Ultimate Homemade Bread Stuffing Recipe for Cozy Holidays

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The air is thick with the scent of savory herbs and freshly baked bread, inviting you to partake in the ultimate comfort food experience. Imagine diving into a warm bowl of homemade bread stuffing, each bite bursting with flavor. It’s that perfect blend of crispy edges and fluffy centers that makes your taste buds dance. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a hug in a bowl, especially during those cozy holiday gatherings when laughter fills the room and the aroma wafts through the air.

Jump to:

Now, let me take you on a little journey down memory lane. Picture this: it’s Thanksgiving, and I’m running around the kitchen like a headless turkey (get it?). My family gathers as we prepare for our feast, and there it is—my grandmother’s ultimate homemade bread stuffing recipe, bubbling away in the oven. It’s more than a side dish; it’s tradition served on a platter. So grab your apron and let’s create this delightful masterpiece that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The ultimate homemade bread stuffing brings together ease of preparation with tantalizing flavors.
  • It’s visually stunning with its golden crust and vibrant herbs.
  • Perfectly versatile, it pairs well with any protein or can be enjoyed solo as a delicious vegetarian option.
  • You’ll love how quick it comes together while still feeling gourmet!

Ingredients for Ultimate Homemade Bread Stuffing Recipe for Cozy Holidays

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Stale Bread: Use day-old or slightly dried-out bread for the best texture. French or sourdough works wonders!
  • Unsalted Butter: This will add richness and moisture to your stuffing. Don’t substitute—it’s essential!
  • Onion: Dice one medium onion for that perfect aromatic base that enhances all flavors.
  • Celery: Chopped celery adds crunch and freshness to balance the richness of butter.
  • Fresh Herbs: A mix of thyme, sage, and parsley brings an incredible depth of flavor; definitely use fresh if you can.
  • Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control flavor levels while keeping things moist.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Ultimate Homemade Bread Stuffing Recipe for Cozy Holidays

How to Make Ultimate Homemade Bread Stuffing Recipe for Cozy Holidays

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Get that oven warmed up to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your stuffing bakes evenly to achieve that perfect golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare Your Bread

Cut your stale bread into cubes—aim for about one-inch pieces. Spread them on a baking sheet and toast them lightly in the oven for about 10 minutes until they’re just dry but not brown.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter. Add diced onion and chopped celery, cooking until they’re soft and fragrant—around five minutes should do it.

Step 4: Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your toasted bread cubes with sautéed veggies and fresh herbs. Pour in chicken broth gradually while mixing until everything is moistened but not soggy.

Step 5: Bake the Stuffing

Transfer your mixture into a greased baking dish. Cover it with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil afterward to let it brown for an additional 15 minutes or so.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once golden brown and glorious, remove from the oven! Fluff it up with a fork before serving alongside your favorite holiday dishes.

Now you’re ready to dish out this ultimate homemade bread stuffing recipe! Transfer it to serving plates or leave it in the baking dish—the choice is yours! Pair it with turkey or enjoy it on its own; either way, it’s bound to become a cherished staple at your holiday table!

You Must Know

  • This ultimate homemade bread stuffing recipe for cozy holidays is a game changer.
  • It transforms your ordinary holiday meal into a flavorful feast.
  • Packed with seasonal spices and fresh herbs, it’s the perfect sidekick to turkey or ham.
  • Plus, it’s easy to whip up ahead of time!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, sauté onions and celery first until tender. Then, toast your bread cubes in the oven while preparing the broth mixture. Combine everything in a large bowl and bake until golden brown for that perfect crunch.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this stuffing! Swap out traditional bread for cornbread or add in dried cranberries for sweetness. Experiment with different herbs like sage or thyme to match your taste preferences or holiday theme.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, sprinkle with a little broth to keep it moist, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For a crunchy topping, broil your stuffing for the last few minutes of baking—just keep an eye on it!
  • If using stale bread, give it a day or two to dry out completely for better texture.
  • Don’t skimp on the broth; it keeps everything moist and flavorful!

There was that one Thanksgiving when my aunt tasted this ultimate homemade bread stuffing recipe for cozy holidays and declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” Who knew bread could have such a reputation? We still laugh about how everyone fought over the last scoop!

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for the Ultimate Homemade Bread Stuffing Recipe for Cozy Holidays?

To create this delicious stuffing, you’ll need a variety of fresh ingredients. Start with cubed bread, preferably a mix of white and whole grain. You’ll also need onions, celery, garlic, and fresh herbs like sage and thyme. Don’t forget to include vegetable or chicken broth for moisture and seasoning. Optional additions such as sausage, cranberries, or nuts can elevate the flavor. This combination will ensure a delightful stuffing that complements your holiday feast perfectly.

How can I customize the Ultimate Homemade Bread Stuffing Recipe for Cozy Holidays?

Customizing your stuffing is easy! You can swap out the bread type or add ingredients that suit your taste. For a sweeter touch, consider adding dried fruits like apricots or cranberries. If you prefer a heartier dish, incorporate cooked sausage or mushrooms. Adjust the herbs based on what you have at home; rosemary and parsley work well too. The key is to maintain the moisture balance while ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Can the Ultimate Homemade Bread Stuffing Recipe be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing your stuffing in advance can save you time during busy holiday cooking. Assemble all ingredients and place them in a baking dish, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before cooking. This method allows flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even more delicious outcome when baked.

What are some serving suggestions for the Ultimate Homemade Bread Stuffing Recipe for Cozy Holidays?

This savory stuffing pairs wonderfully with various holiday dishes! Serve it alongside roasted turkey or chicken for a classic meal. It also complements glazed ham beautifully. Consider offering a rich gravy on the side to drizzle over each serving for added flavor. For a lighter option, serve it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the stuffing.

Conclusion for Ultimate Homemade Bread Stuffing Recipe for Cozy Holidays

The Ultimate Homemade Bread Stuffing Recipe for Cozy Holidays brings warmth and flavor to your festive meals. With its blend of fresh ingredients and customizable options, this dish is sure to impress your guests. Whether prepared in advance or served right out of the oven, this comforting stuffing enhances any holiday spread. Embrace these tips and enjoy making this delightful recipe part of your seasonal traditions!

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Ultimate Homemade Bread Stuffing Recipe for Cozy Holidays


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  • Author: platesdaily
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: About 6 servings 1x

Description

Warm your heart and home with this savory homemade bread stuffing, a perfect companion for holiday feasts. Flavorful, comforting, and easy to prepare!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups stale bread (cubed, French or sourdough)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
  • 1 medium onion (diced)
  • 1 cup celery (chopped)
  • 2 tsp thyme (chopped)
  • 2 tsp sage (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup parsley (chopped)
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spread cubed stale bread on a baking sheet and lightly toast in the oven for about 10 minutes until just dry.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Add diced onion and chopped celery; sauté for about five minutes until soft.
  4. In a large bowl, combine toasted bread cubes with sautéed vegetables and fresh herbs. Gradually pour in chicken broth while mixing until moistened but not soggy.
  5. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Fluff with a fork before serving alongside your favorite holiday dishes.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
  • Calories: 240
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

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