Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday, filled with family, laughter, and, of course, delicious food. The aroma of roasting turkey fills the house, but let’s be honest—the true star of the show is the best Thanksgiving stuffing! Every year, my family gathers to share stories and recipes, and this stuffing has become a cherished tradition. It’s savory, comforting, and the perfect complement to our holiday meal. I can still remember my grandmother teaching me how to make it, her hands deftly mixing the ingredients while we laughed and reminisced. Trust me, this stuffing will soon become a beloved part of your Thanksgiving as well, making your holiday gathering even more special!

Ingredients for the Best Thanksgiving Stuffing

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for creating the best Thanksgiving stuffing that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 loaf of bread, cubed: I recommend using day-old bread for the best texture. You can use white, whole wheat, or even a mix of different breads for added flavor.
• 1 cup of celery, chopped: Fresh celery adds that lovely crunch and a hint of earthiness. Make sure to chop it evenly so it cooks nicely.
• 1 cup of onion, chopped: I love using yellow onion for its sweetness, but feel free to experiment with shallots or even red onion if you’re feeling adventurous!
• 1/2 cup of butter: This is where the magic happens! Butter adds richness and helps to sauté the vegetables to perfection.
• 2 cups of chicken broth: You can use homemade or store-bought, but make sure it’s low-sodium so you can control the saltiness of your stuffing.
• 1 tablespoon of dried sage: Sage is a classic herb for stuffing; it brings that warm, aromatic flavor we all associate with Thanksgiving.
• 1 tablespoon of dried thyme: Another herb that complements the sage beautifully, adding depth to your stuffing.
• 1 teaspoon of salt: Just the right amount to enhance all the flavors without overpowering them.
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper: This adds a nice kick, but feel free to adjust it according to your taste.
• 2 eggs, beaten: These help bind everything together, giving your stuffing that perfect texture.

How to Prepare the Best Thanksgiving Stuffing

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab a greased baking dish—this is where all that stuffing goodness is going to come together. Trust me, a well-prepared dish makes a world of difference!

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Now, in a skillet over medium heat, melt that delicious butter until it’s nice and bubbly. Add in your chopped celery and onion, stirring them around for about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be softened and fragrant, filling your kitchen with that comforting aroma. Don’t rush this step; it’s all about building flavor!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, those sautéed veggies, and your dried herbs. Pour in the chicken broth and give it a good mix—don’t be shy! Lastly, add the beaten eggs and stir until everything is well coated. You’re looking for a lovely, moist mixture that holds together but isn’t too soggy. If it feels too dry, just add a splash more broth!

Step 4: Bake the Stuffing

Transfer your stuffing mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s golden brown on top and the edges are slightly crispy. Oh, the smell will be heavenly! Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and get ready for everyone to rave about your best Thanksgiving stuffing!

Tips for Success

To ensure your best Thanksgiving stuffing turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips! First, using day-old bread really makes a difference in texture; it absorbs the broth without getting mushy. If you want to elevate the flavor, consider adding cooked sausage or diced apples for a hint of sweetness. You can even mix in some chopped nuts for a delightful crunch! Don’t hesitate to experiment with fresh herbs if you have them on hand; they can add a fresh burst of flavor. Also, feel free to prepare the stuffing a day ahead; just cover it tightly and refrigerate. Then, pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. Trust me, your guests will be asking for your secret!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Please note that the nutritional information for the best Thanksgiving stuffing can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I’ve provided estimates to guide you, it’s important to keep in mind that actual values may differ. If you’re tracking your intake or have dietary restrictions, I recommend checking the labels of your ingredients. Enjoy this delicious stuffing while keeping your health goals in mind!

FAQ About the Best Thanksgiving Stuffing

Got questions about making the best Thanksgiving stuffing? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear:

Can I use different types of bread?
Absolutely! While I love using day-old white or whole wheat bread, you can mix it up with sourdough, rye, or even cornbread for a unique twist. Just make sure it’s a bit stale for better texture.

Can I make this stuffing vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It’ll still be delicious and packed with flavor!

How can I make the stuffing ahead of time?
Great question! You can prepare the stuffing the day before and store it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly, and when you’re ready to bake, pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What should I do if my stuffing is too dry?
If it feels dry, don’t worry! Just drizzle in a bit more broth and give it a gentle stir. It should come together beautifully.

Can I add other ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in cooked sausage, dried fruit like cranberries, or even nuts for added flavor and texture. The possibilities are endless!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious stuffing without breaking a sweat!
• Exceptional Flavor: The combination of savory herbs and sautéed vegetables creates a mouthwatering aroma and taste that will have everyone asking for your recipe.
• Perfectly Textured: Using day-old bread ensures the stuffing is moist yet has a delightful crunch on top, making each bite satisfying.
• Versatile Add-Ins: You can easily customize this stuffing with your favorite ingredients, whether it’s sausage, nuts, or dried fruits for an extra twist.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it a day in advance, making your Thanksgiving day smoother and stress-free.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This stuffing complements turkey and all your holiday sides perfectly, ensuring it’s a hit at your Thanksgiving table!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover best Thanksgiving stuffing is super easy! Just let it cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days—perfect for those late-night snack cravings or post-holiday meals! If you want to save it for a longer time, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label it so you don’t forget about that deliciousness hiding in your freezer!

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, I recommend covering it with foil and warming it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also sprinkle a little chicken broth on top before reheating to keep it moist. Trust me, it’ll taste just as good as the first time around!

Best Thanksgiving Stuffing: 7 Secrets to Ultimate Flavor

---

• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A delicious and savory Thanksgiving stuffing recipe that enhances your holiday meal.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 loaf of bread, cubed
• 1 cup of celery, chopped
• 1 cup of onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup of butter
• 2 cups of chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon of dried sage
• 1 tablespoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Add celery and onion, cooking until softened.
4. In a large bowl, combine cubed bread, cooked vegetables, and herbs.
5. Pour in chicken broth and mix well.
6. Add beaten eggs and stir to combine.
7. Transfer stuffing to a greased baking dish.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

• Use day-old bread for better texture.
• Feel free to add cooked sausage for extra flavor.
• This stuffing can be made ahead and reheated.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: best thanksgiving stuffing