃 Just remember to save some for the turkey!
I love how easy this recipe is to make with simple ingredients. You can get it ready ahead of time and enjoy more time with family. Perfect for making Thanksgiving stress-free!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crusty Bread: Stale or day-old bread adds texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can use any bread you have on hand, but a sturdy one like sourdough or French is best. Gluten-free bread works too if you need a gluten-free option!
Butter: Unsalted butter is the classic choice to control saltiness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, olive oil can be a good substitute. Just know that it may change the flavor slightly.
Onion & Celery: These veggies add moisture and flavor. If you’re short on either, leeks or shallots can be great alternatives. Plus, adding a bit of diced carrot can enhance sweetness!
Herbs: Fresh herbs are wonderful if you have them, but dried work just as well. If you need to replace herbs, consider using Italian seasoning as a shortcut.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth lets you control the salt level in your stuffing. Vegetable broth is a great substitute if you want a vegetarian option!
How Do I Make Sure My Stuffing is Moist but Not Soggy?
Getting the right texture is key! Here are some tips to ensure your stuffing is moist yet light:
- Use dried bread cubes as your base. They soak up the liquid without turning mushy.
- Gradually add broth while mixing. This way, you can control the moisture level better. It’s easier to add more broth than to fix sogginess!
- The stuffing should feel damp but still hold its shape when you press it. If you’re unsure, do a little test with a small spoonful.
And remember, if it’s still too wet after baking, it can always be served as a moist side rather than a sliceable stuffing!
How to Make Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 loaf (about 1 pound) of crusty bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (preferably a day or two old)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups yellow onion, finely chopped (about 2 medium onions)
- 2 cups celery, finely chopped (about 4-5 stalks)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried sage (or 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped)
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 to 2 ½ cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Optional: 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, toasted
- Optional: 1 cup dried cranberries or raisins
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing recipe takes about 20 minutes to prep and around 1 hour total to cook, including baking time. You’ll have the stuffing ready to serve alongside your turkey in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread:
First, preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Spread the bread cubes out on a baking sheet. Bake them for about 30-40 minutes until they’re dried out, but keep an eye on them so they don’t brown. Once done, take them out of the oven and let them cool.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and celery. Sauté for about 8-10 minutes until they’re soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Remove from heat.
3. Mix the Herbs and Bread:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried bread cubes with the cooked veggies and butter mixture. Add in the parsley, sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Gently toss everything together until well mixed.
4. Add Broth and Eggs:
Gradually pour the chicken broth over the bread mixture as you stir gently. You want the bread to be moist but not soggy. After adding the broth, mix in the beaten eggs and combine everything evenly. Feel free to adjust the broth to achieve your desired moisture level.
5. Add Optional Ingredients:
If you’re using nuts or dried fruits, fold them into the mixture at this stage. They add extra flavor and texture to your stuffing!
6. Bake the Stuffing:
Transfer everything into a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish. Press it down gently to make it even. Cover the dish loosely with foil.
7. Bake:
Place the stuffed dish in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.
8. Serve:
Once done, garnish with fresh herbs if you’d like and serve it warm alongside your Thanksgiving turkey and other holiday sides. Enjoy every delicious bite!
With this Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing, you’re sure to fill the room with wonderful aromas and delicious flavors. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Store-Bought Bread for This Stuffing?
Absolutely! Store-bought bread is convenient, but make sure it’s a sturdy loaf, like a baguette or sourdough, so it holds up well when mixed with the broth. If it’s fresh, let it sit out for a day to dry out a bit before using.
How Can I Make This Stuffing Vegetarian?
You can easily make this stuffing vegetarian by substituting chicken broth with vegetable broth. All other ingredients remain the same, so you can keep those delicious flavors!
What Herbs Are Best for Stuffing?
Traditionally, sage, thyme, and rosemary are popular choices, but feel free to experiment! Herbs like oregano, parsley, or even a bit of dill can also add unique flavors to your stuffing.
Can I Prepare This Stuffing in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day ahead! Assemble it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. On the day of serving, just pop it in the oven to bake as directed. If it seems a little dry, add a splash of broth before baking.
