Old-Fashioned Bread Stuffing
Old-Fashioned Bread Stuffing is a classic side dish featuring tender bread cubes combined with savory onions, celery, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for holiday meals or family dinners, its warm, comforting flavors make it a versatile addition to any traditional table.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and stir chopped onion and celery in margarine or butter in a medium skillet over medium heat until tender.
- Stir in poultry seasoning, rubbed sage, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the cooked onion mixture to dried bread cubes in a large bowl.
- Pour water or broth over the bread cubes.
- Toss to mix and evenly distribute the seasonings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade broth instead of water. If you're out of poultry seasoning, a mix of thyme and oregano can serve as a substitute. For a vegetarian version, use vegan butter and vegetable broth. You can also add cooked sausage or nuts for extra texture and depth. Make sure to use stale bread for the best absorption.
Serving Suggestions
This Old-Fashioned Bread Stuffing pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or chicken. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, such as green beans or mashed potatoes. For a festive touch, consider adding cranberries or nuts to the stuffing for added flavor. It's also a great accompaniment to Steakhouse Baked Potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a baking dish, add a splash of broth to moisten, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. This helps retain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashioned Bread Stuffing contains roughly 1909 calories, with 59g protein, 409g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (446% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1262mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Simply complete the mixing process and store it in the refrigerator. Before serving, reheat it in the oven, adding a little broth if it appears dry.
What type of bread is best for stuffing?
Stale bread is ideal for stuffing because it absorbs moisture without becoming mushy. A mix of white bread and whole grain or sourdough can add both texture and flavor. Avoid fresh bread as it won't hold up well.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular bread cubes with gluten-free bread. There are many varieties available that work well in stuffing. Just ensure to use gluten-free broth and seasonings to keep the dish entirely gluten-free.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).