A Delicious and Easy Guide to Thanksgiving Perfection in Just 60 Minutes!
Thanksgiving is all about gathering with loved ones, sharing gratitude, and, of course, indulging in unforgettable flavors. What could be more comforting and festive than a warm dish of buttery herb stuffing? This recipe is a perfect blend of soft bread, aromatic herbs, and rich butter, creating a dish that will leave your family asking for seconds. Even better, it’s designed to be simple and fun to prepare with kids. With just an hour of cooking and prep time, this recipe makes it easy to create delicious memories without spending all day in the kitchen.
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this flavorful stuffing. The list is organized for ease, so you can prepare your shopping or cooking station hassle-free:
Main Ingredients
- 10 cups of day-old bread, cubed (white or sourdough works great; opt for gluten-free bread if needed)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted (swap with dairy-free butter for a vegan option)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred for better control of saltiness)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Herbs & Spices
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon rosemary, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (adds a touch of sweetness)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for a crunchy texture)
- 1/2 cup cooked sausage (for a heartier variation)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking with kids? Get them involved in these fun, interactive steps that make kitchen time a joy for everyone.
Prep the Bread
1. Cubing the bread: Cut the day-old bread into small, bite-sized cubes. This is an easy and safe task for little hands to help with.
2. Drying the bread: Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and toast in a 250°F oven for 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until slightly crisp.
Sauté the Vegetables
3. Cook the aromatics: Melt 1/2 cup of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, stirring until softened (about 5–7 minutes).
4. Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients
5. Mix it up: In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables. Add the parsley, thyme, sage, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
6. Add liquid: Pour in the broth and the remaining melted butter. Let your kids help with gentle mixing to ensure the bread soaks up all the flavors.
Bake to Perfection
7. Transfer to a baking dish: Grease a 9x13-inch dish and pour in the stuffing mixture, spreading it evenly.
8. Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy top.
Estimated Cooking & Prep Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 60 minutes
This makes it a perfect recipe to fit into your busy family schedule while ensuring everyone enjoys the process.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a snapshot of the nutritional benefits this dish provides:
- Calories: 290 per serving
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Vitamin A: 8% of the daily recommended intake (from butter and parsley)
- Calcium: 4% of the daily recommended intake (enhanced if using fortified broth)
Kid-Friendly Serving Ideas
- Top with cranberries: Add a pop of color and sweetness by sprinkling dried cranberries on top before serving.
- Pair it up: Serve alongside roasted turkey or a creamy vegetable soup for a complete Thanksgiving feast.
- Stuffed peppers: Use leftovers to fill bell peppers for a fun twist on a weeknight meal.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for 15 minutes at 350°F to restore the crispy texture.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked stuffing for up to one month. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Cooking with your kids isn’t just about making a meal it’s about creating moments you’ll cherish forever. I hope this buttery herb stuffing becomes a family favorite in your home, just as it has in ours.
If you loved this recipe, don’t keep it a secret! Share it with your friends and family, or leave a comment with your personal twists. For more kid-friendly recipes and cooking inspiration, subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.
Cooking together is a gift and I can’t wait to see the joy it brings to your Thanksgiving table. Happy cooking!
