Introduction:

When it comes to Thanksgiving, no dish is more iconic than a heaping serving of classic bread stuffing. This savory side dish, also known as dressing in some regions, is a staple at holiday feasts across the United States. Its warm, comforting flavors and rich textures make it a beloved tradition that brings families together year after year. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps to create a delicious and timeless bread stuffing that will have your guests coming back for seconds.


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Ingredients:

1 loaf of day-old bread (white or whole wheat), cubed

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

1 large onion, finely chopped

2-3 celery stalks, finely chopped

2-3 cloves of garlic, minced

2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme, leaves removed and chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary, leaves removed and chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)

2-3 sprigs of fresh sage, leaves removed and chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)

1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

Salt and pepper, to taste

2-3 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)

Optional: 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins


Instructions:

Preparation:

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Spread the cubed bread evenly on a baking sheet. Toast it in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is lightly browned and crispy. Remove it from the oven and let it cool. This step helps the bread absorb the flavors of the stuffing without becoming mushy.


Making the Stuffing:

In a large skillet or pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables become soft and translucent, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in the fresh thyme, rosemary, and sage. If you're using dried herbs, add them at this stage as well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to release the aromatic flavors.

Add the chopped parsley to the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the sautéed vegetable and herb mixture. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors. If you like a bit of crunch and sweetness in your stuffing, this is the time to add chopped nuts and dried cranberries or raisins.

Gradually pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the bread mixture. Use enough broth to moisten the bread without making it soggy. Stir everything together until the bread is evenly moistened.

Transfer the stuffing mixture into a greased baking dish.


Baking:

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.

Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the stuffing is heated through.


Conclusion:

There you have it – a classic bread stuffing recipe that will be the star of your Thanksgiving table. Whether you serve it alongside roast turkey, ham, or as a standalone side dish, this timeless favorite is sure to delight your family and friends. The combination of crusty bread, aromatic herbs, and savory vegetables creates a harmonious and comforting flavor profile that captures the essence of the holiday season. Enjoy your Thanksgiving feast with this delicious homemade stuffing!