Description

Bread stuffing is a classic side dish that often takes center stage during holiday meals like Thanksgiving and Christmas. This dish combines cubes of bread with aromatic vegetables, savory herbs, and broth, creating a flavorful, comforting stuffing that’s crispy on top and moist on the inside. Whether you prefer it baked or cooked inside the turkey, bread stuffing is the perfect accompaniment to a roast, adding a rich texture and delicious flavor to any festive meal.

Ingredients

10 cups cubed day-old bread (preferably white or sourdough)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried sage
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 large eggs, beaten
Optional: 1 cup cooked sausage or bacon (crumbled), 1/2 cup chopped cranberries, 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

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Instructions

Prepare the Bread: If using fresh bread, cut it into cubes and dry it out by spreading it on a baking sheet. Leave it to air dry for a few hours, or bake in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until the bread is dry but not browned.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Season the Mixture: Stir in the dried thyme, sage, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until the herbs are fragrant.
Combine Bread and Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the dried bread cubes and the sautéed vegetable mixture. Toss until the bread is evenly coated with the butter and seasonings.
Add Broth and Eggs: Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the bread mixture, then gently stir to moisten the bread. Add the beaten eggs and chopped fresh parsley, and mix until the stuffing is evenly combined. If you’re adding optional ingredients like sausage, cranberries, or nuts, fold them in now.
Bake the Stuffing: Transfer the stuffing to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the top to get golden and crispy.
Serve: Let the stuffing cool slightly before serving. For extra flavor, drizzle with a little extra melted butter before serving.

Notes

Sausage Stuffing: Add 1 cup of cooked, crumbled sausage for a savory, meaty stuffing that’s even more satisfying.
Cranberry-Walnut Stuffing: Stir in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries and 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a sweet and crunchy twist.
Apple and Sage Stuffing: Add 1-2 cups of chopped apples for a fruity, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with sage.
Gluten-Free Stuffing: Use gluten-free bread in place of regular bread to make the stuffing gluten-free while maintaining the same great texture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: undefined
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 250
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 40mg