Old-Fashioned Poultry Stuffing Recipe: A Classic for Your Holiday Table
An old-fashioned poultry stuffing recipe brings a traditional touch to any holiday meal. Made with simple ingredients like bread, vegetables, broth, and savory seasonings, this dish pairs perfectly with roasted chicken or turkey, especially during Thanksgiving or Christmas. Whether you prefer to bake it inside the bird or separately, this hearty dish is packed with flavor. In this guide, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, variations, and more. Plus, we’ll include internal links to some other recipes that complement this stuffing.
Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Poultry Stuffing
The key to any good stuffing is using quality ingredients that blend together to create a flavorful and moist dish.
- Bread: You’ll need about 10 cups of cubed stale bread, such as white or sourdough.
- Butter: ½ cup of unsalted butter to sauté the vegetables and add richness.
- Onions and Celery: 2 onions and 3-4 stalks of celery, chopped for the aromatic base.
- Poultry Seasoning: 2 teaspoons of poultry seasoning (blend of sage, thyme, and rosemary).
- Chicken Broth: 2-3 cups to moisten the stuffing and give it depth of flavor.
- Eggs: 2 eggs to help bind the ingredients.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
For more comforting sides, you can check out this recipe for The Ultimate Comfort Food: Crockpot Potato Soup with Hashbrowns, a dish that goes perfectly with poultry stuffing during a family meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prepare the Bread
Start by cutting the bread into 1-inch cubes. Spread them out on a baking sheet and toast in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes to dry them out, which helps prevent sogginess. - Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and celery, and sauté until softened, about 8-10 minutes. - Mix the Stuffing Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, and poultry seasoning. Toss to evenly distribute the ingredients. - Add Broth and Eggs
Whisk the eggs and chicken broth together, then pour over the bread mixture. Gently toss until the bread absorbs the liquid. The stuffing should be moist but not too wet. - Bake the Stuffing
Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes to crisp up the top.
You might also enjoy serving this stuffing with Slow Cooker Magic: Unveiling the Ease of Crock-Pot Baked Ziti, another comforting dish perfect for family gatherings.
Tips for Perfect Stuffing
- Use Stale Bread: For the best texture, always use stale or toasted bread so it can absorb the broth without becoming mushy.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently toss the ingredients to ensure the stuffing stays light and fluffy.
- Adjusting the Moisture: If the stuffing feels too dry, add more broth before baking. If it’s too wet, bake uncovered for longer to let it dry out.
Variations on Traditional Poultry Stuffing
Stuffing is a versatile dish that can be adapted to different tastes. Here are some variations you might want to try:
- Sausage Stuffing: Add cooked, crumbled sausage for extra flavor and richness.
- Cornbread Stuffing: Swap out white bread for cornbread to give it a Southern twist.
- Fruit and Nut Stuffing: Add chopped apples, dried cranberries, or pecans for sweetness and texture.
For a unique side dish that pairs well with this stuffing, check out No-Peek Beef Tips: The Ultimate Comfort Food, another savory dish that can complement your holiday table.
FAQs About Poultry Stuffing
Q: What’s the difference between stuffing and dressing?
A: Stuffing is traditionally cooked inside the bird, while dressing is baked separately in a dish.
Q: Can I make stuffing ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the stuffing the day before and bake it right before serving.
Q: How do I keep stuffing from getting soggy?
A: Use stale bread, and be careful not to add too much broth. Bake the stuffing uncovered during the last 15 minutes to crisp up the top.
Q: Can I make gluten-free stuffing?
A: Yes, simply use gluten-free bread in place of traditional bread for a delicious gluten-free stuffing.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a general idea of the nutritional content for a typical serving of old-fashioned poultry stuffing:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
For a lighter option, try reducing the butter or using low-sodium chicken broth.
Serving Suggestions
This classic poultry stuffing pairs well with various dishes, making it a versatile side for any meal.
- Serve with Roasted Turkey or Chicken: Stuffing is traditionally served alongside a roasted turkey or chicken, especially during holiday meals.
- Pair with Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans to complete your dinner.
To complete your meal, consider adding Kentucky Butter Cake: A Slice of Southern Comfort for dessert. Its rich, buttery flavor is the perfect complement to savory stuffing.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storing Leftovers: Keep leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze stuffing for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until heated through.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven to keep them crispy, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Internal Linking Opportunities
For readers who enjoyed this stuffing recipe, we recommend trying these other comfort food recipes from ExoRecipes:
- Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Over Noodles: A savory, hearty dish that pairs well with stuffing.
- The Ultimate Comfort Food: Crockpot Potato Soup: A creamy soup perfect for cozy dinners.
- Kentucky Butter Cake: A rich dessert to end your meal on a sweet note.
Conclusion
This old-fashioned poultry stuffing recipe is the perfect addition to any holiday meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a classic dish that will delight your guests. Whether you bake it inside the bird or serve it as a side dish, stuffing remains a beloved comfort food for generations.
