On a chilly evening, as the scent of fresh herbs fills my kitchen, I can’t help but feel cozy and content. This Savory Classic Bread Stuffing with Fresh Herbs is more than just a side dish; it’s the comforting embrace of home-cooked goodness that brings everyone to the table. With every bite, you’ll experience the buttery richness of sautéed onions and celery combined with the warmth of sage, thyme, and parsley, merging effortlessly to create a hearty stuffing that will have your guests asking for seconds.
Stumbling upon the perfect recipe for homemade stuffing can feel like discovering a hidden treasure, especially when the fast-food culture can easily dull our sense of flavor and satisfaction. Fortunately, this easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delightful masterpiece in just an hour. Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering or simply wanting to impress with your cooking skills, this stuffing is sure to be a hit. Join me as we dive into this delightful culinary adventure, where every spoonful is packed with flavor!
Why You'll Love This Savory Classic Bread Stuffing with Fresh Herbs
- This Savory Classic Bread Stuffing with Fresh Herbs is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a stress-free addition to any meal.
- The harmonious blend of fresh herbs and sautéed vegetables creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and satisfying.
- Its versatility allows you to serve it alongside roasted meats or as a standalone dish during any occasion.
- Visually, the golden-brown topping adds an inviting appeal that will make everyone eager to dig in.
Savory Classic Bread Stuffing Ingredients
Discover the perfect mix of flavors!
For the Base
• 8 cups bread cubes – Ensure your bread is slightly stale for the best texture.
• 1 cup diced onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the stuffing.
• 1 cup diced celery – Provides a lovely crunch and freshness.
For the Flavor
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter – Gives richness and helps sauté the vegetables.
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth – Use broth for a savory depth and moisture.
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped – Offers a warm, aromatic note that defines classic stuffing.
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped – Brings an earthy, slightly minty flavor to the mix.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – Adds a burst of color and brightness.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your Savory Classic Bread Stuffing with Fresh Herbs.
How to Make Savory Classic Bread Stuffing
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Prepare the bread: Cut your day-old bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them on a baking sheet. Let them dry out for a few hours, or toast in a low oven at 300°F for about 15-20 minutes until they are slightly golden and dry.
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Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot or skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking until they’re softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
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Mix the stuffing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried bread cubes with your sautéed vegetables. Stir in the fresh sage, thyme, and parsley, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Gradually pour in the broth, mixing gently until all the bread is moistened but not too soggy.
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Bake to perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is crispy and golden brown.
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh herbs for an added burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Savory Classic Bread Stuffing with Fresh Herbs?
As the seasoned aroma of your stuffing wafts through the kitchen, it’s time to think about what dishes will elevate your meal to a heartwarming feast.
- Roast Chicken: Juicy roasted chicken topped with crisp skin pairs luscious with the herbaceous flavor of the stuffing, making each bite a delight.
- Garlic Green Beans: These vibrant green beans, sautéed with garlic and butter, add a fresh pop of color and contrasting crunch.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a lovely counterpoint to the savory depth of the stuffing, enhancing every forkful.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender glazed carrots balance the richness of the stuffing and add a touch of earthiness to your plate. A perfect harmony!
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky whipped potatoes offer a comforting base, inviting generous spoonfuls of stuffing to mingle with their creamy texture.
- Gravy: A savory turkey or chicken gravy drizzled over both the stuffing and your main dish brings everything together in a luscious, flavorful embrace.
- Buttery Corn: Sweet corn sautéed in butter creates bursts of sweetness to contrast the rich flavors, adding delightful texture to your meal.
- Autumn Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, apple slices, and candied nuts brings crunch and a lightness that brilliantly balances the rich stuffing.
- Apple Pie: End the meal on a sweet note; the warmth of apple pie with its spiced filling complements the stuffing’s savory flavors.
How to Store and Freeze Savory Classic Bread Stuffing
Fridge: Keep leftover Savory Classic Bread Stuffing in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its flavor and freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stuffing in a double-layered freezer bag or airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the stuffing in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth can help restore moisture.
Make Ahead Options
These Savory Classic Bread Stuffing with Fresh Herbs are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can prepare the bread cubes and sauté the onion and celery up to 24 hours in advance; simply store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain the stuffing’s delicious texture, ensure the bread is completely dried out before mixing with the vegetables and herbs. When you’re ready to serve, combine the ingredients, add the broth, and proceed with the baking instructions. This way, the stuffing will be just as flavorful and delightful, saving you valuable time in the kitchen!
Savory Classic Bread Stuffing Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this stuffing to match your family’s taste buds!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread cubes for a safe and equally delicious option.
- Veggie Boost: Add finely diced mushrooms or carrots for extra veggies and a delightful earthiness. A little mushroom umami never hurts!
- Herb-Heavy: Experiment with additional herbs like rosemary or oregano for a fresh twist on flavor that enhances the stuffing’s aromatic essence.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that adds a wonderful texture to the dish. They’ll elevate every bite!
- Sausage Infusion: Incorporate cooked sausage for a meaty depth; the spices in the sausage will add a fantastic complement to the herbs.
- Dairy-Free: Replace unsalted butter with olive oil or coconut oil for a vegan-friendly version that retains a rich flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle heat that awakens the stuffing’s flavors—perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice!
- Fruit Surprise: Mix in dried cranberries or chopped apples for a touch of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory components.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use day-old bread or lightly toast fresh bread at 300°F to achieve the perfect texture for your Savory Classic Bread Stuffing with Fresh Herbs.
- Ensure your vegetables are finely diced to allow for even cooking and distribution throughout the stuffing.
- When mixing in the broth, add it gradually to prevent an overly soggy stuffing; aim for a moist but not wet consistency.
- Finally, for a golden, crispy top, bake uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes at 350°F after initially covering the dish.
Savory Classic Bread Stuffing with Fresh Herbs Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right bread for this stuffing?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your Savory Classic Bread Stuffing with Fresh Herbs, opt for day-old bread. Stale bread has the perfect density to absorb the broth without becoming mushy. If you’re using fresh bread, I recommend lightly toasting it in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 15-20 minutes before cubing to achieve a similar effect.
How should I store leftover stuffing?
Very simple! Keep any leftover Savory Classic Bread Stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This method preserves its freshness and flavor, allowing you to enjoy it with future meals without compromising quality.
Can I freeze the stuffing? What are the steps?
Yes, you can freeze it! To freeze your Savory Classic Bread Stuffing, first let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a double-layered freezer bag or an airtight container. For optimal results, label it with the date and use it within 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What should I do if my stuffing turns out too dry?
If your stuffing feels dry, don’t worry! You can bring it back to life by adding some broth. Just heat a little chicken or vegetable broth and pour it over the stuffing while gently mixing to distribute the moisture. Place it back in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, covered, to steam it a bit and restore its yummy texture.
Are there any allergens in this recipe I should be aware of?
Great question! The ingredients in this Savory Classic Bread Stuffing with Fresh Herbs include butter and potentially gluten from the bread. If you or your guests have allergies, consider opting for gluten-free bread and using a dairy-free butter alternative to keep it safe and delicious for all. Always double-check the labels for any hidden allergens too!
Equipment
- large pot or skillet
- Baking dish
- mixing bowl
- baking sheet
Ingredients
For the Base
- 8 cups bread cubes Ensure your bread is slightly stale for the best texture.
- 1 cup diced onion Adds sweetness and depth to the stuffing.
- 1 cup diced celery Provides a lovely crunch and freshness.
For the Flavor
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter Gives richness and helps sauté the vegetables.
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth Use broth for a savory depth and moisture.
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped Offers a warm, aromatic note that defines classic stuffing.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped Brings an earthy, slightly minty flavor to the mix.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped Adds a burst of color and brightness.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
Instructions
How to Make Savory Classic Bread Stuffing
- Prepare the bread: Cut your day-old bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them on a baking sheet. Let them dry out for a few hours, or toast in a low oven at 300°F for about 15-20 minutes until they are slightly golden and dry.
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot or skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking until they're softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Mix the stuffing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried bread cubes with your sautéed vegetables. Stir in the fresh sage, thyme, and parsley, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Gradually pour in the broth, mixing gently until all the bread is moistened but not too soggy.
- Bake to perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is crispy and golden brown.
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