There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of Classic Bread Stuffing wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? It’s one of those dishes that instantly takes me back to my childhood, sitting around the table during Thanksgiving, surrounded by family and laughter. I love how this stuffing, packed with bread, herbs, and spices, brings everything together on the plate. Trust me, it’s not just a side dish; it’s the heart of the meal. When I make it, I can’t help but sneak a spoonful or two before it hits the oven—it’s just that good! Let’s dive into making this cozy classic together!
Ingredients for Classic Bread Stuffing
- 10 cups of bread cubes (stale bread works best for texture)
- 1 cup of chopped onion (this adds a lovely sweetness)
- 1 cup of chopped celery (for that perfect crunch)
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (melted, because butter makes everything better!)
- 2 cups of chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tablespoon of dried sage (the classic herb for stuffing)
- 1 tablespoon of dried thyme (a fragrant addition that elevates the flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of salt (to enhance all those delicious tastes)
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper (for just a hint of spice)
- 2 eggs, beaten (to bind everything together beautifully)
How to Prepare Classic Bread Stuffing
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your stuffing cooks evenly and gets that delicious golden brown crust on top. So, let that oven warm up while you get everything else ready!
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Next up, grab a skillet and melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once it’s nice and bubbly, add in your chopped onion and celery. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and fragrant. This is where the magic begins! The aroma will have you dreaming of Thanksgiving already.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now, take a large bowl and toss in your bread cubes, followed by the sautéed veggies. Give it a gentle mix to combine everything. You want those bread cubes to soak up all the flavors from the onions and celery. Trust me, this is where the texture starts to come together beautifully!
Step 4: Add Seasonings and Broth
Next, pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the dried sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Don’t forget to add the beaten eggs too! Mix everything well until the bread is evenly coated and moist. You’re looking for a mixture that feels a bit like a soggy sponge—don’t worry, it’s supposed to be a little wet!
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Time to transfer your stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish. Make sure you grease it well—this helps prevent sticking and makes for easier serving later! Spread the stuffing out evenly with a spoon, so it cooks uniformly.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop that dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and crispy. Oh, the smell wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible! Just be careful when taking it out—let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy every bite of this comforting classic!
Tips for Success with Classic Bread Stuffing
Want to make your Classic Bread Stuffing truly unforgettable? Here are some of my top tips that always lead me to stuffing perfection!
- Use Stale Bread: Seriously, stale bread is your best friend here! It absorbs the broth better, giving you that amazing texture. If you forgot to let your bread go stale, just pop it in the oven for a few minutes to dry out.
- Adjust Seasonings: Don’t be shy with the herbs! Taste as you go and adjust the sage, thyme, and even add a pinch of garlic powder if you’re feeling adventurous. Everyone’s palate is different, so make it your own!
- Make it Ahead: You can totally prep your stuffing a day in advance. Just assemble everything, cover it tightly, and let those flavors meld overnight in the fridge. Pop it in the oven when you’re ready, and you’ll save time on the big day!
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to get creative! Diced apples, dried cranberries, or even nuts can add a delightful twist to your stuffing. Just remember to balance it out so the flavors complement each other.
- Keep it Moist: If you find your stuffing is a bit dry after baking, drizzle a little extra broth over the top before serving. It’ll bring it back to life and make it even more delicious!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be serving up a Classic Bread Stuffing that everyone will rave about. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for Classic Bread Stuffing. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so treat this as a general guide rather than a precise measurement.
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
So, whether you’re enjoying it on Thanksgiving or as a cozy weeknight side, you can feel good about adding this classic dish to your table! Just remember, every ingredient counts, so adjust to fit your dietary needs as you go along.
FAQ About Classic Bread Stuffing
Got questions about Classic Bread Stuffing? No worries! I’ve got you covered with some of the most common queries I hear. Let’s dive in!
Can I use any type of bread for stuffing?
Absolutely! While I love using rustic bread like sourdough or a hearty white bread, you can really get creative here. Just remember, the stale bread works best for that perfect texture. Feel free to mix and match!
Can I make Classic Bread Stuffing ahead of time?
You bet! I often prepare it a day in advance. Just assemble your stuffing, cover it tightly, and let those flavors meld overnight in the fridge. Then, pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. It saves time on the big day!
How do I know when the stuffing is done baking?
Great question! You’ll know your stuffing is ready when the top is golden brown and crispy. If you want to be extra sure, you can stick a fork or knife in the center; it should come out warm and not wet. Trust your nose too—the aroma will be heavenly!
Can I add other ingredients to my stuffing?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in diced apples, nuts, or even dried cranberries for a twist. Just be mindful to keep the balance of flavors so that everything works harmoniously together. Experimenting is half the fun!
Is Classic Bread Stuffing suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it is! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’re all set for a delicious vegetarian side dish. It’s a perfect addition to any holiday table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful stuffing in no time—perfect for busy holiday cooking!
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs, sautéed vegetables, and buttery bread creates a flavor explosion that complements any main dish.
- Comforting Classic: This recipe is a timeless favorite that brings warmth and nostalgia to your holiday table, making it a must-have for Thanksgiving and beyond.
- Versatile Side Dish: Whether served alongside turkey, chicken, or as a main vegetarian dish, this stuffing fits perfectly into any meal.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready, taking the stress out of mealtime!
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the seasonings to suit your palate—it’s all about making it your own!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your Classic Bread Stuffing ready to go, you might be wondering what to serve it with to create a truly delightful meal. Here are some of my favorite pairings that will complement this comforting dish perfectly!
- Roast Turkey: This is the classic combo for a reason! The savory stuffing pairs beautifully with the juicy flavors of roast turkey, making every bite a celebration.
- Glazed Ham: The sweetness of a glazed ham contrasts wonderfully with the herby notes of the stuffing. It’s a match made in heaven!
- Vegetarian Mushroom Wellington: For a vegetarian option, serve your stuffing alongside a rich and flaky mushroom Wellington. It’s a fantastic centerpiece that highlights the stuffing’s flavors.
- Cranberry Sauce: Don’t forget the tartness of cranberry sauce! A spoonful on top of the stuffing adds a delightful zing that brightens up your plate.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery garlic mashed potatoes are a perfect sidekick to your stuffing. The textures and flavors will have everyone asking for seconds!
- Green Bean Almondine: For a touch of green, serve it with sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds. The crunch adds a nice contrast to the soft stuffing.
Mix and match these suggestions based on your preferences, and you’ll create a beautiful and satisfying holiday spread that your friends and family will rave about! Enjoy every delicious moment together!
Print
Classic Bread Stuffing: 7 Secrets for Perfect Flavor
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic Bread Stuffing is a flavorful side dish made with bread, herbs, and seasonings.
Ingredients
- 10 cups of bread cubes
- 1 cup of chopped onion
- 1 cup of chopped celery
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon of dried sage
- 1 tablespoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and celery, sauté until soft.
- Combine bread cubes and sautéed vegetables in a large bowl.
- Add broth, sage, thyme, salt, pepper, and eggs. Mix well.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- Use stale bread for better texture.
- Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Stuffing can be made a day ahead and baked before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Classic Bread Stuffing, Thanksgiving Side Dish, Stuffing Recipe