Homemade stuffing is a quintessential side dish that brings warmth and comfort to any holiday table. This classic recipe combines savory herbs, buttery sautéed vegetables, and rustic bread cubes to create a dish that is flavorful and satisfying. Perfectly seasoned and baked to a golden brown, this stuffing is a crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, gravy, and cranberry sauce. Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, this homemade stuffing will add a touch of tradition and deliciousness to your meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of day-old bread, cubed (about 10 cups)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Prepare the bread cubes: Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until slightly toasted. This step helps the bread absorb the flavors without becoming mushy. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Cook the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, and sauté until softened, about 8 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, and fresh parsley. Pour in the broth gradually, tossing the mixture until the bread is evenly moistened. Be careful not to over-saturate the bread. Stir in the beaten eggs until well combined.
- Bake the stuffing: Transfer the stuffing mixture to the prepared baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Serve: Let the stuffing cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it as a side dish to your favorite roasted meats and vegetables.
This stuffing can also be made a day in advance and reheated before serving, making it a convenient and delicious addition to your holiday menu.
