World's Best Stuffing
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Transform your holiday meals with this delectable World's Best Stuffing recipe. Bursting with savory herbs, fresh vegetables, and soft bread, this stuffing is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any festive gathering. Perfectly seasoned and easy to prepare, it's the ultimate side dish to complement your turkey or chicken.
This stuffing recipe has been handed down through generations, and it's no wonder why. It's a comforting blend of textures and flavors that elevates any holiday meal.
The Perfect Holiday Side Dish
Stuffing is a beloved classic that graces tables during holiday feasts and family gatherings. Its warm, hearty nature makes it more than just a side dish; it's a comforting companion to your main courses. This World’s Best Stuffing recipe is not just any stuffing; it's infused with a rich blend of flavors that elevate the entire meal.
Imagine the delicious aroma wafting through your home as this stuffing bakes to perfection. Each bite offers a wonderful balance of textures, from the soft bread to the slight crunch of sautéed vegetables. This stuffing is designed to be an integral part of your holiday celebrations, providing a delightful blend of traditional flavors that everyone will love.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best features of this stuffing recipe is its versatility. While it's fantastic as is, feel free to tailor it to your taste preferences. Add sausage for heartiness, diced apples for sweetness, or nuts for added texture. This adaptability ensures that every family member can enjoy a version of stuffing that suits their palate.
You can also use a variety of bread types—such as sourdough, whole wheat, or even gluten-free bread—to match your dietary needs. Whichever variations you choose, this stuffing remains a harmonious blend of flavors that showcase its core ingredients beautifully, making it a staple that can fit any occasion.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Planning ahead for the holidays? This stuffing can be made in advance, giving you more time to focus on other dishes. Prepare it a day early by following the recipe up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. On the day of your feast, simply pop it in the oven while your turkey or chicken cooks. It's a true lifesaver for busy kitchens!
Leftovers? No problem! Store any extra stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave. If you're looking to freeze it, consider portioning the stuffing into freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to three months. Just remember to thoroughly reheat it before serving—it's just as delicious on day two as it is freshly made.
Ingredients
Stuffing Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 stalks of celery, diced
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup of butter
Gather all ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother preparation process.
Instructions
Prepare the Bread
Start by cubing the bread and letting it sit out overnight to dry, or bake it in the oven lightly for 10 minutes at 300°F.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cubed bread, sautéed vegetables, herbs, and seasonings. Gradually stir in chicken broth until moist but not soggy.
Bake the Stuffing
Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until golden brown on top.
Let the stuffing cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips for Perfect Stuffing
For best results, use day-old bread. This helps absorb the broth without becoming too mushy. If your bread is fresh, consider toasting it lightly before combining with the other ingredients. Ensuring the right bread texture is key to achieving that desired stuffing consistency.
Don’t rush the sautéing process for your vegetables. Cooking them until they're softened enriches their flavors, ensuring they meld seamlessly with the bread and herbs. A dash of extra seasoning during this step can also enhance the depth of flavor, helping every bite to be savory and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
While this stuffing pairs wonderfully with turkey and chicken, don’t hesitate to serve it alongside other main dishes like pork or beef. Its robust flavor profile complements a variety of meats and adds a delightful element to your plate.
For a dish that's visually appealing, consider garnishing your stuffing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as additional parsley or thyme. This not only enhances the presentation but also gives diners an enticing hint of the delicious flavors inside. Pairing the stuffing with a rich gravy can elevate the experience even further.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this stuffing a day in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it the day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.
→ What type of bread is best to use?
A mix of white bread and whole grain works well, but any bread that you enjoy can be used.
World's Best Stuffing
Transform your holiday meals with this delectable World's Best Stuffing recipe. Bursting with savory herbs, fresh vegetables, and soft bread, this stuffing is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any festive gathering. Perfectly seasoned and easy to prepare, it's the ultimate side dish to complement your turkey or chicken.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Stuffing Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 stalks of celery, diced
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup of butter
How-To Steps
Start by cubing the bread and letting it sit out overnight to dry, or bake it in the oven lightly for 10 minutes at 300°F.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, mix the cubed bread, sautéed vegetables, herbs, and seasonings. Gradually stir in chicken broth until moist but not soggy.
Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until golden brown on top.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 15g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 5g