My Mom’s Perfect Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe
Thanksgiving is the time for traditions, and no table is complete without the classic stuffing that makes the holiday meal truly special. This recipe for my mom’s Thanksgiving stuffing is more than just a side dish; it’s a flavorful centerpiece that pairs perfectly with turkey. Packed with herbs, savory bread cubes, vegetables, and a hint of chicken broth, this stuffing stays moist and full of flavor throughout the cooking process. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, this stuffing recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the steps to create this holiday classic.
Ingredients
For the Stuffing
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green pepper, diced
- 1 cup butter
- 3/4 cup diced celery (or about 1 teaspoon celery seed as a substitute)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups canned chicken broth
- 1 bag Pepperidge Farm herbed seasoned stuffing (16 oz., found in a blue & white bag, made with crumbs rather than cubes or croutons)
- 1 bag soft bread cubes (16-20 oz.)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley flakes (or use fresh parsley for more flavor)
- 1 teaspoon oregano
For Cooking the Turkey
- 1 Reynolds turkey-sized baking bag
- 1 turkey (size based on your serving needs)
- 2 tablespoons flour (for the baking bag)
- Softened butter for coating the turkey
- Paprika (for sprinkling over the turkey)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Bread Mixture
Step 1: Combine Bread Cubes and Stuffing Mix
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bag of soft bread cubes with the Pepperidge Farm herbed seasoned stuffing. This mix of bread textures adds depth to the stuffing, with soft bread soaking up flavors while the seasoned crumbs provide an herbaceous base.
Sautéing the Vegetables
Step 2: Sauté Onions, Peppers, and Celery
In a frying pan over medium-high heat, melt 1 cup of butter. Add the diced onion, green pepper, and celery (or celery seed, if substituting) to the pan. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and translucent, releasing their flavors into the butter.
Mixing the Ingredients
Step 3: Combine Vegetables and Bread Mix
Pour the melted butter and sautéed vegetable mixture over the combined bread cubes and stuffing crumbs. Toss well, ensuring that the bread mixture is evenly coated with the butter and vegetables for enhanced flavor.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Seasonings
Add the two beaten eggs to the bread mixture and toss until thoroughly combined. Next, sprinkle in the garlic powder, poultry seasoning, dried parsley flakes, and oregano. Toss the mixture again to distribute the herbs and spices evenly.
Adding Chicken Broth
Step 5: Moisten the Stuffing with Chicken Broth
Slowly pour the chicken broth over the stuffing mixture. Aim for a moist texture without making it soggy. The stuffing should feel damp but not overly wet, as it will absorb more moisture inside the turkey while baking. Reserve any leftover broth in case you need it later.
Step 6: Toss to Evenly Moisten
Give the stuffing one final toss, ensuring that all pieces are evenly coated with the broth and seasoning mixture. This helps guarantee that every bite will be flavorful.
Stuffing and Prepping the Turkey
Step 7: Stuff the Turkey
Stuff the prepared stuffing mixture into the turkey cavity, packing it in firmly but not too tightly. Avoid overpacking, as this can prevent the stuffing from cooking evenly. If you have any leftover stuffing, you can place it in a separate casserole dish and bake it alongside the turkey during the last 45 minutes of cooking.
Step 8: Coat the Turkey with Butter
Using softened butter, rub a generous coating over the entire surface of the turkey. This will help achieve a beautifully golden, crispy skin. For extra color and flavor, sprinkle a little paprika over the top of the buttered turkey.
Step 9: Place Turkey in the Baking Bag
Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of flour into the Reynolds turkey-sized baking bag to prevent sticking and promote even browning. Carefully place the buttered and seasoned turkey into the bag, then close the bag tightly, leaving a little room for air circulation.
Step 10: Ventilate the Bag
Using a sharp knife, make three small slits (about 1-2 inches each) across the top of the bag for ventilation. Place the bagged turkey into a roasting pan.
Baking the Turkey
Step 11: Bake the Turkey
Place the roaster pan in the oven and bake the turkey according to the time recommended for the size of your bird. Generally, the baking bag reduces cooking time by about 45 minutes to an hour, so check periodically to avoid overcooking.
Note: The baking bag traps in moisture, making basting unnecessary. However, you may baste once or twice if you prefer.
Step 12: Check for Doneness
Once the turkey is done, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving, allowing the juices to redistribute and the stuffing to settle.
Step 13: Save the Broth for Gravy
Carefully open the bag and use a ladle or cup to save any broth accumulated in the bottom. This broth is perfect for making a flavorful gravy or can be stored for future use in soups and stews.
Tips for the Perfect Thanksgiving Stuffing
- Use Chicken Broth, Not Milk: While some people use milk to moisten stuffing, chicken broth adds a richer, more savory flavor.
- Don’t Overstuff the Turkey: Packing the stuffing too tightly can prevent it from cooking evenly. Leave some space for air circulation within the turkey cavity.
- Add Fresh Herbs if Available: Fresh parsley, sage, rosemary, or thyme can be substituted for dried herbs, bringing a burst of flavor to the stuffing.
- Bake Leftover Stuffing Separately: If you have extra stuffing, bake it in a casserole dish. Cover with foil to keep it moist, and bake alongside the turkey for the last 45 minutes.
FAQs About Thanksgiving Stuffing
1. Can I make the stuffing in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the bread mixture, sautéed vegetables, and seasonings up to one day in advance. Simply store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to stuff the turkey.
2. What can I use as a substitute for the Pepperidge Farm stuffing mix?
If you can’t find the Pepperidge Farm herbed stuffing, any seasoned bread crumbs will work. You can also toast and season your own bread cubes.
3. Can I bake the stuffing outside the turkey?
Absolutely. If you prefer a slightly crispier texture, bake the stuffing in a greased casserole dish at 350°F for about 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the stuffing is heated through.
4. Can I use homemade bread for the stuffing?
Yes, homemade bread adds great texture. Just make sure it’s a bit stale or dried out before using, as fresh bread can become too mushy.
5. How do I prevent the stuffing from being too dry?
Make sure to moisten the bread mixture adequately with chicken broth, aiming for a damp texture before stuffing the turkey. Check the stuffing’s moisture level periodically, and add more broth if necessary.
6. How can I make the stuffing vegetarian?
Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make this stuffing vegetarian. You can also add more herbs or mushrooms to boost the flavor.
This recipe for my mom’s perfect Thanksgiving stuffing is guaranteed to bring warmth and comfort to your holiday table. With a delicious blend of herbs, buttery sautéed vegetables, and a crispy exterior from baking, this stuffing is a holiday staple. Enjoy making memories with your family as you serve this time-honored dish!