This bread stuffing is a cozy mix of soft bread, herbs, and yummy seasonings! It pairs perfectly with roast meats and adds a warm touch to your table.
Making bread stuffing is so easy! Just mix the ingredients, bake, and enjoy the tasty smell filling your kitchen. I can’t help but sneak bites before dinner! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Day-old bread is perfect as it’s drier, giving better texture. I love sourdough for its flavor, but white or whole wheat works too. If gluten-free, look for gluten-free bread options!
Onion and Celery: These add a lovely base to your stuffing. If you’re not a fan, you can use shallots instead of onions for a sweeter taste. Leeks are another great option if you want a milder onion flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is traditional, but you can use olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version. The flavor is just as good!
Herbs: Sage is a must for that classic stuffing flavor. If you can’t find it, try poultry seasoning as a substitute. For fresher taste, use fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, or thyme.
Broth: Chicken broth is common, but vegetable broth is a great vegetarian swap. You can even use mushroom broth for extra depth!
How Do I Get My Stuffing Crispy on Top?
A crispy top is all about the baking technique! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with toasted bread cubes to avoid sogginess.
- Cover the dish with foil during the first half of baking to keep moisture in.
- Uncover it later for the last 10-15 minutes to brown the top.
- Brush the top with a little melted butter for added crispness.
Keeping an eye on it towards the end will ensure it reaches that golden perfection. Enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen!
Delicious Bread Stuffing Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 10 cups cubed day-old bread (preferably white or sourdough)
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45 minutes to bake, making a total time of around 1 hour. It’s quick to throw together and the baking time fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Bread:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cubed bread evenly on a baking sheet and pop it in the oven. Toast for about 15 minutes, or until the cubes are dry and lightly golden. This will give your stuffing a nice texture. Once done, take it out and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the chopped onion and celery to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are softened, which will take about 8 minutes.
3. Add the Herbs:
Once your onions and celery are soft, stir in the dried sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook everything together for another minute to allow the flavors to combine and become fragrant.
4. Combine It All Together:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the sautéed vegetable and herb mixture. Gently mix everything together. Now, slowly pour in the chicken (or vegetable) broth while stirring, until the bread is moistened but not soggy. You want it damp but not swimming in liquid!
5. Add Fresh Parsley (Optional):
If you’re using it, fold in the chopped fresh parsley to add a burst of color and freshness to your stuffing.
6. Bake the Stuffing:
Transfer the whole mixture into a greased baking dish. Cover it with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to crisp up the top.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Take your delicious bread stuffing out of the oven and serve it warm as a delightful side dish. It’s perfect for family dinners, especially alongside turkey or roasted chicken!
This classic bread stuffing is fragrant with herbs and has crispy golden bread cubes throughout—sure to be a hit at your table!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While day-old white or sourdough bread is a classic choice, you can experiment with whole wheat, rye, or even cornbread for different flavors and textures. Just ensure the bread is dried out to hold up in the stuffing.
How Can I Make This Stuffing Vegetarian?
To make this stuffing vegetarian, simply swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth. The flavor will still be rich and delicious, and you can also enhance it with more herbs or sautéed mushrooms for added depth.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions if you prefer!
