Simple Classic Stuffing
Simple Classic Stuffing is a comforting and flavorful side dish featuring stale bread cubes, aromatic herbs, sautéed vegetables, and broth, baked to perfection with a crispy top. Quick to prepare and versatile, it is ideal for holiday dinners or everyday meals, with easy customization options for dietary preferences.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Can be gluten-free with substitutions
Primary Ingredients
- 8 cups stale bread cubes (preferably white or sourdough)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Prepare the Bread Cubes: Use day-old bread cut into 1-inch cubes. If the bread is fresh, toast the cubes lightly in the oven to dry them out and prevent sogginess when mixed.
- Cook the Vegetables: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and diced celery, sautéing for 5 to 7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables. Add freshly chopped sage, thyme, and parsley, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Broth Gradually: Slowly pour the broth into the bread mixture while gently tossing to combine. Add enough broth to moisten the mixture without making it soggy.
- Bake the Stuffing: Transfer the mixture into a buttered baking dish. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15 minutes to achieve a crispy top crust.
Notes
- Use day-old bread to ensure the bread absorbs moisture well without becoming mushy.
- Fresh herbs like parsley, sage, and thyme significantly enhance flavor compared to dried herbs.
- Add broth gradually to keep the stuffing moist but not soaked.
- Butter is essential for richness and developing the perfect crispy texture on top.
- You can assemble the stuffing a day ahead and bake just before serving for convenience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: stuffing, classic stuffing, holiday side dish, bread stuffing, easy stuffing recipe, savory stuffing, gluten-free stuffing option