When it comes to the holiday season, nothing quite captures the spirit of a festive meal like Best Classic Bread Stuffing Recipe . The savory combination of herbs, butter, and toasted bread forms the perfect side dish to complement your roast turkey, ham, or chicken. If you’re looking for a stuffing recipe that stands out, delivers on flavor, and creates a cozy, homey atmosphere, then this is your go-to guide.
But let’s face it – while bread stuffing is a cherished classic, many recipes fail to bring all the elements together seamlessly. Often, they miss out on key tips that elevate a simple stuffing into something extraordinary. In this article, we will walk through every detail to create a perfect bread stuffing recipe – one that balances flavor, texture, and ease of preparation. From selecting the right bread to tips on ensuring crispy edges and moist stuffing, I’ll fill in the gaps that other recipes leave behind.
What You Need to Know Before Making Classic Bread Stuffing
Before diving into the recipe itself, let’s break down some essential information about this dish. Bread stuffing isn’t just a mixture of bread and broth – it’s a harmonious combination of flavors and textures that elevate the meal. Understanding the role of each ingredient is key to mastering this side dish.
Bread Type Matters: The foundation of your stuffing is the bread you choose. While many opt for white sandwich bread, there are several bread varieties that work wonders in stuffing. The best options are:
- French Bread: Known for its airy texture and light crumb, French bread is an excellent choice for stuffing. It holds up well to the liquids and seasonings without becoming mushy.
- Sourdough: Adds a slight tang that contrasts beautifully with the savory herbs.
- Challah or Brioche: For a richer, slightly sweeter stuffing with a soft, pillowy texture.
Why Drying the Bread is Crucial: Dry bread is a critical element of making perfect stuffing. Fresh bread can become too soggy when combined with broth. Allow your bread cubes to dry for at least a day at room temperature or in a low-temperature oven (around 300°F) for 30-40 minutes. This ensures the bread can absorb the flavors without turning into mush.
Herbs & Seasonings: Herbs are the heart of stuffing’s flavor. While classic combinations include parsley, sage, thyme, and marjoram, you can get creative with your herbs to customize the dish to your tastes.
- Fresh Herbs vs. Dried: Fresh herbs give a vibrant, aromatic quality, while dried herbs offer a more concentrated flavor. If you use dried herbs, reduce the quantity by half compared to fresh herbs.
- Other Options: Rosemary, bay leaves, or a dash of poultry seasoning can bring a fresh twist to the classic recipe.
Broth Choices: The liquid in stuffing adds richness and depth of flavor. While chicken broth is the most common, turkey broth is ideal for a Thanksgiving stuffing, as it complements the turkey flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a great substitute. Always opt for low-sodium broths so you can control the salt level in the recipe.
Now, let’s move to the step-by-step guide to making this classic bread stuffing recipe.
How to Make the Best Classic Bread Stuffing
Ingredients
Here is what you’ll need to make approximately 10 servings of stuffing, perfect for a family-sized meal:
- 1 loaf French bread (cut into 1/2-inch cubes and dried)
- 1/2 cup butter (plus extra for greasing the dish)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 celery ribs, chopped
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups chicken broth (or turkey broth)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh sage, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon dried sage)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh marjoram, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
- If you haven’t already dried your bread, do so now. Cut the loaf of French bread into cubes, spread them on a baking sheet, and place them in an oven preheated to 300°F. Bake for 30-40 minutes, tossing halfway through until the cubes are dry and slightly golden.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 7-8 minutes until they soften and become translucent. This step builds the base flavor of the stuffing, making it savory and aromatic.
Step 3: Mix the Liquid Ingredients
- While the vegetables are cooking, crack 3 large eggs into a large mixing bowl. Add the chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until the eggs are well combined with the broth.
Step 4: Incorporate Herbs and Bread
- Once the onions and celery are softened, stir in the fresh parsley, sage, thyme, and marjoram. Let them cook for about 30 seconds to release their fragrance. Then, transfer the vegetable mixture to the bowl with the egg-broth mixture.
- Add the dried bread cubes to the mixture and toss everything gently to combine. The bread cubes should absorb the liquid and become slightly softened but not overly soggy.
Step 5: Bake the Stuffing
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Pour the stuffing mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. This step allows the stuffing to heat through and become tender. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes to allow the top to crisp up and form a golden-brown crust.
Tips for the Perfect Classic Bread Stuffing
- Make Ahead: Stuffing can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 1 day before baking. Just prepare the stuffing as directed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. Bake it when you’re ready.
- Crispy Edges: If you love crispy edges, spread the stuffing out in a wider baking dish, ensuring more surface area gets exposed to the heat for extra crispness.
- Slow Cooker Option: For a hands-off approach, consider making the stuffing in a slow cooker. Simply prepare the stuffing, place it in the slow cooker, and cook on low for 3-4 hours. This method gives you the same great flavor, with a soft, chewy texture and crispy edges from the lid.
- Gluten-Free Version: If you need a gluten-free option, simply substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread. The recipe will still have the same delicious flavor, with no one being able to tell the difference.
How to Serve Classic Bread Stuffing
Classic bread stuffing pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It’s an ideal side for a Thanksgiving turkey, but it’s also fantastic alongside a roasted chicken or glazed ham. For something a bit different, serve it alongside a savory roast of lamb or pork. The combination of savory herbs and crispy edges makes this stuffing a perfect complement to any roast.
Not just for Thanksgiving, this stuffing is a perfect side for any holiday or family gathering. Consider pairing it with:
- Roast Chicken: A tender, juicy chicken with crispy skin is the perfect match for the earthy flavors of bread stuffing.
- Roast Turkey: The ultimate pairing! Bread stuffing soaks up the turkey drippings, enhancing its flavor and texture.
- Holiday Ham: The slight sweetness of ham and the savory, herby stuffing are a match made in holiday heaven.
Stay tuned for the next section, where I will delve into storing and freezing this classic bread stuffing recipe, and answer some frequently asked questions to ensure your stuffing turns out perfect every time. If you’re ready for the next chunk, just let me know!
Storing and Freezing Your Classic Bread Stuffing
How to Store Leftover Stuffing
Classic bread stuffing is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored for up to 4 days. Simply place the leftover stuffing in an airtight container and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes. If you want to keep the edges crispy, consider reheating it uncovered for the last few minutes.
Freezing Classic Bread Stuffing
Freezing stuffing is an excellent way to prepare ahead, especially during the busy holiday season. Here’s how to do it right:
- Assemble the Stuffing: Prepare the stuffing as per the recipe, but stop before baking it.
- Freeze Unbaked: Transfer the unbaked stuffing into a freezer-safe container or cover it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This will help preserve its flavor and texture.
- Thaw and Bake: When you’re ready to bake the stuffing, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then, bake it at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes covered with foil, and another 15 minutes uncovered for crispy edges.
By freezing the stuffing before baking, you’ll have a stress-free dish that’s ready to go without compromising on taste.
FAQs On Classic Bread Stuffing Recipe
How to make easy stuffing with bread?
Making easy stuffing with bread is simple and requires just a few basic ingredients. Start by cutting your bread into cubes and drying them either in the oven or by leaving them out overnight. Then, sauté onions and celery in butter, and mix them with the dried bread cubes. Add your broth, herbs, and seasoning, and mix everything well. Finally, bake the stuffing in a preheated oven at 400°F until golden and crispy. It’s as easy as that!
What is traditional stuffing made of?
Traditional stuffing, often referred to as “dressing,” is made from bread cubes, butter, onions, celery, broth (chicken or turkey), and a blend of herbs like sage, thyme, and parsley. Some versions may also include eggs to help bind the ingredients together. The stuffing can be cooked in a baking dish or inside the turkey, absorbing the flavors of the bird while it cooks.
What type of bread makes the best stuffing?
The best bread for stuffing is sturdy enough to absorb the liquids without turning mushy. Common options include French bread, sourdough, and challah. These types of bread have a firm texture and open crumb, allowing them to soak in the broth and seasonings while still holding their shape. Avoid soft white bread, as it can become too soggy.
Does bread stuffing need an egg?
While eggs are often used in bread stuffing to help bind the ingredients together and provide structure, they are not strictly necessary. If you prefer a vegetarian or egg-free version, you can omit the eggs. To achieve similar binding results, you can substitute eggs with a flax or chia egg, or simply add a bit more broth to help hold everything together.
Can I prepare stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare stuffing ahead of time! In fact, it’s a great way to save time on the day of your meal. After assembling the stuffing, cover it tightly and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and cook until golden and crispy. You can also freeze unbaked stuffing for later use, thawing it overnight before baking.
Classic Bread Stuffing Recipe Card
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf French bread (cut into 1/2-inch cubes, dried)
- 1/2 cup butter (plus extra for greasing the dish)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 celery ribs, chopped
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups chicken broth (or turkey broth)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh sage, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon dried sage)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh marjoram, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, and sauté for about 7-8 minutes until softened and translucent.
- While the vegetables are cooking, crack 3 eggs into a large bowl. Whisk in the chicken broth, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir the sautéed onion, celery, and herbs (parsley, sage, thyme, and marjoram) into the egg mixture. Mix well.
- Add the dried bread cubes to the bowl and toss to combine, ensuring the bread absorbs the broth and herbs.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.
Notes:
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the stuffing up to 1 day in advance. Store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
- Freezing Tip: Assemble the stuffing, but don’t bake it. Freeze the unbaked stuffing in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
- Bread Options: You can use French bread, sourdough, or challah for the best stuffing texture.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to make it vegetarian.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 231 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 495mg
- Potassium: 194mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 701 IU
- Vitamin C: 9mg
- Calcium: 48mg
- Iron: 2mg
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
