Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing

Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing is the ultimate comfort food! This rich and flavorful stuffing is perfect for festive occasions or a cozy family dinner. Its buttery aroma and herby taste will make it the star of your meal. Whether you serve it as a side dish or stuff it into poultry, this recipe ensures a delightful experience for everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and clear steps, this stuffing comes together without fuss.
• Versatile Usage: Serve it as a side dish or use it to stuff your favorite protein for added flavor.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Fresh herbs and garlic create an aromatic blend that elevates any meal.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and reheat for convenience without sacrificing taste.
• Customizable Options: Mix different types of bread or herbs to suit your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To create Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet or Dutch oven
• Baking dish (9×13 or larger)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine ingredients easily without spills.
• Skillet or Dutch oven: Ensures even cooking when sautéing vegetables for maximum flavor.
• Baking dish: A good quality baking dish helps achieve an even bake for perfectly cooked stuffing.

Ingredients

This is the best stuffing recipe ever! Served as stuffing or dressing, this buttery herb toasted bread dish is absolutely incredible!

For the Bread Base

• 18 to 24 ounces bread cubes, (1.5 loaves of bread, or about 12 to 14 cups) (preferably toasted or stale)

For the Flavor Base

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 3 cups diced sweet onion, (roughly 2 large onions)
• 2 cups diced celery
• 6 garlic cloves, (minced)
• kosher salt and pepper

For the Herbs

• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary

For Binding

• 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 2 large eggs

For Garnishing

• A mixture of fresh herbs for sprinkling

How to Make Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing

Step 1: Prepare Your Bread Cubes

Note about the bread cubes! You have options here. Stale or toasty bread works best.
1. Cut 1 ½ pounds of bread into cubes, place them in a large baking dish, loosely tent with foil, and let sit overnight.
2. Alternatively, cut cubes and toast them at 350 degrees F until they resemble croutons, about 15 minutes.
3. You can also purchase pre-toasted bread cubes from the store.

Step 2: Combine Bread Types

My mom has always used a mixture of stale and fresh bread.
– I like to mix different kinds of bread, typically sourdough and Italian, for great texture.

Step 3: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Brush a baking dish with melted butter, olive oil, or nonstick spray.
– Place your bread in a large mixing bowl or directly in the baking dish for easier stirring.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted:
1. Stir in onion, celery, and garlic with salt and pepper (about ½ to 1 teaspoon each).
2. Cook until softened, approximately 8-10 minutes.
3. Stir in sage, parsley, rosemary, and cook for another minute before adding one cup of stock.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Pour the onion mixture over the bread cubes and toss well to coat evenly.

Step 6: Prepare Egg Mixture

In a small bowl or measuring cup:
– Whisk together the remaining stock (1½ cups) and eggs until well combined.

Step 7: Mix Everything Together

Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes:
– Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 8: Bake Your Stuffing

Bake for 45-50 minutes until an internal temperature of 160 degrees F is reached:
– If browning too quickly, tent with foil during baking.

Step 9: Make Ahead Options

This stuffing can be made a day ahead:
– Just remove from fridge one hour before reheating.

Step 10: Adjust Portions

To serve smaller groups:
– Cut this recipe in half to bake in an appropriate sized dish; bake time remains similar.
To serve larger groups:
– Double this recipe; use larger dishes as required while maintaining bake time adjustments if needed.

How to Serve Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing

Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing is a versatile dish that pairs well with various meals. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a simple family dinner, here are some delicious ways to enjoy it.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside roast chicken or turkey for a classic holiday meal.
• Pair with beef or lamb for a hearty dinner option.

Stuffed in Vegetables

• Use as a filling for bell peppers or zucchini for a flavorful vegetarian option.
• Hollow out tomatoes and stuff them with this mixture before baking for a unique twist.

In Casseroles

• Mix with cooked vegetables and cheese to create a comforting casserole.
• Layer between sheets of phyllo dough for an impressive savory pie.

With Gravy

• Top with homemade chicken or vegetable gravy to enhance the flavors.
• Serve it as part of a brunch spread with eggs and gravy for a comforting meal.

How to Perfect Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing

Perfecting our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing can elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure you get it just right:

• Use Stale Bread: It better absorbs the flavors and won’t turn mushy during cooking.
• Mix Different Breads: Combining varieties like sourdough and Italian adds depth and texture.
• Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Allow onions and celery enough time to soften, enhancing their sweetness.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference before baking.
• Consider Add-ins: Dried fruits or nuts can add an interesting flavor contrast.

Best Side Dishes for Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing

Pairing side dishes with our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic complement the stuffing beautifully.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies seasoned and roasted add color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Green Bean Almondine: Crisp green beans sautéed with almonds provide crunch and freshness.
4. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce balances the rich flavors of the stuffing perfectly.
5. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots add a pop of color and flavor that pairs well with savory dishes.
6. Simple Garden Salad: A refreshing salad dressed lightly offers a nice contrast to heavier fare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making stuffing can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can lead to subpar results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Fresh Bread: Fresh bread can make your stuffing soggy. Opt for stale or toasted bread cubes for the best texture.

• Skipping the Seasoning: Failing to season your vegetables can result in bland stuffing. Always add salt and pepper generously to enhance the flavors.

• Not Letting it Sit: Rushing the process without letting the flavors meld can diminish taste. Allow your mixture to rest briefly before baking for better flavor integration.

• Ignoring Liquid Ratios: Too much liquid can lead to mushy stuffing, while too little can dry it out. Follow the recipe closely and adjust based on your bread type.

• Overbaking or Undercooking: Baking for too long can dry out your stuffing, while undercooking may leave it soggy. Keep an eye on the temperature to ensure it’s just right.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure it is cooled completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date for reference.

Reheating Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth and heat gently over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing that might help you as you prepare this delicious dish.

Can I use different types of bread in Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing?

Absolutely! Mixing different breads like sourdough and Italian will add unique textures and flavors.

How do I make Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing ahead of time?

You can prepare it a day in advance, refrigerate, and then reheat before serving. Just remove it from the fridge an hour before reheating.

What herbs work best in Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing?

Fresh herbs like sage, parsley, and rosemary create wonderful flavor combinations. Feel free to experiment with others!

Can I use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock?

Yes! Vegetable stock is a great alternative if you’re looking for a plant-based option. It will still provide rich flavor.

Final Thoughts

Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing is not only delicious but also versatile enough to adapt to your preferences. Whether you stick with traditional flavors or customize with your favorite herbs and breads, this recipe promises to delight at any gathering. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!