Ah, traditional Thanksgiving stuffing! I can’t imagine a holiday meal without it. This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly autumn day, bringing families together around the table with its savory aroma filling the air. It perfectly complements the turkey, soaking up all those delicious drippings and enhancing each bite. Trust me, when you take that first forkful of this stuffing, you’ll feel that cozy holiday spirit come alive! It’s a cherished recipe that can easily become a family tradition, passed down through generations. Plus, it’s so simple and satisfying to make! I can’t wait to share my favorite way to prepare this classic dish, so let’s dive right in!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create the most delicious traditional Thanksgiving stuffing. Each ingredient plays a vital role, so let’s make sure we’re clear on what to grab!

1 loaf of bread, cubed (I love using a hearty sourdough or rustic bread for extra flavor!)
1 cup of celery, diced (adds a nice crunch and freshness)
1 cup of onion, diced (the aromatic base that makes everything taste amazing)
1/2 cup of butter (don’t skimp on this for that rich flavor)
2 cups of chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
1 tablespoon of sage (the classic herb that screams Thanksgiving)
1 tablespoon of thyme (for a warm, earthy note)
1/2 teaspoon of salt (to enhance all those flavors)
1/2 teaspoon of pepper (just a pinch for a little kick)
2 eggs, beaten (these help bind everything together)

Make sure to have these ready before you start cooking, and you’ll be on your way to stuffing heaven in no time!

How to Prepare Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing

Making this traditional Thanksgiving stuffing is as easy as pie—well, maybe easier! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful dish that everyone will rave about!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and warm when your stuffing is ready to bake.
Melt the butter: In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. You’ll want it fully melted, but keep an eye on it—it shouldn’t brown!
Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion and celery to the skillet. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re soft and fragrant. Trust me, your kitchen is going to smell heavenly!
Mix the stuffing: In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, sautéed veggies, chicken broth, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is evenly coated. Don’t worry if it seems a bit wet; that’s what you want!
Add the eggs: Pour in the beaten eggs and mix well again. This helps bind everything together. Make sure you don’t leave any dry bits of bread!
Transfer to a baking dish: Grease a baking dish (a 9×13 inch works great) and scoop your stuffing mixture into it. Spread it out evenly.
Bake it up: Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. You’re looking for that beautiful golden brown color on top. Yum!

And there you have it! Just remember to keep an eye on it while it bakes; every oven is a little different. You’ll know it’s done when the top is crispy and the middle is warm and inviting. Get ready for a taste of Thanksgiving magic!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s chat about the nutritional aspects of this delightful traditional Thanksgiving stuffing! While these values can vary a bit based on the specific ingredients you use, here’s a general idea of what you can expect per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: Approximately 250
Fat: 12g (with 7g being saturated fat)
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 500mg
Fiber: 2g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keep in mind, these are just estimates to give you a ballpark figure. If you’re looking to tweak the recipe for dietary preferences or needs, feel free to swap ingredients or adjust portions as you see fit. Enjoy your stuffing guilt-free, because it’s all part of that wonderful holiday spirit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This traditional Thanksgiving stuffing is a true crowd-pleaser, and here’s why it deserves a spot on your holiday table:

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this stuffing in no time. It’s perfect for both novice and experienced cooks!
Perfectly Pairs with Turkey: This stuffing is like the best friend of your Thanksgiving turkey—absorb all those delicious drippings and elevate every bite!
Classic Flavor: The combination of sage, thyme, and buttery bread creates a warm, comforting taste that’s nostalgic and heartwarming.
Customizable: Feel free to make it your own! Add your favorite ingredients or herbs for a personal twist that fits your family’s tastes.
Great for Leftovers: This stuffing is just as delicious the next day! It makes for an easy lunch or dinner, simply reheat and enjoy!
Family Tradition: Making this stuffing can become a treasured family ritual—everyone can pitch in and share their own tips for the perfect batch!

Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your Thanksgiving celebrations for years to come!

Tips for Success

Want to make sure your traditional Thanksgiving stuffing turns out absolutely perfect? I’ve got some tried-and-true tips to help you achieve stuffing greatness!

Use Day-Old Bread: For the best texture, use bread that’s a day or two old. It’ll absorb the broth without getting mushy. If you’re in a pinch, you can also dry out fresh bread in the oven for a few minutes!
Get Creative with Herbs: While sage and thyme are classic, don’t be afraid to mix in some rosemary or parsley for a flavor boost. Fresh herbs can really elevate your stuffing!
Experiment with Add-Ins: Want to add some extra flavor? Cooked sausage, diced apples, or even nuts like pecans can add a delightful twist. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly!
Don’t Overmix: When you combine everything, stir gently. You want everything to be mixed well, but overmixing can lead to a dense stuffing—nobody wants that!
Check for Moisture: Before baking, the mixture should be moist but not soggy. If it looks a little too dry, add a splash more broth. You’ll thank me later!
Cover it Up: If the top is browning too quickly while baking, cover it loosely with foil for the first half of the cooking time. This will prevent burning while allowing the stuffing to cook through.
Let it Rest: After baking, let the stuffing sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be on your way to making the best traditional Thanksgiving stuffing ever. Happy cooking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to jazz up your traditional Thanksgiving stuffing, I’ve got some fun ideas to add a unique twist! These variations can really elevate the dish and make it your own:

Herb Medley: Instead of just sage and thyme, try adding some fresh rosemary or parsley for a vibrant kick. The more herbs, the merrier!
Sweet and Savory: Toss in some diced apples or cranberries for a touch of sweetness. They pair wonderfully with the savory bread and herbs, creating a delightful balance.
For the Meaty Lovers: Add cooked sausage or bacon to the mix for a hearty, savory boost. The smoky flavor really complements the other ingredients.
Nuts About It: Chopped pecans or walnuts can bring a lovely crunch and depth of flavor. Just toast them lightly before adding for an extra nutty aroma!
Spice it Up: Want a little heat? Incorporate some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle spicy kick. Your taste buds will thank you!
Veggie Delight: For a more colorful stuffing, add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even zucchini. They’ll add extra moisture and flavor while making the dish visually appealing.
Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free alternative, swap out the regular bread for gluten-free bread or even cornbread! It changes the texture but keeps the deliciousness intact.

These variations are all about making the stuffing reflect your personal tastes and those of your loved ones. Feel free to mix and match until you find your perfect combination. Happy experimenting!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving traditional Thanksgiving stuffing, think of it as the ultimate sidekick to your Thanksgiving feast! This stuffing brings so much to the table, and its savory goodness pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Let’s explore some fabulous options that complement this classic side:

Oven-Roasted Turkey: Of course, the star of the show! The stuffing soaks up those delicious turkey drippings, making each bite even more flavorful. Trust me, it’s a match made in Thanksgiving heaven!
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes are the perfect counterpart. The combination of buttery potatoes and savory stuffing will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish adds a crunchy texture and a bit of freshness to your plate. The creamy sauce and crispy onions balance out the heartiness of the stuffing.
Sweet Potato Casserole: If you love a touch of sweetness with your savory dishes, this is the way to go. The sweet and nutty flavors of sweet potatoes beautifully contrast with the herbal stuffing.
Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of tart cranberry sauce adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the stuffing and turkey. It’s a must-have for that perfect bite!
Gravy: Drizzle some homemade or store-bought gravy over everything! The warm, savory sauce enhances the flavors and keeps the stuffing moist and delicious.
Stuffed Acorn Squash: For a twist, try serving it alongside stuffed acorn squash filled with quinoa, nuts, and cranberries. It’s a delightful and colorful way to round out the meal.

Ultimately, traditional Thanksgiving stuffing is all about creating a warm and inviting feast that brings family and friends together. Arrange these dishes on your table, and watch as everyone eagerly digs in, savoring every last bite of that holiday magic!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Let’s talk about what to do with those delicious leftovers! Properly storing your traditional Thanksgiving stuffing is key to keeping it tasty for days to come. Here’s how I do it:

Cool It Down: First things first, allow the stuffing to cool completely at room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation that can make it soggy.
Store in an Airtight Container: Transfer the cooled stuffing into an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from absorbing any other odors from your fridge. It’ll last up to 3 days in there!
Freezing for Later: If you want to save it for even longer, you can freeze the stuffing! Just portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it’ll keep for about 2 months. Make sure to label them with the date so you know when you made it!

When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, reheating them properly is crucial to maintain that delightful texture and flavor:

Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the stuffing in an even layer in a greased baking dish, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Cover with foil to prevent burning, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Microwave Method: If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just place the stuffing in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel (to keep it from drying out), and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm. Give it a good stir between intervals!

With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor that comforting traditional Thanksgiving stuffing long after the holiday has passed. Enjoy every morsel!

Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing: 7 Heartwarming Secrets

Author: Juanita A. Smith
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A classic dish for Thanksgiving dinner that complements turkey perfectly.

Ingredients

Scale

1 loaf of bread, cubed
1 cup of celery, diced
1 cup of onion, diced
1/2 cup of butter
2 cups of chicken broth
1 tablespoon of sage
1 tablespoon of thyme
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of pepper
2 eggs, beaten

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add onion and celery; sauté until soft.
In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, broth, herbs, salt, and pepper.
Add beaten eggs and mix well.
Transfer to a greased baking dish.
Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

You can add cooked sausage for extra flavor.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: traditional thanksgiving stuffing, stuffing recipe, holiday side dish