Introduction
No holiday feast is complete without a warm, flavorful serving of Classic Butter Herb Stuffing! This comforting side dish is packed with rich, buttery flavors and aromatic herbs, making it the perfect complement to roasted turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian main course.
Stuffing has been a staple at Thanksgiving and festive meals for centuries, originating from traditional European recipes where bread, herbs, and butter were combined to create a hearty, flavorful dish. Whether you’re hosting a grand holiday dinner or simply craving a cozy meal, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Dish?
- Perfect holiday side dish – A must-have for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special meal.
- Rich, buttery flavor – Infused with classic herbs and warm spices.
- Easy to prepare – Simple ingredients come together for an incredible dish.
- Customizable – Add sausage, cranberries, or nuts for a unique twist.
Origin of This Dish
Stuffing traces its roots back to ancient Rome, where it was originally used to stuff meats and poultry for extra flavor. Over time, the dish evolved, with European and American influences shaping it into the classic butter herb stuffing we love today.
Ingredients for Classic Butter Herb Stuffing
- 1 loaf of French bread or sourdough, cubed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Method of Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Cubes
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Spread cubed bread on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until dry.
- Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add onions and celery, cooking until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine toasted bread cubes and sautéed vegetables.
- Pour in chicken broth and beaten eggs, stirring to coat evenly.
- Add chopped parsley and mix well.
Step 4: Bake the Stuffing
- Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until golden brown on top.
- Remove from oven and let rest before serving.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
- Bread – Provides fiber and carbohydrates for energy.
- Butter – Contains healthy fats and vitamins A & D.
- Celery & Onion – High in antioxidants and fiber, promoting digestion.
- Herbs (sage, thyme, rosemary) – Rich in anti-inflammatory properties and add depth of flavor.
Cooking Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Tips:
- Use day-old bread – Dry bread absorbs flavors better.
- Sauté vegetables properly – Cooking them enhances the flavor of the stuffing.
- Adjust broth quantity – Add more or less based on your preferred stuffing texture.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Using fresh, soft bread – It will turn mushy instead of fluffy.
- Not seasoning well – Herbs and butter make all the difference.
- Skipping the resting period – Letting the stuffing sit after baking helps absorb flavors.
Serving Tips
- Pair with roasted turkey, chicken, or ham for a traditional holiday meal.
- Top with toasted nuts or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor.
- Drizzle with homemade gravy for extra richness.
Interesting Facts About This Dish
- The first recorded stuffing recipe dates back to ancient Rome.
- Cornbread stuffing is a Southern twist on the classic version.
- Some cultures stuff vegetables like peppers and squash instead of poultry.
Summarized Recipe
- Toast bread cubes until dry.
- Sauté onions, celery, and herbs in butter.
- Mix bread cubes, broth, eggs, and herbs together.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
This Classic Butter Herb Stuffing recipe brings warmth and flavor to your holiday table. Whether as a traditional side or a comforting dish for any occasion, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
