Jacy Nothing says comfort food quite like a warm, fragrant dish of stuffing. It’s the soulful side that transforms a simple meal into a feast. Yet, for many, the idea of making it from scratch feels daunting. Fear not! This guide is dedicated to demystifying the process with a classic, fail-proof stuffing recipe easy that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. It’s the perfect addition to your arsenal of quick easy recipes for any gathering, from Sunday dinner to the holiday table. Let’s make a stuffing that’s so good, it might just steal the show.
Table of Contents
Herbed Bread Stuffing
Ingredients
- 1 loaf (about 16 oz) day-old French or Italian bread, cubed
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 celery stalks, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 1 ½ teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth, plus more if needed
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the cubed bread on a large baking sheet and toast for 10-15 minutes, until dry and lightly golden. This prevents a soggy stuffing.
2. While the bread toasts, melt the butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic, sage, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet. Cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
4. Transfer the toasted bread cubes to a very large mixing bowl. Pour the hot vegetable and herb mixture over the bread and toss gently to combine.
5. In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the 1 cup of broth, beaten eggs, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour the liquid mixture over the bread and vegetables. Using your hands or a large spoon, gently toss everything together until the bread is evenly moistened. If the mixture seems too dry, add more broth, 2 tablespoons at a time.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover tightly with foil.
8. Bake covered for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the top is crisp and golden brown. The key to this stuffing recipe easy is patience here—allow it to bake fully for the perfect texture. Following these clear steps ensures this becomes one of your go-to quick easy recipes for years to come.
Tips & Variations
- Bread Swap: Use cornbread, sourdough, or whole wheat bread for a different flavor profile.
- Add-Ins: Stir in 1 cup of dried cranberries or chopped apples for sweetness, or 1 cup of cooked sausage or chopped nuts for extra heartiness.
- Make it Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and ensure any add-ins are plant-based.
Serving & Storage
Serve this stuffing hot from the oven alongside roasted turkey, chicken, or pork chops. It’s also fantastic with a side of gravy. To store, let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best texture, or use the microwave for a quick fix. You can also freeze baked stuffing for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Benefits
This stuffing provides a good source of carbohydrates for energy. The celery and onions offer dietary fiber and antioxidants like quercetin. Using whole-grain bread can further increase the fiber content, promoting digestive health.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Fresh, Soft Bread: This leads to a mushy, gummy texture. Always dry out or toast your bread cubes first.
- Over-mixing: Toss the ingredients gently. Vigorous stirring will break the bread down into a paste.
- Skimping on Seasonings: Stuffing needs bold flavor. Don’t be afraid of the herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Pouring in Cold Broth: The warm broth helps the bread absorb moisture more evenly. Room temp or warm is best.
Final Conclusion
Mastering a classic side dish like this Herbed Bread Stuffing is a culinary win that pays dividends at every meal. It’s proof that from-scratch cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. With its harmonious blend of savory herbs and comforting texture, this reliable stuffing recipe easy is one you’ll return to again and again. We hope it earns a permanent spot in your collection of dependable, delicious quick easy recipes. Give it a try this week and taste the difference homemade makes!
FAQs
Can I make stuffing ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble the stuffing (through step 6) up to one day in advance. Keep it covered in the baking dish in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the covered baking time if needed.
What can I use instead of eggs for binding?
For an egg-free version, you can omit the eggs and use a bit more broth. The stuffing may be slightly more crumbly but will still be delicious. A “flax egg” (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg) is another effective binder.
Why is my stuffing dry?
The most common cause is not using enough broth or overcooking. Ensure your bread cubes are fully moistened before baking, and keep the dish covered for the first part of baking to trap steam. You can always add a splash of extra broth before serving if needed.
Can I cook stuffing inside the turkey?
While traditional, cooking stuffing inside the bird requires careful food safety practices to ensure both the turkey and stuffing reach a safe internal temperature (165°F). Baking it in a separate dish, as outlined here, is safer, easier, and allows you to get that desirable crispy top.
How can I make my stuffing more flavorful?
Sauté the herbs with the vegetables to “bloom” their oils, use a high-quality broth, and don’t forget the salt. Adding aromatic ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, a splash of white wine to the skillet, or a teaspoon of poultry seasoning can also deepen the flavor.
