Name: Easy Stuffing Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 2 small yellow onions (diced): Adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.; 4 ribs of celery (diced): For that fresh crunch and texture.; ⅔ cup butter: The richness from the butter helps bring all the flavors together.; 1 ½ teaspoons poultry seasoning or ½ teaspoon ground sage: These spices are essential for that comforting stuffing flavor.; Black pepper & salt to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance the overall flavor.; 12 cups dry bread cubes: You can use any kind of bread, but stale or dried-out bread works best for soaking up the flavors.; 2 to 4 cups chicken broth: This adds moisture without making the stuffing soggy.; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or 2 teaspoons dried parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness.; 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (sage, thyme, or rosemary), or 1 teaspoon dry herbs: For an aromatic finish that elevates the stuffing.

Looking for a delicious, no-fuss stuffing recipe that’s perfect for any holiday or family gathering? This Easy Stuffing Recipe delivers classic flavors with minimal effort, making it a go-to dish for everyone from seasoned cooks to beginners. Whether you’re planning a festive dinner or just craving a comforting side, this stuffing recipe is here to impress. The best part? It’s adaptable, packed with herbs, and full of savory goodness!

Why This Stuffing Recipe is a Must-Try

This stuffing recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s easy to prepare but delivers rich flavors that complement any main course. From the aromatic herbs to the tender bread cubes, everything comes together for a dish that’s not too dry or too soggy—just perfectly balanced. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences, making it a timeless addition to your dinner table.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious stuffing:

2 small yellow onions (diced): Adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.
4 ribs of celery (diced): For that fresh crunch and texture.
⅔ cup butter: The richness from the butter helps bring all the flavors together.
1 ½ teaspoons poultry seasoning or ½ teaspoon ground sage: These spices are essential for that comforting stuffing flavor.
Black pepper & salt to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance the overall flavor.
12 cups dry bread cubes: You can use any kind of bread, but stale or dried-out bread works best for soaking up the flavors.
2 to 4 cups chicken broth: This adds moisture without making the stuffing soggy.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or 2 teaspoons dried parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness.
1 tablespoon fresh herbs (sage, thyme, or rosemary), or 1 teaspoon dry herbs: For an aromatic finish that elevates the stuffing.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will give you the perfect baking temperature to achieve a golden, slightly crispy top layer without drying out the stuffing.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the diced onions, celery, and poultry seasoning (and rosemary if you’re using it). Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. Be sure to stir occasionally to avoid any burning.

3. Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your dry bread cubes, the cooked onion mixture, fresh parsley, and herbs. Mix gently to ensure all the bread cubes get evenly coated with the butter and vegetables.

4. Add the Chicken Broth

Pour 1 cup of the chicken broth over the bread mixture and toss gently. Continue adding the broth, a little at a time, until the bread cubes are moist but not soggy. Depending on the dryness of your bread, you may need between 2 to 4 cups of broth.

5. Season and Transfer to a Baking Dish

Season the stuffing with salt and pepper to taste. Then, transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Dot the top with a bit of extra butter if you want an extra-rich flavor and crispier top layer.

6. Bake the Stuffing

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the top to become golden and crispy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-soaking the bread: Be careful when adding the chicken broth. Too much liquid can result in a soggy stuffing.
Skipping the sautéing step: Don’t rush through cooking the onions and celery. Properly sautéing these vegetables enhances their flavors.
Using soft bread: Ensure your bread cubes are dry. Fresh bread can become mushy, so if you don’t have stale bread, toast it in the oven for 10-15 minutes beforehand.

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Stuffing: Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth.
Add protein: For a heartier stuffing, you can mix in cooked sausage or ground turkey.
Sweeten it up: Add dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet contrast to the savory herbs.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free bread cubes to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivity.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To make this stuffing truly shine at your dinner table, serve it in a rustic, ceramic dish that keeps the stuffing warm and looks great as a centerpiece. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and a dash of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance the aroma.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this stuffing recipe:

Large skillet
Large mixing bowl
Baking dish (9×13 inch recommended)
Cutting board and knife
Wooden spoon for mixing
Aluminum foil (for covering the stuffing during baking)

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftover stuffing, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the stuffing in an oven-safe dish and warm it at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also freeze the stuffing for up to 3 months. When ready to use, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed above.

FAQ Section

Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffing up to a day in advance. Simply assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

What’s the best bread to use for stuffing?
Any sturdy bread works well, like sourdough, French bread, or even whole wheat. Just make sure it’s dried out or toasted before use.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the regular bread cubes for gluten-free bread cubes, and you’ll have a gluten-free stuffing that’s just as delicious.

Conclusion

This Easy Stuffing Recipe is a simple yet flavorful side dish that brings everyone to the table. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving or just a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. So, why not give it a try at your next gathering? Don’t forget to share your experience, and if you loved this recipe, subscribe to our blog for more delightful dishes!