Get ready to transform your holiday meal from ordinary to extraordinary with this mouthwatering stuffing recipe that's been passed down through generations! This isn't just another side dish – it's a culinary hug that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine the perfect blend of crispy bread, savory herbs, and rich buttery goodness that captures the essence of home-cooked comfort. Whether you're preparing for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just craving a taste of nostalgia, this stuffing recipe is your ticket to becoming the kitchen hero everyone will praise!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf bread, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- Cut the loaf of bread into small, even cubes. Spread the bread cubes on a large baking sheet and let them dry out at room temperature for about 1 hour, or use slightly stale bread for better texture.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and celery, sautéing until the vegetables are soft and translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried bread cubes, sautéed onions and celery, sage, salt, and pepper. Gently mix the ingredients to distribute evenly.
- Slowly pour the chicken broth over the bread mixture, stirring gently to moisten the bread without making it soggy. The stuffing should be moist but not wet.
- Transfer the stuffing mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes to allow the top to become golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the stuffing rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the stuffing to set.
Tips
- Bread Selection Matters: Use day-old bread or deliberately dry out fresh bread cubes to prevent a soggy stuffing. Slightly stale bread absorbs flavors better and creates a perfect texture.
- Don't Rush the Sautéing: Take your time caramelizing onions and celery. This builds deep, rich flavors that will elevate your entire dish.
- Moisture is Key: Add chicken broth gradually and gently mix. You want the stuffing moist but not wet – think of a perfectly damp sponge, not a soup!
- Customize Your Herbs: While sage is traditional, feel free to experiment with thyme, rosemary, or a blend of herbs to make the recipe your own.
- Covering with foil prevents over-browning and helps the stuffing cook evenly. Remove the foil in the last few minutes for that irresistible crispy top. Pro Chef Secret: Let the stuffing rest after baking. This allows flavors to meld and creates a more cohesive, delicious side dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
