Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Elevate your holiday meals with this Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing recipe, a delightful blend of buttery bread, aromatic herbs, and savory seasonings. This easy-to-make stuffing is perfect for turkey, chicken, or as a comforting side dish for any occasion. Experience the warm, inviting flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds and thirds!
This stuffing recipe is a family favorite, handed down through generations. It's the perfect accompaniment to your holiday feast.
Elevate Your Holiday Feast
Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing is not just a side dish; it's a cornerstone of any memorable holiday feast. This recipe combines rich flavors and delightful textures that truly elevate your meal. Whether you’re serving it with a beautifully roasted turkey or alongside a succulent chicken, this stuffing will shine on your dinner table. The use of freshly chopped herbs adds a fragrant note that captures the essence of the season.
Moreover, the buttery goodness in this stuffing ensures that each bite is packed with flavor. It’s the perfect companion to your main dishes, absorbing the savory juices while providing a delightful crunch on top. Incorporating this recipe into your holiday traditions will undoubtedly have your family members requesting it year after year.
A Versatile Side Dish
While this stuffing recipe shines during the holidays, its versatility makes it a great choice for any special gathering or even a comforting weeknight dinner. You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your taste—I sometimes add chopped nuts for extra crunch or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness. This adaptability ensures it can fit seamlessly into a variety of culinary themes.
Moreover, if you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, simply replace the loaf of bread with your favorite gluten-free option. You can enjoy the same rich flavors without compromising on dietary needs. No matter how you choose to adapt this recipe, it promises to be a crowd-pleaser.
Perfect Pairings
The rich and savory profile of this stuffing makes it an excellent partner for a variety of main dishes. Try pairing it with roasted meats, such as a savory herb-crusted pork loin or a herb-marinated roast chicken. The stuffing absorbs the juices from the meat, enhancing the overall flavors of your meal and creating a harmonious dining experience.
You can also serve this stuffing alongside vegetable dishes, such as green bean almondine or honey-glazed carrots. The buttery herbs complement the freshness of vegetables beautifully, providing balance on your plate. These thoughtful pairings will impress your guests and leave them raving about your culinary skills.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf of day-old bread, cubed
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced celery
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
Mix the ingredients together before placing them in your baking dish.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and toast in the oven until lightly browned, about 10 minutes.
Cook the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and celery, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, cooked vegetables, herbs, and broth. Mix well to combine and season with salt and pepper.
Bake the Stuffing
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to crisp the top.
Allow the stuffing to cool slightly before serving.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing this buttery herb stuffing properly will ensure you can enjoy it for days to come. After it cools, transfer any leftover stuffing to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
For an even fresher taste, add a little broth or melted butter before reheating to maintain its moisture. This will help revive the delicious flavors, making it just as irresistible as when it was first made.
Customizing Your Stuffing
One of the delights of making stuffing is the ability to customize it to reflect your unique tastes or dietary preferences. Consider adding different herbs or spices to elevate the flavor profile. Some popular options include rosemary, thyme, or even a pinch of nutmeg for a warm hint of sweetness.
Additionally, you can include mix-ins such as cooked sausage or wild rice for an added texture or savory twist. These variations can transform the stuffing into a dish that not only fits your needs but also showcases your creativity in the kitchen.
Why Fresh Ingredients Matter
Using fresh ingredients is crucial in achieving the best flavors in your stuffing. Fresh herbs, such as parsley, sage, and thyme, have a vibrant quality that dried herbs simply cannot replicate. The lively notes of fresh herbs brighten the dish and make it more aromatic, enhancing the overall dining experience.
In addition, fresh bread creates a better texture, allowing for crisping and a delightful chewiness. Opt for day-old artisan bread, which adds flavor complexity and stands up beautifully to butter and broth without becoming too soggy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffing up to a day in advance and bake it just before serving.
→ What types of bread work best?
A sturdy bread like sourdough or French bread works best for stuffing.
Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing
Elevate your holiday meals with this Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing recipe, a delightful blend of buttery bread, aromatic herbs, and savory seasonings. This easy-to-make stuffing is perfect for turkey, chicken, or as a comforting side dish for any occasion. Experience the warm, inviting flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds and thirds!
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf of day-old bread, cubed
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced celery
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and toast in the oven until lightly browned, about 10 minutes.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and celery, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, cooked vegetables, herbs, and broth. Mix well to combine and season with salt and pepper.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to crisp the top.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g