Stuffing has been a beloved side dish for generations, especially during festive occasions like Thanksgiving. This easy stuffing recipe is a classic side dish, perfect for any meal. It’s made with a flavorful combination of sautéed onions, celery, and poultry seasoning, all mixed with dried bread cubes and chicken broth, then baked until golden and delicious. Each bite brings comfort and warmth, making it a must-have on your holiday table.

Why You’ll Love This Stuffing

This stuffing recipe is not just about flavor; it’s about creating memories. It’s a savory stuffing blend packed with the best stuffing ingredients for flavor. You’ll find it’s versatile, acting as a filling for turkey or as a side dish for chicken. Whether you choose traditional stuffing recipes for Thanksgiving or easy stuffing recipes for chicken, this dish caters to all. Plus, with vegetarian stuffing options for holidays, everyone can enjoy it. And if gluten is a concern, stuffing alternatives for gluten-free diets are easy to implement.

Ingredients for Stuffing

Gather these items:

2 small yellow onions, diced
4 ribs celery, diced
⅔ cup butter
1 ½ teaspoons poultry seasoning or ½ teaspoon ground sage
Black pepper, to taste
Salt, to taste
12 cups dry bread cubes
2 to 4 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or 2 teaspoons dried parsley
1 tablespoon fresh herbs (sage, thyme, rosemary), or 1 teaspoon dry herbs

How to Make Stuffing Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, celery, and poultry seasoning. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes. Let cool slightly.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, cooked onion mixture, parsley, and fresh herbs.
Step 4: Pour 1 cup of chicken broth over the bread mixture and toss gently. Add more broth, a little at a time, until the bread is moistened but not soggy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Dot with additional butter if desired, and cover with foil.
Step 6: Bake for 35 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until golden and crispy on top.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Stuffing

Keep these in mind:

Use a mix of bread types for a more complex flavor.
Don’t skip on letting the sautéed mixture cool before adding it to the bread; this helps maintain the texture.
Adjust the broth based on your desired moisture level.
Experiment with different herbs to create your own herb mixture for poultry.
For a unique twist, consider adding nuts or dried fruits to your stuffing.

Best Ways to Serve Stuffing

This stuffing pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It’s the perfect side for roasted turkey, but also complements grilled chicken or even a hearty vegetarian casserole. Try serving it alongside some steamed vegetables or a rich gravy for a complete meal. You can also use stuffing as a dressing for pork chops or as a filling in stuffed peppers for a delightful twist.

How to Store and Reheat Stuffing

To store leftover stuffing properly, allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent it from drying out. Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stuffing

What’s the secret to perfect Stuffing?

The secret to perfect stuffing lies in using quality bread and balancing moisture. Ensure your bread cubes are dry enough to absorb the broth without becoming soggy. Using a savory stuffing blend with fresh herbs enhances the aroma and taste.

Can I make Stuffing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing mixture a day before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. This makes it an ideal side dish for busy holiday meals.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Stuffing?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t over-moisten the bread mixture. Start with less broth and gradually add more. Also, be cautious not to overbake it; you want a crispy top but moist inside.

Variations of Stuffing You Can Try

There are numerous ways to customize your stuffing recipe. Consider adding sausage for a heartier version or using cornbread for a southern twist. For a vegetarian stuffing, use vegetable broth and add seasonal vegetables or nuts. Explore stuffing alternatives for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free bread or quinoa.

For more delicious recipes, check out Sweet Potato Biscuits for Thanksgiving or Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. If you’re interested in more stuffing ideas, visit Rice Chestnut Dressing for Thanksgiving.