Old Fashioned Bread Stuffing

Welcome to my West Virginia Kitchen!  There's just something comforting about classic recipes that have stood the test of time.  Old Fashioned Bread Stuffing is one of those nostalgic dishes that takes me back to family dinners filled with laughter and the aroma of home-cooked meals.  Whether it's Thanksgiving, a holiday gathering, or a Sunday family feast, this bread stuffing is the perfect accompaniment to any main course.  

In this blog post, I'll walk you through an easy-to-follow recipe that's loaded with warmth, fresh herbs, the richness of butter, and the crunch of perfectly bakes bread.  Plus, I'll include tips and tricks to make sure your stuffing turns out just right, every time!  I can't wait to share it with you so...

Let's Get started!








WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE:

• Classic Flavor:  It embodies traditional holiday flavors with fresh sage, thyme, and parsley.  
• Customizable:  Add your favorite ingredients like cranberries, sausage, or or apples to make it your own.  
• Easy to Prepare:  No complex techniques; just simple, hearty cooking. 
• Perfect for Gatherings:  It serves as a crowd-pleaser for any holiday table.  

INGREDEINTS:

• 1 loaf (about 1 pound) of day-old bread, cubed (preferably French or sourdough)
• 3 Stalks of Celery, finely diced
• 1 Onion, diced
• 1 Tbsp Garlic, minced
• 2 1/2 cups Chicken Broth
• 1 cup of Unsalted Butter
• 2 Eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/2 tsp. Parsley
• 1/2 tsp. Thyme
• 1/4 tsp. Sage
• Salt & Pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the Oven:  Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).  Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and toast for 10-15 minutes until dry but not browned.  Set aside to cool.
2. Melt the Butter:  Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.  Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking until they are soft and translucent (about 8-10 minutes).  Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.  
3. Add the Herbs:  Mix in the sage, thyme, and parsley.  Season with salt and pepper.  Cook for another 2 minutes until the herbs become fragrant. 
4. Combine the Bread and Vegetables:  In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the cooked onion and celery mixture.  Gently toss until the bread is evenly coated.
5. Add Broth and Eggs:  Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the bread mixture, stirring to moisten.  Add the beaten eggs and mix gently until everything is evenly incorporated.  
6. Transfer to a Baking Dish:  Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and pour the stuffing mixture into it.  Spread it out evenly and cover with foil.
7. Bake:  Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes covered.  Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. 
8. Serve:  Let the stuffing rest for a few minutes before serving.  Enjoy the rich, savory flavors alongside your favorite main dishes!

STEP-BY-STEP PHOTOGRAPHS:

TIPS AND TRICKS:

• Dry Out the Bread:  If you're short on time, use store bought pre-cubed stuffing bread.  Just be sure it's stale or toasted to absorb the flavors well.  
• Flavor Enhancement:  Add cooked sausage or sautéed mushrooms for an extra layer of richness.  
• Broth Control:  Add the broth gradually to avoid making the stuffing too soggy.  The texture should be moist, but not overly wet.  
• Make it Ahead:  You can assemble the stuffing up to a day in advance.  Just cover and store it in the the refrigerator, then bake it on the day you're serving.

FAQs:

Can I use gluten-free bread?

Yes, gluten-free bread works well as long as it's toasted to a similar dryness.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth to create a flavorful vegetarian version. 

Can I freeze the stuffing?  

Yes, you can freeze the baked stuffing.  Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to a month.  Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

What if I don't have fresh herbs?  

Dried herbs work well in this recipe too.  Just remember that dry herbs are more potent so maybe add a little at a time.  

This Old Fashioned Bread Stuffing Recipe is perfect for creating cherished memories around the dining table.  It's a timeless dish that's easy to prepare yet rich in flavor.  Whether it's served alongside a golden roasted turkey or as a side to a weekday chicken dinner, this stuffing will bring warmth and satisfaction to any meal.  

And as always,

Happy Eatin' Y'all!
~The Kitchen Wife~