Ultimate Thanksgiving Dressing/Stuffing Recipe for Comfort

Thanksgiving wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without the warmth and comfort of a delicious stuffing, or as some like to call it, dressing. Imagine digging into a bowl of fluffy, buttery bread combined with savory herbs and spices, all topped off with a hint of nostalgia. delicious pecan pie crescent rolls The aroma wafts through the house, wrapping around you like a cozy blanket as you gather with family and friends, ready to celebrate.

Now, picture this: you’re at a holiday dinner surrounded by loved ones. With every bite of this Thanksgiving dressing, you’re not just tasting food; you’re savoring memories that whisper stories of laughter, love, and perhaps even a little kitchen chaos. blue cheese stuffed pears Whether it’s the first time you’re making it or the hundredth, this dish brings joy to the table every single year.

My cousin once declared my stuffing “the reason she comes home for Thanksgiving,” which is both flattering and terrifying when you realize the pressure it puts on your cooking skills!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Stale Bread Cubes: Use day-old bread for the best texture; fresh bread becomes too mushy.
• Butter: A generous amount enriches the flavors; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient! For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe.
• Onions: Finely diced onions add sweetness; sauté them until they are translucent for maximum flavor.
• Celery: Chopped celery provides crunch and freshness; opt for crisp stalks for the best results.
• Herbs (sage, thyme, parsley): Fresh herbs elevate this dish; dried can work in a pinch but fresh is always better.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth for more control over saltiness; homemade is preferable if available.
• Eggs: Eggs bind the mixture together; whisk them well before adding to ensure even distribution.
• Salt and Pepper: Season generously but taste as you go; seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors.

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

Let’s Make it Together

• Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, chop your onions and celery finely. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat until bubbly. fun pretzel candy trees Add onions and celery, sautéing until soft and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes should do it.
• In a large bowl, combine your stale bread cubes with sautéed vegetables. Toss in chopped fresh herbs—think sage and thyme—and season well with salt and pepper. Drizzle melted butter over the mixture while stirring gently to coat each piece.
• Pour in your chicken or vegetable broth gradually while mixing until everything is moistened but not soggy. You want each piece of bread to be infused with flavor but still hold its shape—like each cube has its own story to tell!
• In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs until frothy. Fold them into your bread mixture carefully but quickly—it’s like giving each cube a cozy hug before baking.
• Transfer your mixture into a greased baking dish. Cover it tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown on top—like freshly caught autumn leaves dancing in the sun.
• Once baked to perfection, let it cool slightly before serving. This Thanksgiving dressing pairs beautifully with turkey or can stand alone as a hearty vegetarian option that even meat-lovers will enjoy.

This stuffing recipe feels like home—warm, inviting, full of life—and promises not just sustenance but connection among those gathered around your table this holiday season!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and celery to enhance flavors before combining with bread. This sequence ensures your stuffing is aromatic and flavorful.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out traditional ingredients; add apples for sweetness or sausage for heartiness. Personalizing helps create a dish that reflects your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Thanksgiving dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warm.

I remember the first time I made Thanksgiving dressing from scratch; my family was skeptical at first but ended up asking for the recipe!

FAQ

What’s the difference between dressing and stuffing?

Dressing is cooked outside the bird, while stuffing is inserted inside it during cooking.

Can I make Thanksgiving dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it a day prior and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

What bread works best for Thanksgiving dressing?

Sturdy breads like sourdough or French bread hold up well while absorbing flavors. For more inspiration, check out this french toast casserole recipe.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Thanksgiving Dressing

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• Author: Mia Hanry
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

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Description

Thanksgiving dressing, also known as stuffing, is the heart of any holiday feast, offering a delightful combination of fluffy bread, savory herbs, and rich broth. This easy-to-make recipe captures the essence of family gatherings, filling your home with comforting aromas and creating memories with every bite. Perfectly golden brown and versatile enough to accompany turkey or shine as a vegetarian dish, this Thanksgiving dressing is sure to impress your guests and evoke nostalgia around the dinner table.

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Ingredients

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• 10 cups stale bread cubes
• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
• 1 cup finely diced onions
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh thyme, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 large eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Finely chop onions and celery.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Add onions and celery; sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft.
3. In a large bowl, combine stale bread cubes with sautéed vegetables, herbs, salt, and pepper. Drizzle melted butter over the mixture and stir gently.
4. Gradually pour in broth while mixing until moistened but not soggy.
5. Whisk eggs in a separate bowl and fold into the bread mixture carefully.
6. Transfer to a greased baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 70mg