If you’ve ever wanted a comforting, soul-satisfying side dish that truly embodies the heart of holiday feasting, look no further than this Classic Bread Stuffing Recipe. It’s a harmonious blend of toasted bread cubes, fragrant herbs, tender sautéed vegetables, and the perfect balance of moisture that creates a fluffy yet crispy texture. Whether you’re serving it alongside roasted turkey or simply craving a cozy bowl of nostalgia, this recipe promises to deliver warmth and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are both simple and essential, each bringing unique elements that build layers of flavor, texture, and color in the Classic Bread Stuffing Recipe. Using fresh herbs and the right balance of broth and eggs will make all the difference in achieving that perfect stuffing texture.
- 10 cups of day-old bread cubes (white or country bread): Day-old bread soaks up the broth without turning mushy, giving the stuffing body and structure.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the veggies while infusing the dish with silkiness.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Provides sweetness and depth once softened in the butter.
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped: Brings a subtle crunch and fresh, aromatic flavor to the mix.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Introduces a mild pungency that elevates the overall taste without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme): Offers woodsy, earthy notes essential for classic stuffing.
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage): Delivers that unmistakable herbaceous warmth associated with comfort food.
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary): Adds a subtle piney aroma that strengthens the herbal profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances the herbs and vegetables.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle kick and rounds out the seasoning.
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (plus more if needed): Moistens the bread cubes just right to create fluffy, bite-sized pockets of flavor.
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten: Bind everything together, helping the stuffing hold its shape once baked.
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped parsley, cooked sausage, or dried cranberries: These add a pop of color, texture, and an extra burst of flavor if you want to dress up the classic.
How to Make Classic Bread Stuffing Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the stuffing doesn’t stick and bakes evenly with a golden crust.
Step 2: Toast the Bread Cubes
Spread the bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet and toast them for about 10 to 15 minutes. This step is crucial: it dries out the bread so it soaks up the broth perfectly without turning soggy after baking, resulting in that irresistible texture everyone loves.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables and Herbs
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and celery, sautéing until they become soft and translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic along with the fresh thyme, sage, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook everything for another minute to release those wonderful aromas into the butter.
Step 4: Combine Bread with Vegetables
Transfer the toasted bread cubes into a large mixing bowl. Add the sautéed vegetables and herbs, then toss together thoroughly. If you’re using optional ingredients like parsley, sausage, or dried cranberries, now is the time to mix them in for extra personality and flavor.
Step 5: Add Broth and Eggs
Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, gently tossing to moisten the bread cubes evenly but carefully so the mixture doesn’t become overly wet. Then, fold in the beaten eggs to bind everything. If it looks dry, add a little more broth, a quarter cup at a time, until the perfect texture is achieved – moist, but not soggy.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Crisp
Pour the stuffing mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth the top evenly. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the stuffing to set. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, giving the top a beautiful golden brown and a crispy finish that contrasts perfectly with the tender interior.
Step 7: Let It Cool and Serve
Once baked, give the stuffing a few minutes to cool slightly before serving. This helps it settle and makes scooping portions easier. Enjoy the classic comfort and all the nuanced flavors you’ve stirred together with this Classic Bread Stuffing Recipe.
How to Serve Classic Bread Stuffing Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh and vibrant touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or a few whole sage leaves on top just before serving. This adds a pop of color and a subtle herbal brightness that complements the deep, savory stuffing flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This stuffing shines alongside traditional roasts like turkey or chicken, but it’s equally wonderful paired with roasted root vegetables or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. Cranberry sauce on the side can add a tart contrast that elevates every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Rather than a standard casserole dish, consider baking the stuffing inside hollowed-out vegetables like a butternut squash or bell peppers for an eye-catching presentation. You can also stuff it inside the cavity of a whole chicken or turkey before roasting for an all-in-one meal that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, any leftover stuffing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled promptly is key to preserving freshness and preventing spoilage.
Freezing
If you want to save stuffing for longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil to retain moisture, for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. For a crispier top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating. You can also microwave smaller portions, but the oven method best preserves the classic bread stuffing’s texture.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free bread for this Classic Bread Stuffing Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use sturdy gluten-free bread that is a day old or lightly toasted, so it holds up well when mixed with broth without disintegrating.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Can I use dried instead?
Yes, dried herbs work perfectly. Use one-third of the amount of fresh herbs called for since dried herbs are more concentrated. For example, substitute 1 teaspoon dried thyme if the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon fresh thyme.
Is it possible to make this stuffing vegetarian?
Definitely. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and skip any meat-based add-ins. The combination of herbs, vegetables, and butter will still provide rich, comforting flavors.
How do I ensure the stuffing is moist but not soggy?
Adding broth gradually and gently tossing the mixture helps control moisture. The bread cubes should be well coated but not swimming in liquid. Toasting the bread ahead of time also prevents sogginess by offering structure.
Can I make this Classic Bread Stuffing Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly and bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to cooking time if baking cold from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of a Classic Bread Stuffing Recipe baking in the oven to make a house feel like home. With its perfect balance of buttery herbs, sautéed veggies, and tender bread cubes, this dish is destined to become a cherished staple at your table. I can’t wait for you to try it and create new memories with loved ones around every delicious spoonful.
Print
Classic Bread Stuffing Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic Bread Stuffing is a flavorful and comforting side dish perfect for holiday meals and family gatherings. Made with toasted bread cubes, sautéed aromatic vegetables, fresh herbs, and a moistening mixture of broth and eggs, it bakes to a golden brown, crispy top and tender interior. Optional additions like parsley, cooked sausage, or dried cranberries add extra layers of taste and texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 10 cups of day-old bread cubes (white or country bread)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (plus more if needed)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley
- 1/2 cup cooked sausage
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for baking the stuffing later.
- Toast the Bread: Spread the bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet and toast them in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes until they become slightly crispy but are not browned. Once toasted, set them aside to cool.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and celery and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they soften. Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, sage, rosemary, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute to release the herbs’ aromas.
- Mix the Stuffing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables. If you choose to add parsley, cooked sausage, or dried cranberries, mix them in at this stage for added flavor.
- Add Broth and Eggs: Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, gently tossing the mixture to moisten the bread evenly without making it soggy. Stir in the lightly beaten eggs until fully combined. If the mixture feels dry, add more broth in 1/4 cup increments until the desired moisture is achieved.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the stuffing mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top for uniform baking.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the oven for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top turns golden brown and develops a crispy texture.
- Serve: Allow the stuffing to cool slightly before serving to let it set and ensure the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Day-old bread is essential as it absorbs moisture without becoming mushy.
- Use fresh herbs when possible for the best flavor; dried herbs may be substituted but use less.
- You can customize this stuffing with additions like nuts, mushrooms, or different meats to suit your taste.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit sausage.
- Covering the dish while baking helps retain moisture; removing the foil at the end crisps the top.
