This homemade bread stuffing is a classic side dish, perfect for holiday meals or family gatherings. Made with fresh bread, aromatic herbs, and savory vegetables, it complements roasted meats beautifully.
The recipe is simple and can be customized with your favorite ingredients, such as sausage, nuts, or dried fruits, to enhance the flavor and texture.
Creating the Perfect Bread Stuffing
Homemade bread stuffing is a cherished dish that adds warmth to any meal. The combination of golden-brown bread cubes, sautéed onions, and celery creates a delightful texture and flavor profile.
This dish is not only a staple for holiday gatherings but also a comforting side for family dinners. The simplicity of the ingredients allows for versatility, enabling you to customize it to your liking.
Ingredients That Shine
The foundation of this stuffing is a loaf of bread, which should be cubed and dried to achieve the perfect texture.
Onions and celery are sautéed in butter, infusing the dish with rich flavors. Fresh herbs like sage and thyme elevate the taste, while a sprinkle of parsley adds a touch of color and freshness.
Preparation Steps
Begin by preparing the bread. If it’s not stale, cut it into cubes and dry it in the oven. This step is crucial for achieving the right consistency in your stuffing.
Next, sauté the onions and celery until they are soft and fragrant. This mixture will blend beautifully with the bread and herbs, creating a savory filling.
Moisture Matters
To bring the stuffing together, gradually add broth to the bread mixture.
The goal is to moisten the bread without making it soggy. A careful balance of moisture will ensure that each bite is flavorful and satisfying.
Baking to Perfection
Once combined, transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish. Cover it with foil to retain moisture during the initial baking phase.
After thirty minutes, remove the foil to allow the top to crisp up, resulting in a golden-brown finish that is visually appealing and delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Let the stuffing cool slightly before serving. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, making it a perfect addition to any festive table setting.
Consider garnishing with additional fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This dish not only complements the main course but also brings a sense of home and comfort to the dining experience.
Easy Bread Stuffing Recipe
This stuffing features cubed bread mixed with sautéed onions, celery, and a blend of herbs, all moistened with broth. It takes about 45 minutes to prepare and bake, serving approximately 6-8 people.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread (about 1 pound), cubed and dried
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2-3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: 1 cup cooked sausage, nuts, or dried fruits
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: If the bread is not already stale, cut it into cubes and spread it on a baking sheet. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes until dried but not browned.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, and sauté until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the dried bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, herbs, salt, and pepper. If using, add sausage, nuts, or dried fruits.
- Moisten the Mixture: Gradually add broth to the bread mixture, stirring until the bread is moistened but not soggy.
- Bake the Stuffing: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown on top.
- Serve: Let the stuffing cool slightly before serving alongside your favorite roasted meats.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 servings
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 20g