Ah, Classic Bread Stuffing! This dish holds a special place in my heart, especially during the holidays. I remember the delightful aroma wafting through my home as my mom prepared it, a staple on our Thanksgiving table. There’s just something magical about the combination of bread, herbs, and buttery goodness that makes every bite feel like a warm hug. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a tradition that brings family and friends together, enhancing the joy of sharing a meal. Trust me, once you try this stuffing, you’ll understand why it’s a must-have at any holiday gathering. It’s simple, comforting, and oh-so-delicious, guaranteed to make your festive feasts unforgettable!

Ingredients for Classic Bread Stuffing

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the perfect Classic Bread Stuffing. Here’s what you’ll need:

8 cups cubed bread: Use day-old bread for the best texture. French or sourdough works wonderfully, but feel free to mix it up!
1 cup chopped onion: This adds a lovely depth of flavor. I love using sweet onions, but any variety will do.
1 cup chopped celery: Celery brings that classic crunch and freshness. Make sure to chop it finely for even cooking!
1/2 cup unsalted butter: This is where the magic happens! It adds richness and helps everything come together beautifully.
2 cups chicken broth: This is essential for moistening the bread. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
1 tablespoon dried sage: Sage is the star herb here! It gives that warm, earthy flavor that’s so traditional.
1 tablespoon dried thyme: Another wonderful herb that complements the sage perfectly.
1 teaspoon salt: This helps to enhance all the flavors. Adjust according to your taste!
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Just a pinch for a bit of warmth and spice.

That’s it! These simple ingredients come together to create a stuffing that’s bursting with flavor and nostalgia. Let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Classic Bread Stuffing

Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this Classic Bread Stuffing to life! Don’t worry, it’s super straightforward, and I’m here to guide you through every step. Let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your stuffing bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden crust.
Melting the butter: In a large skillet, melt the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn—it should melt down beautifully!
Sautéing the veggies: Once the butter is melted, add in your chopped onion and celery. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re soft and fragrant. You want that wonderful aroma to fill your kitchen!
Combining the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread, sautéed onion and celery, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good mix so the herbs and veggies are evenly distributed.
Moistening the bread: Pour in the 2 cups of chicken broth over the bread mixture. Gently stir until the bread is nicely moistened. You want it to be moist but not soggy—trust me, the texture is everything!
Transfer to baking dish: Now, transfer that delicious mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and if you like a crispy top, don’t pack it too tightly!
Baking time: Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the stuffing is heated through. Just imagine that heavenly smell wafting through your home!

And there you have it! A delightful Classic Bread Stuffing that’s ready to be served alongside your holiday feast. Enjoy every bite, and watch how it becomes a favorite at your table!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk about the nutrition of this yummy Classic Bread Stuffing! Each serving is packed with flavors and comfort, and here’s a breakdown of the typical values you can expect per cup:

Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 500mg
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose. But no matter the numbers, this stuffing is sure to bring joy to your holiday table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This Classic Bread Stuffing comes together in no time, making it a hassle-free addition to your holiday cooking.
Flavorful: With the perfect blend of herbs and buttery bread, each bite is a cozy explosion of flavor that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Perfect for Holidays: It’s a traditional dish that pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or any festive centerpiece. Trust me, it completes the meal!
Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste—add some sausage, or switch up the herbs for a personal touch!
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance, making your holiday cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
Family Favorite: This stuffing has a way of bringing everyone together, creating warm memories around the table that you’ll cherish for years.

Tips for Success

Want to make sure your Classic Bread Stuffing turns out absolutely perfect? I’ve got some pro tips that’ll elevate your stuffing game to the next level!

Use Day-Old Bread: Trust me on this one! Day-old bread is drier and will soak up the broth better, giving you that ideal texture. If you only have fresh bread, let it sit out for a few hours or toast it lightly to dry it out.
Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: The herbs are what give this stuffing its delightful flavor. Feel free to adjust the sage and thyme to your liking, or add a pinch of rosemary for an earthy twist. Taste as you go!
Mix Gently: When combining the bread and broth, be gentle! You want everything moistened without turning it into mush. A light hand will help keep those lovely bread cubes intact.
Let It Rest: After baking, let your stuffing sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully and makes it easier to serve.
Customize to Your Taste: Want to add a little something extra? Toss in some cooked sausage, diced apples, or even nuts for a delightful crunch. The possibilities are endless!
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers (which I hope you do because it’s so good!), store it in an airtight container in the fridge. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave, but I recommend a quick oven warm-up to keep that crispy top.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make a Classic Bread Stuffing that’ll impress everyone at your holiday table. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!

Variations of Classic Bread Stuffing

If you’re like me, you love to play around with recipes to make them your own! This Classic Bread Stuffing is no exception. Here are some fun and delicious variations that’ll add a personal touch to your dish:

Sausage Stuffing: For a heartier version, add about 1 pound of cooked sausage, crumbled into the mixture. It adds a wonderful savory depth that’s hard to resist!
Herb Medley: Instead of just sage and thyme, mix in other herbs like rosemary or parsley for a fragrant twist. Fresh herbs work great too—just chop them finely!
Fruit & Nut Delight: Toss in some diced apples or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness, along with some chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch. It’s a delightful contrast to the savory bread!
Vegetarian Twist: Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients. It’s still deliciously satisfying!
Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. It’ll give your stuffing a fun kick that your guests won’t see coming!
Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some shredded cheese like Parmesan or cheddar before baking. It’ll melt into the stuffing and create a creamy, cheesy layer that’s simply divine.

These variations will not only make your Classic Bread Stuffing unique but also allow you to cater to different tastes and preferences. Experimenting is half the fun, so don’t be afraid to get creative! Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made a delicious batch of Classic Bread Stuffing, and now you’re wondering how to store those leftovers? Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered! Proper storage will help keep that amazing flavor intact for your next meal.

First off, let the stuffing cool to room temperature before you store it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make it a bit soggy. Once it’s cooled, transfer your stuffing to an airtight container. I love using glass containers because they don’t hold onto odors and keep everything fresh.

You can store your Classic Bread Stuffing in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’re planning on keeping it longer, I highly recommend freezing it. To do this, portion the stuffing into smaller containers or freezer bags, making it easy to thaw just the right amount later. It can be frozen for up to 2 months!

When you’re ready to enjoy your stuffing again, reheating is a breeze! For the best results, I recommend using the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the stuffing in a greased baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep it from drying out and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If you want a crispy top (who doesn’t?), remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking.

If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat it in the microwave. Just place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts, stirring in between until it’s hot. Just be careful not to overdo it; you want to keep that lovely texture!

With these tips, your Classic Bread Stuffing will taste just as good the next day (or even the next month!). Enjoy those delicious leftovers, and happy feasting!

FAQ Section

Can I make Classic Bread Stuffing ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up until the baking step, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

What type of bread is best for stuffing?
I recommend using day-old bread for the best texture. French bread, sourdough, or even whole grain bread works wonderfully. Avoid using super soft sandwich bread, as it can turn mushy. A nice crusty bread will give you that delightful bite!

Can I freeze Classic Bread Stuffing?
Yes, you can freeze your stuffing! Just make sure to let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven for the best results.

How do I know when my stuffing is done baking?
You’ll know your stuffing is ready when the top is golden brown and it’s heated through. If you want to be extra sure, you can check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) to be safely enjoyed!

What are some good add-ins for Classic Bread Stuffing?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can add cooked sausage for a hearty twist, or mix in some diced apples and nuts for a sweet crunch. Fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary can also elevate the flavor. Get creative and make it your own!

Classic Bread Stuffing: 7 Tips for Unforgettable Flavor

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A traditional dish made from bread and seasonings, perfect for holiday meals.

Ingredients

Scale

8 cups cubed bread
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon dried sage
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the onion and celery, and sauté until soft.
In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Pour in the chicken broth and mix until the bread is moistened.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
Bake for 30-40 minutes until top is golden brown.

Notes

Use day-old bread for better texture.
Add cooked sausage for extra flavor.
Adjust herbs to your taste.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Classic Bread Stuffing, Stuffing Recipe, Holiday Stuffing

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