Are you looking for the perfect side dish to complement your Thanksgiving turkey or a delicious weeknight addition to your dinner plate? Look no further! This easy stuffing recipe, bursting with the aromatic warmth of poultry seasoning, is sure to become a family favorite. Forget complicated recipes – this homemade delight is surprisingly quick and simple to make, offering a healthy and delicious alternative to store-bought options. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will guide you to stuffing perfection. Get ready to elevate your meal with this flavorful and satisfying side!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced (or your favorite mushroom variety!)
- 6 cups cubed bread (day-old bread works best!)
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for added freshness)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until they release their moisture and start to brown slightly. This step builds a delicious base of flavor for your stuffing.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, poultry seasoning, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the bread is evenly coated with herbs and spices.
Step 3: Assemble the Stuffing
Add the sautéed vegetables to the bread mixture. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring gently to combine. The bread will absorb the liquid; you want the stuffing to be moist but not soggy. If using fresh parsley, stir it in now.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through. You can cover the dish with foil for the first 20 minutes to prevent the top from browning too quickly.
Tips for the Best Stuffing:
- Bread Choice: Day-old bread is ideal as it absorbs the liquid better than fresh bread. You can also use a variety of bread types, such as sourdough or Italian bread, for added flavor and texture.
- Broth Variation: Feel free to experiment with different types of broth, such as turkey broth or even a flavorful homemade broth for a more intense flavor profile.
- Add-ins: Get creative with your stuffing! Consider adding chopped apples, cranberries, sausage, chestnuts, or other ingredients to personalize your recipe.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 200-250 (depending on bread type and additions)
This recipe offers a balanced mix of carbohydrates from the bread, and a good source of fiber. The vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, making this a relatively healthy side dish.
This simple yet flavorful stuffing recipe is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious aroma and satisfying taste of this homemade classic, whether it's Thanksgiving, a family dinner, or just a weeknight meal. The easy steps and versatile nature of this recipe make it a go-to for both beginner and experienced cooks. Happy cooking!