why make this recipe
Perfect Homemade Stuffing is a delicious and comforting dish that brings warmth to any meal, especially during holiday gatherings. This stuffing recipe uses simple ingredients to create a rich and flavorful side that complements turkey, chicken, or even pork. By making it from scratch, you can control the flavors and ensure it turns out just the way you like it.
how to make Perfect Homemade Stuffing
Ingredients:
- 10 cups day-old sourdough or French bread, cubed
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking dish.
- Cube the day-old bread and let it dry out if needed.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the diced onions and chopped celery until soft, which takes about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with the dried bread cubes. Pour in the chicken broth while gently tossing everything to moisten the bread evenly. Season the mixture with sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to the baking dish. Cover it with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to achieve a golden crust.
- Let the stuffing cool slightly before serving.
how to serve Perfect Homemade Stuffing
Serve this Perfect Homemade Stuffing as a side dish with your favorite roasted meats. It pairs wonderfully with turkey during Thanksgiving, but you can enjoy it anytime. For an extra touch, garnish it with fresh herbs before serving.
how to store Perfect Homemade Stuffing
If you have leftover stuffing, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, just place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s warm all the way through.
tips to make Perfect Homemade Stuffing
- Use day-old bread for better texture. Fresh bread can become mushy.
- Feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or cooked sausage for more flavors and textures.
- Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. You can add more herbs if you like.
variation
You can switch out the bread for a different type, like cornbread or whole wheat, for a new flavor. Adding sautéed mushrooms or chestnuts can also enhance the stuffing.
FAQs
Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day before and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or even water if you prefer a lighter flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free bread and ensure your broth is gluten-free.