Recipe Ideas

Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Every Thanksgiving, the aroma that filled our house wasn’t just turkey; it was the rich, savory scent of Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe. It’s a taste of pure nostalgia, a comforting hug in every bite. It’s way better than that boxed stuff – seriously, once you try this, you’ll never go back! Is it like comparing a vinyl record to a tinny phone speaker; one is a symphony of flavor, the other… well, you get it. Is this recipe easy enough to make?

Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe final dish beautifully presented and ready to serve

What is Thanksgiving stuffing recipe?

What is the Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe? Think of it as the ultimate savory bread pudding, but with a Thanksgiving twist. Some people call it “dressing,” especially if it’s baked separately from the bird, but in our family, it’s always been “stuffing,” whether it’s nestled inside the turkey or baked in a casserole dish. What are some of the best Thanksgiving side dishes? It’s that one dish that everyone looks forward to, and this version, passed down through generations, is something truly special.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What are some great Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipes?Flavor Explosion:What’s not to like about stuffing? The combination of fresh herbs, sautéed vegetables, and perfectly seasoned broth creates a symphony of taste that perfectly complements the turkey. A little bit of Italian sausage – it adds a depth of flavor you wouldn’t believe!Surprisingly simple:Is this stuffing easy to make? I actually find it a calming process amidst the Thanksgiving chaos.Budget-Friendly Feast:What are some of the best Thanksgiving recipes that won’t break the bank? Can you use day-old bread to save even more money – it actually works better that way!Super Versatile:What is a good side dish for Thanksgiving? It’s even delicious cold, straight from the fridge… don’t judge me! It’s way better than those boxed stuffing mixes. What are some of the best stuffing recipes I’ve tried? What I love most about this is that it makes enough for everyone – even with my large family, there are usually leftovers (which are amazing the next day!).

How do I make turkey stuffing?

Quick Overview

How do I make this Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe? After that, you just bake it until it’s golden brown and delicious. The real magic lies in the layering of flavors, and that’s what makes this recipe special. What are some of the best Thanksgiving recipes?

Ingredients

For the Stuffing:
• 1 loaf (about 1 pound) of day-old French or Italian bread, cut into 1-inch cubes. (I prefer a slightly crusty bread for better texture).
• 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings.
• 1 large onion, chopped.
• 2 celery stalks, chopped.
• 1 cup chopped carrots.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced.
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage. (Fresh is best, but you can use 2 teaspoons dried.)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme. (Same as with sage, fresh is preferable).
• 1 teaspoon salt.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
• 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium is best so you can control the salt).
• 1/2 cup melted butter. (Adds richness and flavor!)
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten. (Helps bind everything together.)

Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe ingredients organized and measured on kitchen counter

What is the step-by-

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This is super important to prevent the stuffing from sticking! I always make sure to get the corners really well.

Step 2: Sauté Sausage & Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Add the onion, celery, and carrots to the skillet and cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Add Broth & Butter

How do you mix the bread cubes with the chicken broth? What is the best way to ensure everything is properly mixed?

Step 5: Add Eggs

Stir in the lightly beaten eggs. They help bind the stuffing together and give it a nice texture. Again, make sure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 6: Bake

If the stuffing mixture is too thick, pour it into a baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through. I always check the center with a fork to make sure it’s heated through.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

Let stuffing cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even more. Serve warm and enjoy!

What should I serve it with?

This Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is a natural partner to all your Thanksgiving favorites, but it also shines on its own!

What is the best Thanksgiving dinner?What are the best side dishes to serve with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and your favorite vegetable side dishes?With Roasted Chicken or Pork: What is the best way to serve it?What is the best stuffing for a weeknight meal?As a Side Dish:Serve it as a side dish with grilled meats or fish. It’s a great way to add flavor and texture to your meal.For a Holiday Brunch:I’ve been known to whip up a batch of this stuffing for a holiday brunch! It’s a unique and savory addition to the menu that everyone will love. Leftovers are absolutely amazing too. My family has even put this in omlettes after a big Thanksgiving feast!

What are some tips for perfecting your Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

What are some of the tricks I’ve learned over the years to make this Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe absolutely perfect.What is the key to a good bread selection? Use a good quality French or Italian bread that’s a day or two old. This will prevent the stuffing from becoming too mushy. If your bread is too fresh, you can dry it out in a low oven (about 200°F) for about an hour.

Don’t overcrowd the pan!If you’re stuffing a turkey, don’t pack it in too tightly. This will prevent it from cooking evenly. You want it to be loosely packed so the heat can circulate properly.Why does the broth temperature matter?Use warm chicken broth. This will help the bread absorb the liquid more evenly and prevent the stuffing from becoming dry. I usually heat the broth in the microwave before adding it to the bread mixture.Taste as You Go: Before baking, taste the stuffing mixture and adjust the seasonings as needed. Everyone’s taste buds are different, so don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preferences. I usually add a little extra sage – it’s my favorite!

Crispy Top Tip: For a crispy top, bake the stuffing uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking time. This will help it brown beautifully and give it a nice texture. I sometimes even broil it for a minute or two, but watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn!

What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?

How do I store leftovers for Thanksgiving?Refrigerator Storage: What is theHow do you store stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days?How do I use a freezerFor longer storage, you can freeze stuffing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container. Is it safe to freeze it overnight before reheating?Reheating:To reheat the stuffing, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffing in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Is it possible to reheat chicken broth in the microwave?

What are the most frequently asked questions on Quora

Can I make this gluten free?
Can you substitute regular bread for gluten free bread? If gluten-free bread absorbs more liquid, adjust the amount of broth. Keep an eye on texture and add more broth if it seems dry.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
If you like fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Use 1 teaspoon of dried sage and 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme for every tablespoon of fresh herbs. Why are dried herbs more potent than fresh herbs?
Can I add other vegetables?
Can you add other vegetables like mushrooms, cranberries, or apples? What are some of the best ways to add flavor to stuffing?
Can I make this vegetarian?
Can you make this stuffing vegetarian by omitting the sausage? For an added layer of flavor, consider adding toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts.
How far in advance can I make this?
Can you make the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator? If the stuffing is cold, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe slice on plate showing perfect texture and swirl pattern

Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a tradition. It’s a taste of home, a reminder of family, and a celebration of all things Thanksgiving. Is it easy to make, bursting with flavor, and sure to be a hit with everyone at your table? What are your favorite Thanksgiving recipes? What do you think of my new post?

I’m Maria, a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, personal trainer, author, and podcaster. I love helping people improve their physical and mental health through easy-to-understand wellness advice and delicious recipes made with nourishing ingredients. Pull up a seat—you’re welcome at this table!

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