There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of Old-Fashioned Stuffing wafting through the house. It’s like a warm hug from your grandma, reminding you that everything is right in the world. The toasty bread mingles with fragrant herbs, creating an irresistible invitation to gather around the table.
I remember my first Thanksgiving dinner where I bravely took on the stuffing challenge. The kitchen was a battlefield of ingredients, and I somehow emerged victorious. Everyone raved about it, making that moment unforgettable for me. Now, I can’t imagine any festive gathering without this classic dish making an appearance.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Old-Fashioned Stuffing recipe is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor
- Its golden-brown crust makes it visually appealing and perfect for any holiday table
- You can easily customize it with your favorite herbs or add-ins
- It’s versatile enough to serve as a side dish or even as a main course for vegetarian friends!
My family still talks about that initial stuffing experience, which was a delightful mix of pride and panic when things nearly went awry but ended up tasting divine.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Stale Bread: Use day-old bread for optimal texture; it absorbs flavors without getting mushy.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; chop finely for even cooking.
Celery: Fresh celery contributes crunch and a lovely aromatic element; choose firm stalks.
Butter: Unsalted butter enhances flavor without adding extra salt; go generous here!
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels; it’s the liquid gold of stuffing.
Dried Herbs: Thyme and sage are traditional favorites that bring warmth and nostalgia; fresh is great if you have it!
Pecans or Walnuts (optional): Add toasted nuts for an unexpected crunch; they elevate the flavor profile.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Stuffing
Prepare Your Bread Base: Tear stale bread into bite-sized pieces and spread them on a baking sheet. Toast them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until golden brown, about 10 minutes—this helps enhance their texture.
Sauté Aromatics: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and celery, cooking until soft and translucent—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Add Herbs and Nuts: Stir in dried thyme and sage along with optional pecans or walnuts. Cook for another minute to release those fragrant oils—the anticipation will be through the roof!
Pour in Broth: Gradually pour chicken broth into the mixture while stirring gently until everything is well combined. It should be moist but not overly soggy—like a cozy blanket instead of a raincoat.
Bake Your Stuffing: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes until the top is crispy and golden—this is when your guests will start hovering around!
Strong tips: Remember to let it cool slightly before serving—burnt tongues are never fun!
Old-Fashioned Stuffing is more than just food; it’s nostalgia on a plate. Whether you’re sharing it with family during Thanksgiving or savoring leftovers on a quiet Sunday evening, each bite evokes memories worth cherishing. Enjoy this traditional recipe that has stood the test of time!
You Must Know
- Old-Fashioned Stuffing is the heart of a cozy holiday meal
- The blend of spices and herbs creates an irresistible aroma that fills your home, drawing everyone to the kitchen
- Perfectly crunchy on top yet moist inside, it’s far more than just a side dish; it’s comfort food at its finest
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and celery until soft, then mix with bread cubes and broth for flavor. Bake until golden.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out bread types or add ingredients like sausage, nuts, or dried fruit for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your Old-Fashioned Stuffing turns out perfectly every time, remember to use stale bread for better texture
- Don’t skimp on seasoning; it makes all the difference
- Also, avoid overmixing to keep that desired crumbly texture intact
Sharing this recipe always gets me nostalgic about Thanksgiving dinners filled with laughter and delicious aromas wafting through the house.
FAQ
What type of bread is best for Old-Fashioned Stuffing?
Use day-old white or sourdough bread for optimal texture and flavor absorption.
Can I make Old-Fashioned Stuffing ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge.
Is Old-Fashioned Stuffing gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread alternatives.
Old-Fashioned Stuffing
Indulge in the warm, nostalgic flavors of Old-Fashioned Stuffing, a quintessential dish that brings comfort to any holiday gathering. This easy-to-make recipe features toasty bread infused with fragrant herbs, creating an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. Perfect as a side or main dish, this stuffing can be customized to suit your taste. Gather your loved ones and enjoy a delightful experience that evokes cherished memories.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8 cups stale bread, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts (optional), chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the stale bread pieces on a baking sheet and toast for about 10 minutes until golden brown.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and celery; sauté until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the dried thyme, sage, and optional nuts; cook for another minute to release their flavors.
- Gradually add chicken broth while stirring gently until well combined but not soggy.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes until the top is crispy and golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating sausage or dried fruit into the stuffing mixture. To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days; reheat in the oven for best results.
