Bread Stuffing: The Ultimate Comfort Food

There is nothing quite like the comforting warmth of bread stuffing on a cold winter's day. This versatile dish is easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and can be customized with a variety of herbs and spices to suit your tastes.

What is Bread Stuffing?

Bread stuffing, also known as sage and onion stuffing, is a beloved side dish traditionally served during holiday dinners. It is made with cubed dry bread mixed with sautéed vegetables such as onions, celery, and herbs like sage and thyme. Poultry seasoning is often added for additional flavor, and chicken or vegetable broth is used to moisten the mixture.

How to Make Bread Stuffing

Making bread stuffing from scratch is easy and requires only a few basic ingredients. Here's how you can make delicious bread stuffing in just a few simple steps:

Ingredients:

  • 10 cups cubed dry bread
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1 tablespoon dried sage
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2-3 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  2. Spread the cubed bread out on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until lightly browned and crispy.
  3. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery and sauté until softened.
  4. Add the sage, thyme, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with the toasted bread cubes. Pour in enough broth to moisten the mixture, stirring well to combine.
  6. Transfer the stuffing to a baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on top.

Tips for Customizing Bread Stuffing

One of the best things about bread stuffing is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients to the basic recipe. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Add diced apples or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
  • Use cornbread instead of regular bread for a Southern twist on the classic recipe.
  • Stir in cooked sausage, bacon, or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
  • Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make a vegetarian version of the dish.
  • Make it spicy by adding diced jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Conclusion

Bread stuffing is a classic side dish that is easy to make and customizable to suit your tastes. It's the ultimate comfort food and can be enjoyed any time of year. Whether served alongside roasted turkey or as a standalone dish, bread stuffing is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and discover why it's a favorite among foodies and home cooks alike.